Take a Pass on Annual Pelvic Exams?

For many women, the yearly trip to the doctor for a pelvic exam causes anxiety and discomfort. Now new guidelines from the American College of Physicians may allow you to skip the stirrups this year.

Annual pelvic exams may not be necessary for healthy women who aren’t pregnant and have no symptoms of a potential problem. The reason? There’s no good evidence a routine exam benefits healthy women.

It’s important to note that many gynecologists and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) continue to recommend yearly check-ups as a way for providers to explore all aspects of a woman’s health, including her need for tests to screen for cervical and breast cancer. Ask your doctor whether a routine pelvic exam is necessary for you and find out the possible benefits and risks.

Are you ready to take charge of your health? Visit the ACOG website for more information about women’s annual check-ups.