Is It Time for Your Well-Woman Exam? 5 Reasons Not to Delay

Life gets busy with work, family, stress, and a million other priorities that can easily push preventive care to the bottom of the list. But if it’s been a while since your last well-woman exam, postponing it may cost you more than you realize. 

Dr. Andrea Das, Dr. Louisa Griggs, Dr. Djamilia Kryukov, and Dr. Patricia Tagamolila at Advanced OB/GYNE Associates agree that annual visits aren’t just routine checkups — they’re one of the most important ways to protect your long-term health. So, if you’ve been putting yours off, here are five compelling reasons to schedule your well-woman exam sooner rather than later. 

1. Preventive screenings catch problems early 

One of the biggest benefits of a well-woman exam is early detection. Many serious health conditions don’t cause noticeable symptoms at first, but screenings can identify issues before they become more complicated. Your exam may include: 

• Pap smear or human papilloma virus (HPV) testing
• Breast exam
• Pelvic exam
• Blood pressure and weight checks 
• Lab work, if needed 

Catching abnormalities early often means simpler treatment, better outcomes, and far less stress down the line. 

2. Your body changes even if you feel ‘fine’

Hormones, cycles, and reproductive health don’t stay static. Even if you feel healthy, subtle changes may be happening beneath the surface. A well-woman exam helps monitor: 

• Menstrual cycle changes
• Hormonal shifts (perimenopause, menopause) 
• Changes in vaginal or pelvic health
• New or evolving symptoms you may have normalized 

Many women dismiss symptoms as just stress or part of getting older. Your exam is a chance to find out what’s normal and what deserves attention. 

3. It’s a safe space to talk about things you’ve been avoiding

Whether it’s painful periods, pain during sex, low libido, bladder changes, or mood shifts, various concerns are common but often left unspoken. Your well-woman exam is the perfect time to discuss such things as: 

• Pelvic pain or discomfort
• Painful or irregular periods
• Vaginal dryness or irritation
• Changes in sexual desire
• Urinary issues
• PMS, anxiety, or mood changes 

Nothing is too awkward or insignificant. These conversations help us understand the full picture of your health and offer solutions you may not realize are available. 

4. It helps you stay ahead of long-term health risks 

Well-woman exams aren’t just about reproductive health; they support your overall wellness at every stage of life. Depending on your age and history, we may assess your: 

• Bone health
• Cardiovascular risk 
• Hormone-related changes
• Family history of cancer or chronic illness 
• Lifestyle factors affecting long-term health 

This visit allows our team to personalize recommendations that help protect your health now and in the future. 

5. Skipping appointments often leads to bigger problems 

Delaying care doesn’t make potential issues disappear; it often allows them to progress quietly. What could have been a simple fix may turn into something more complex if left unchecked. By staying consistent with exams, you: 

• Reduce the risk of advanced disease
• Avoid unnecessary anxiety later
• Build a trusting relationship with our team
• Keep your health history up to date
• Feel more confident and informed about your body 

Prevention truly is one of the most powerful tools in health care. 

In the end, your well-woman exam is more than an annual appointment; it’s an investment in your health, confidence, and peace of mind. If it’s been a while, why wait longer? Call us at 847-755-1111 or use our online booking tool to request an appointment today. We have offices in Arlington Heights and Hoffman Estates, Illinois.