Yearly Appointments & GYN Care FAQ
Thanks for checking our website! Here are some answers to our most common Frequently Asked Questions about Yearly Appointments and GYN Care.
If you have a question that is not addressed here, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you!
Do I need my medical records from a different doctor?
If you are coming to see Dr. Richmond for a specific issue, and you have seen other doctors for that same issue, then yes, please make sure your records are sent to us or bring them in with you when you come.
At what age do you begin having a PAP smear?
The usual recommendation to begin PAP smears is at age 21; however this may be individually determined by Dr. Richmond.
How old do I have to be to have a mammogram?
Dr. Richmond recommends a baseline mammogram between the ages of 35 and 40, then a mammogram each year after age 40.
As a GYN patient, how often should I see my doctor?
You should be evaluated at least annually by Dr. Richmond. Also, for health issues needing intermittent therapy, please keep your scheduled appointments! Although a PAP smear test may not be done every year, either due to age considerations or because of hysterectomy, you still need to schedule to see Dr. Richmond annually to assess female issues and for annual exam.
What is included in my yearly appointment?
Typically, we do a pelvic exam, PAP smear and breast exam for your yearly GYN appointment. If you have addition health concerns, please make sure your nurse knows your questions or concerns before seeing your doctor so that she can make him aware.
At age 40, we will schedule a mammogram for each yearly visit- that cannot be accomplished the same day unless we are able to plan ahead.
Around the age of 60, Dr. Richmond will request that we add a bone density scan to your yearly visit, doing those scans every other year in frequency.
The frequency of all exams and diagnostics may be adjusted to your individual health history and needs, as directed by your physician.