Did you know?
Women’s health concerns can include birth control, family planning, diseases like endometriosis, infections, and much more. Dr. Tagbo J. Ekwonu at Eastowne Family Physicians, PA in Charlotte, North Carolina offers support and skilled care for women in the NoDa, Eastway, Plaza Midwood, and other areas of Charlotte, no matter what type of women’s health concerns or issues they may have. To make an appointment to discuss your women’s health needs, call our office, or use our convenient online scheduling tool.
What is included in an annual women’s health exam?
A women’s health exam is a yearly check-up that focuses on both general and reproductive health. During a women’s health exam, your blood pressure, weight, and pulse are measured. You may also need to provide a urine sample for testing during a women’s health exam. Dr. Ekwonu will also check your heart and your lungs.
Dr. Ekwonu will perform both a pelvic examination and a clinical breast exam during your yearly women’s health exam. If you’re on any medications, you’ll review those with Dr. Ekwonu during the exam. Contraception and family planning are also discussed during an annual women’s health exam. Other tests may be done, as needed.
Is a Pap smear part of a women’s health exam?
Yes, a Pap smear can be part of a women’s health exam, but it may not be done every year. Most healthy women only need a Pap smear once every three years, but your specific health concerns and health history may dictate more frequent testing. The Pap smear test takes just a few minutes and can easily be done as part of a pelvic exam.
What are your options for birth control?
Women have a wide range of options for birth control today. These include:
- Oral contraceptives (birth control pills)
- Birth control implant
- Intrauterine device
- Birth control injections
Other types of birth control are also available. Dr. Ekwonu will discuss your birth control wishes and your family planning goals with you to help you make the best choice.
What about STD testing?
During your women’s health exam — or at any other time that it’s needed — you can have STD testing for infections and diseases, including HIV and AIDS at Eastowne Family Physicians, PA. Dr. Ekwonu is highly experienced and skilled in the treatment of STDs and has specialized training in HIV and AIDS treatment.
How do you know when you are entering menopause?
Menopause can be different for each woman. Most women enter menopause in their 50s, but it can start earlier or later. If your menstrual cycles become erratic, you may be starting the transition into menopause (perimenopause.) Other symptoms include:
- Hot flashes
- Memory lapses
- Decrease in libido
- Mood swings
Dr. Ekwonu can help you deal with menopause symptoms effectively and is here to help. Use the online appointment tool, or call the office anytime to make an appointment with Dr. Ekwonu.