From the Research
Well-woman exams are recommended for females 13 years of age and older, as well as pregnant females of any age, according to the most recent guidelines. The age criteria for a well-woman exam are based on the preventive services recommendations that apply to females of different age groups.
- The Well-Woman Chart, developed by the Women's Preventive Services Initiative, provides clinical guidance for screening, counseling, and other recommended preventive services for women during health care visits based on age, pregnancy status, and risk factors 1.
- The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends against screening pelvic examinations in asymptomatic women, while the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force found insufficient evidence to make a recommendation for or against screening pelvic examinations 2.
- The components of the well-woman exam may vary depending on the patient's age, risk factors, and physician preference, but generally include a pelvic examination, Pap smear, breast examination, and discussion of reproductive health.
- Pap smears are generally recommended every 3 years for women ages 21-29, and every 5 years (with HPV co-testing) for women 30-65, while breast examinations are recommended annually, with mammograms typically starting at age 40 or 50 depending on risk factors.
- The well-woman exam also provides an opportunity to address contraception needs, STI screening, and other preventive health measures like blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screening.
- Individual risk factors may warrant earlier or more frequent screening based on personal and family medical history, and the most recent guidelines should be consulted to determine the best course of care for each patient 2.