Routine physical exams are an important part of your preventive health care. That’s why Nurse Practitioner Miranda Kerley offers a variety of exams — including everything from Department of Transportation (DOT) exams to sports physicals to well-woman exams — here in Summerton, South Carolina.
Take a moment as the K & M Care team zeros in on the specifics of a well-woman exam.
A well-woman exam is a comprehensive check-up that focuses on preventive care, identifying potential health issues early, and addressing any concerns you may have. In most cases, women should schedule one per year, but you may need more frequent care if we detect problems during your exam.
During your well-woman exam, you can expect:
Your exam starts with a general health assessment. This includes:
Your general health assessment is important because it establishes a baseline. Having your baselines recorded helps Nurse Practitioner Kerley detect potential issues as soon as your numbers deviate from what’s normal for you.
For example, if your blood pressure starts to trend higher each year, our team can help you adopt lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to safely lower your blood pressure to — hopefully — avoid a hypertension diagnosis.
This portion of your well-woman exam focuses on your reproductive system. You can expect a breast exam, pelvic exam, and Pap smear.
Be prepared to share information about the regularity, duration, and symptoms (if any) of your menstrual periods. This information can help detect any issues that may contribute to irregular periods.
Or, if you’re not menstruating, let us know if you’re struggling with any symptoms of perimenopause or menopause.
Depending on your age, medical history, and risk factors, Nurse Practitioner Kerley may recommend various screenings or laboratory work, including mammograms, blood tests (to check glucose or thyroid levels), or sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing.
On-site X-rays and blood tests are available, so you won’t have to drive to a second location to get your labs drawn.
As a primary care provider, Nurse Practitioner Kerley looks at your health holistically, and that means she looks at the health of your whole person — including your mental health. She can answer screening questions to help spot the early signs of conditions like depression or anxiety.
Whether you need your annual flu shot or are unsure if you’re caught up with your other vaccines, your well-woman exam is a time to address these. The K & M Care team follows the adult immunization schedule set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
After your exam, our team helps you develop a personalized care plan. This may include:
While your exam is intended to prevent issues and spot any warning signs early, it’s also a time to check on your current treatment plans for chronic issues. As a primary care practice, the K & M Care team is your partner in managing chronic conditions like asthma, arthritis, or mental health disorders.
During your exam, you have a chance to ask questions, address concerns, and reflect on your current treatment plan. In fact, we encourage you to ask questions! Bring a list with you, so you don’t have to worry about remembering each one.
If you’d like to schedule your well-woman exam, give us a call at 803-373-5399, or click here to get started.
