Women Need Special Checkups

Going for a Pap test, a breast exam, and a pelvic exam is important, but it is probably not your favorite thing to do. You may feel nervous. Many women do. Sometimes it helps if you know what to expect.

Q. What does the doctor check for?

A. The doctor checks your breasts with his or her hands to feel for lumps that might be cancer. The pelvic exam and the Pap test check for problems such as cervical cancer. Your doctor also checks for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The doctor will probably say you are just fine, but you need these tests to make sure. If there is a problem, the sooner you know about it, the sooner you can get treatment.

Q. Does a pelvic exam hurt?

A. Not really. Your doctor uses a small instrument to open your vagina and look inside. Then the doctor uses fingers on one hand to press inside your vagina while using the other hand to press down on your belly. The doctor does this to check your internal organs. You will feel pressure, but it should not hurt. You can ask the doctor to tell you what he or she is doing.

Q. Can I talk about my private life?

A. What you say is private between you and your doctor. Your doctor asks about your body and your sex life. Your honest answers help you get the best health care.

If you need help finding a Keystone Mercy doctor or making an appointment, please call Member Services at 1-800-521-6860. You can also go to Keystone Mercy’s provider directory to find a doctor.