08/04/2026
Answering Patient Question of the Week below!
- Do I really need an annual physical?
Yes! Annual physicals help catch health concerns early, keep you up to date on screenings, and give you time to discuss any changes or questions. Prevention is always easier than treatment.
- How often should I have blood work done?
It depends on your age, health history, medications, and risk factors. Some people need labs every year, while others don't. The goal is to order the right labs not unnecessary ones.
- What's the difference between urgent care and primary care?
Urgent care treats one-time illnesses or injuries. Primary care focuses on your long-term health by preventing disease, managing chronic conditions, and getting to know you over time.
- What are the first signs of perimenopause?
Common signs include irregular periods, poor sleep, hot flashes, mood changes, brain fog, and weight changes. Symptoms can start years before menopause.
- What's the difference between a Pap smear and a pelvic exam?
A Pap smear screens for cervical cancer. A pelvic exam checks the health of your reproductive organs. They're different tests but are often done during the same visit.
- Do I still need a Pap smear if I feel healthy?
Yes! Pap smears are meant to find changes before symptoms develop. Feeling healthy is exactly why routine screening is so important.
- How do I know if my hormones are changing?
Changes like irregular periods, fatigue, mood swings, hot flashes, poor sleep, and brain fog can all be signs. If something feels different and lingers, it's worth talking about.
- Is weight gain during menopause inevitable?
Not inevitable but can be common. Hormonal changes can make it easier to gain weight, but healthy habits and the right plan can make a big difference.
- Are hot flashes something I just have to live with?
No. There are several treatment options that can help. You don't have to simply "deal with it."
- Can my primary care provider manage menopause, or do I need a specialist?
Menopause isn't a major focus in every primary care practice, but it's a big part of what we do at VirtualMed Iowa. From your first symptoms through postmenopause, we're here to help you understand your options and feel like yourself again.
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