Annual Well-Woman Visit
One unhurried visit a year to screen, prevent and plan. Dr. Hema Jonnalagadda reviews your health at your stage of life and builds a screening schedule that fits your age, history and risk.
More than a Pap test
Your visit follows the Women's Preventive Services Initiative (WPSI) recommendations, personalized to you.
Cervical cancer screening
Pap and/or HPV testing at the interval right for your age and history.
Breast cancer screening
Clinical breast exam and a mammogram plan based on your age and family history.
Contraception
Review of your current method, or options if you want to change or start one.
STI and HIV screening
Confidential testing and prevention counseling when appropriate.
Anxiety and well-being
A brief screen for anxiety and depression, with resources if you need support.
Urinary incontinence
Leaking with a cough, sneeze or urge is common and treatable. We ask so you don't have to bring it up.
Healthy weight in midlife
For women 40 to 60, practical nutrition and activity guidance to prevent weight gain.
Immunizations
HPV, flu, Tdap and other vaccines reviewed based on age and risk.
Safety at home
Private screening for intimate partner and domestic violence, with confidential resources.
Typical screening schedule
General guidance for average-risk women. Your schedule may differ based on your history; we confirm it with you at each visit.
| Age | Cervical screening | Breast screening | Also discussed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13–20 | Not routinely needed | Breast awareness | HPV vaccine, periods, contraception, STI prevention |
| 21–29 | Pap test every 3 years | Breast awareness, clinical exam | Contraception, STI testing, pre-pregnancy planning |
| 30–39 | HPV test every 5 years, or Pap every 3 | Risk assessment; earlier mammogram if high risk | Fertility questions, cycle changes |
| 40–64 | HPV test every 5 years, or Pap every 3 | Mammogram every 1–2 years | Perimenopause, bone health, weight, colon screening from 45 |
| 65+ | May stop after normal prior results | Continue mammograms through 74 | Bone density, bladder health, menopause care |
How to prepare
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Bring your history
Medication list, past Pap results, and any family history of breast, ovarian, uterine or colon cancer.
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Write down concerns
Period changes, pain, bladder symptoms, low libido or mood. No question is too small.
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Check timing
Avoid scheduling during a heavy period if a Pap test is due. Fill out patient forms ahead of time.
Good to know: the annual visit focuses on prevention. New symptoms or problems that need workup, such as abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain, may be scheduled as a separate visit so each gets the time it deserves.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a well-woman visit if I don't need a Pap test this year?
Yes. Pap tests are only one part of the visit. Breast health, contraception, bladder health, vaccines, mental health and menopause planning are reviewed every year.
Is the annual visit covered by insurance?
Most plans cover one preventive well-woman visit per year at no cost to you. If other problems are addressed, a separate charge may apply. See Insurance & Billing.
At what age should my daughter have her first visit?
ACOG recommends a first gynecology visit between ages 13 and 15. It is usually a conversation, not an internal exam. See Adolescent Gynecology.
I'm past menopause. Do I still need to come every year?
Yes. Breast cancer, bone loss, bladder and vaginal changes become more common after menopause, and any bleeding after menopause should be checked.
Due for your annual visit?
Schedule with Dr. Hema Jonnalagadda, MD at 115 Plymouth Road, Suite 5, Plymouth Meeting.
