We have moved three times in a year and it's time for my annual. In fact, it's past time. I use my second son's six week post partum visit as my gauge for when it's time. I am very good about going in each year but am struggling with going in this year. My new doc is very good at the science of medicine but does not have a very good bedside manner. I don't care if a male or female conducts my annual but for some reason I'm now leaning towards a female this visit! Wierd, I know!

Do you go each year? Is it bad to skip a year?

It can be bad to skip it, your risks increase as you get older. My MD found a lump in my breast when I was 34. I have not had insurance in 6 yrs, my income puts me way over the limit for medical assistance, I make $43 a year too much to get any reduced rates for low income individuals.... so I have not had an annual in 6 yrs. I really need to budget a visit in soon, I feel like I am playing Russian Roulette with my body.

Thanks for the reminder, I have always been very good about it. My favorite dr. who delivered both of my boys changed offices and no longer takes our insurance. I did not like the Dr. I chose last year. I need to get on the phone and try again Writing on my to do list for this week!

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Personally, I never ever miss my annual exam. Simply, because I am scared to death of what may happen if I don't. My family has a huge cancer risk, as a lot of my mother's cousins have had either breast or cervical, and my great-grandma on her side had a double mastectomy years ago. So, I go out of shear fear of getting cancer of that form(s). It is easy to forget to go, or just let life get in the way. I used to not have insurance, and for those who don't, it might benefit you to have that kind of emergency fund set aside so you will be able to pay for your visit. That's what I had to do, just so I wouldn't have to put it on a credit card.
Now, with insurance, I still pay $50 co-pay, since my ob/gyn is a "specialist" according to my insurance company. I go to a female, and I think she's great. Most females have a better bedside manner than males, but of course, there are exceptions to that. I just like to hear my options about things from a woman's standpoint.
Anyway, if I were you, I'd get in ASAP, especially if you have a similar family history that mine has, as far as cancer goes. Hurry, don't wait!

I haven't been in two years. I'll go this fall after the kids are back in school.

Yes...I always go to my OB/GYN for my annual exam, I also get an annual physical from my GP.

Even I go, Christy, and you know my luck with OB/GYNs! I, too, use my youngest's six week post partum as the reminder. I went to a new OB/GYN this year, but since 2004, my FP has been doing my exams. I get an annual physical from them, too.

I always go. I too had a new dr this year. I really don't care who does it, I just call and said to have whoever was available. She was pretty good. I have to go for a mamogram (every year after age 40!) on Aug 1st and I need to call and schedule a fasting cholesterol test.

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I have to admit that this time I am late. Partly because of our move, and the indecision as to where I want to go...an hour away, or a new Dr. closer (new dr. may not be in our ins plan ). I normally an VERY VERY on the ball with going. I am a carrier of the HPV virus and have had many abnormal paps. In the past I have even been on a 6 mth routine ~ blech! Last check everything was clean and normal, but that's been a yr ago....I really need to get in.

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Funny you mention this...I got the post card reminder(from Dr's office) last week and haven't called for my appointment. I am usually very good about it, but I just haven't called yet... (not saying i won't just saying I haven't....)

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