The annual exam is a special yearly exam just for women. It usually includes a pelvic exam and breast exam in addition to checking your weight, blood pressure, and health history. Sometimes, it includes testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The annual exam is a great time to ask any questions you have about sex, birth control, health concerns like weight, quitting smoking, or STDs. At Public Health Family Planning clinics, your annual exam is always done by a female health provider.

What is a pelvic exam?

The pelvic exam is an important part of your annual exam. It is a way for your health provider to check your female organs and make sure they are healthy. The exam is usually not painful, but it may sometimes be a little uncomfortable. During the exam, you will be tested for cervical cancer (this is called a Pap test and sometimes STDs.

What is a breast exam?

The breast exam is another important part of your annual exam. Your health provider will check your breasts for any unusual lumps or changes that could signal cancer. Your provider will also talk to you about the importance of checking your own breasts every month. This is called breast self-exam (BSE). Women who do monthly BSEs have a much better chance of finding breast cancer early, while it's still very treatable. BSE is easy and only takes a few minutes. Click here to learn how.

Men, regardless of age, sexual orientation, or ability to pay are always welcome at Public Health Family Planning clinics -- as clients or as the partner/friend of a client.

What is a male exam?

The male exam is an exam of a man's reproductive organs (penis and testicles) to assess health. During the exam, the health provider will check your weight, blood pressure, and health history. The health provider will also screen for testicular cancer. Sometimes, the exam includes testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The male exam is a great time to ask questions about sex, birth control, health concerns like quitting tobacco, or how to prevent STDs.