Starting at age 21, a woman should have a wellness exam every year which includes a breast and pelvic exam. This may or may not include a pap smear depending on your age, risk factors, pap history and the type of pap smear done.

Pap smears generally start at age 21 but may be done earlier if you are sexually active. Mammograms start at age 40 for low-risk individuals. Colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer is recommended starting at age 45. Bone density to screen for osteoporosis starts at age 50. Blood work is generally done every 1-2 years to screen for many disorders including high cholesterol, diabetes and thyroid disease.

It is up to you and what you are comfortable with. Both can perform a routine physical. It is important to make sure your insurance company will cover two physicals if you chose to see them both in a year.

Gynecologists are trained in evaluating breast lesions. We would have you come in for an appointment to let us assess this and order the appropriate surgeon for further management.

This is a personal choice and individualized for every patient. Hormone therapy is for quality of life and may not be appropriate for everyone. We are knowledgeable of all the various types of hormone therapy including bioidentical, compounded and hormone pellets.

There are several you can discuss with your provider including some natural over-the-counter products as well as prescriptions aimed at your specific symptoms.

If you are low risk, the current guideline is every 1-2 years starting at age 40 and then yearly at age 50. This may be adjusted based on your personal and family history.

Start taking a prenatal vitamin if not already doing so, preferably one with DHA. Avoid alcohol, tobacco and limit your caffeine intake to no more than 1 serving daily. You should also avoid raw meat and fish. It is not recommended you stop prescription medications without consulting a physician first. You my continue your normal activities and exercise but high-impact exercise should be cut back. We recommend your first visit around 8-10 weeks from the last menstrual period or earlier if you are having issues.

Make sure you are getting adequate calcium and vitamin D. Natural calcium sources like dairy are best, but you may take a supplement if necessary. Vitamin D comes from sunlight so many patients are low unless they work outdoors. 2000IU of vitamin D3 is recommended to maintain a normal level. Smoking and caffeine can both worsen bone loss. Finally, weight bearing exercise, 30 minutes, 3 times a week will help maintain stronger bones.

Not necessarily. Generally, only 50% of couples trying to conceive will have succeeded by this point. However, it is also appropriate to see your provider and make sure there are no other factors that may need to be addressed depending on how anxious you are.

There are many factors that affect the frequency and duration of a cycle. Generally, evaluation is recommended if your cycles have changed dramatically or you skip for longer than three months. We would also recommend addressing cycles that are excessively long or heavy or affect your quality of life.