Most women are aware of the importance of gynecological health, and yet many do not realize an annual check-up includes more than just a Pap smear. The majority of females in the United States count on obstetricians and gynecology specialists to monitor their health and use their services in lieu of visiting a general physician. An OB-GYN can perform a number of health-monitoring procedures, and there is a basic checklist that most people will undergo when visiting this type of doctor. Although this is not a replacement for seeking treatment or a regular check-up from a family doctor, an annual check-up from a doctor specializing in obstetrics and gynecology is imperative to a woman's overall health.

What To Expect From An Annual Physical

There are certain tests and examinations recommended by the Committee on Gynecologic Practice of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), which are updated regularly. The latest recommendations by the committee are as follows:

Beginning at age 13, all females should be evaluated for current heath status, nutrition, sexual behavior, use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs and physical activity.

Women will also be measured for height, weight, Body Mass Index (BMI) and their blood pressure will be monitored. From age 19-64, all women should be tested for HIV.

At the age of 19, women can expect breast and abdominal examinations.

The ACOG recommends that women at age 21 and every year after receive Pap smears.

Sexually active women, no matter their age, should be tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea up to age 25.

A baseline mammogram should be obtained at age 40, although the OB-GYN specialist may recommend a baseline mammogram be done earlier if there is a family history of breast cancer.

In addition to these guidelines, a woman can expect vaccination recommendations for such conditions as measles, the HPV virus, the flu and Hepatitis A and B. Depending on risk factors, a lipid panel to evaluate cholesterol levels and a thyroid blood test may also be recommended.

Obstetrics and gynecology visits encompass much more than a woman's sexual health. As a woman becomes interested in bearing children, the obstetrics and gynecology visits help to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy. They also are important to maintain overall health and to help diagnose a myriad of possible health problems. Young women should be encouraged to visit a doctor at an early age, since early detection of any disease leads to earlier treatment and better options.