Q: I have never done an annual check-up but am about to go for my first one. What can I expect?
A: There is no one way of conducting a routine annual check-up. For individualised care, a medical history, physical examination and bedside and laboratory screening tests are used by health-care providers to determine the type of care or management required.
It is also important to be honest about the extent to which you consume alcohol, exercise and smoke.
A physical exam should be head to toe and include a breast exam for abnormal lumps which may or may not be malignant. It is advised to practise the self-breast exam at this stage so the health provider can assist to improve your skill for the monthly self-check.
A pelvic exam is done to check the health of the vulva, vagina, cervix, testicular lumps, hernias, penile and prostate exam. As with the breast, the testicular self-check is recommended. An ultrasound to examine the uterus and ovaries may be performed and a pap smear and STI screening tests can be done at this stage.
You may need a checkup:
• To manage chronic or ongoing conditions.
• To check on the effects of your medication.
• To help with risk factors like cardiovascular disease and smoking.
• Safer sex methods and management of sexually transmitted infections.
• If you are pregnant and require information regarding your options.
• For counselling or therapy.
• For gender affirming hormone therapy.
You should mention any complaints or concerns about your sexual health. Your health-care provider may not necessarily ask direct questions about libido, performance, use of enhancement supplements or sexual pleasure, for example, unless you bring it up. The main reason why doctors still encourage an annual check-up even in those who are healthy, is that the consultation provides an opportunity to discuss prevention and wellness concerns for your particular needs.
• Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng (MBChB), sexual and reproductive health practice, Disa Clinic, safersex.co.za.
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