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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Female -- Ob/Gyn Visits > What does the doctor check for during annual gyn exam?
Posted on: 03/27/2003
Question
Some people say that getting your annual test for sexually transmitted diseases..some people say they only test for cevical cancer.... do different doctor check for different things when you get an annual?
Answer
When sexually active women (or women older than 18) get their annual gyn exam, the clinician usually only does a pap smear, which is checking for cervical cancer. Unless there is a sign of infection or the woman requests a test for a sexually transmitted infection, none are ususlly done, although many people screen for chlamydia in sexually active women under the age of 25. Your clinician will usually discuss these options, but if she doesn't you should ask, especially if you are worried.