Dr. Adam Nickel, your OBGYN in Tacoma, Washington stresses the importance of the pelvic exam for preventive care.
We focus on preventive care to protect our patients and Tacoma families. The annual women’s visit plays an important role in prevention. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that women should have an annual OB/GYN exam whether they need a Pap smear or not.
Why come see our Tacoma Obstetrics and Gynecology office for an annual visit?
Many women’s health issues, such as cervical or breast cancer, have the highest rate of successful treatment when identified early. Many of these medical problems can be caught and diagnosed during an annual gynecological exam, even before symptoms of the condition are present. Coming into see Dr. Adam Nickel, Tacoma’s OBGYN, keeps you on top of health concerns and gives you peace of mind. Additionally, Nickel Obstetrics and Gynecology can help you sort out issues related to birth control, breast health and sexual and menstrual issues. It is important to come in annually to keep small problems from turning into more complicated issues.
The exam can also include information on which vaccinations are recommended, by age and risk groups, including the flu shot, Hepatitis A and B, human papillomavirus (HPV), and measles. Annual testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea is recommended for all sexually active adolescents and young women up to age 25. Routine HIV testing is recommended for all sexually active adolescents and women beginning at age 19 until age 64. For women who are experiencing menopause and pre-menopausal symptoms, the annual exam is an important opportunity to talk about managing symptoms and hormone treatment options in addition to supplements and prevention of osteoporosis.
Dr. Adam Nickel also values the annual visit as an opportunity to check in with his patients, discuss new health concerns or worries, address new family events, stresses or joys and ultimately connect and build a relationship. Cultivating relationships is an important part of Dr. Nickel’s Tacoma OBGYN practice, so he can read his patients and help them be at their best.