Women’s Health – WHA-Aiken

We have been using digital mammography since 2005. The images are stored electronically at an offsite facility. These images are recalled from year to year when you come in for a mammogram. They can be printed in case of need for consultation or in the event that you move to another city. We have a CAD (Computer Aided Detection) system to assist the radiologists in reading your images.

Our technologists are specialty trained in digital mammography and our lead mammographer has 17 years of experience. Our mammogram unit is located in our healthcare facility to make it convenient to coordinate your exam and mammogram at the same visit. We also have Bone Density and Ultrasound available when needed to provide diagnostic testing. Our facility is certified by the American College of Radiology and DHEC.

There has been much debate about pap testing on a yearly basis. Dr. Besson is aware of current recommendations from the American Cancer Society; however, she believes that patients are individuals and should be treated as such when it comes to their health care. She does believe that a yearly pap smear renders very valuable information at a cost that is relatively low. It has been our experience with our patient population that performing pap smears on a 3 year basis could be detrimental to one’s health; therefore, we continue to recommend pap smears on a yearly basis but if you have concerns Dr. Besson will discuss this further with you and make a final determination.

Recommendations

A yearly mammogram is recommended starting at age 40 and continuing for your lifetime.
Self breast exams are recommended monthly, and a clinical breast exam is done on a yearly basis with your annual exam.
A rectal exam to screen for blood in your stool is done with your annual exam starting at age 40.
Cervical cancer screening (pap test) varies depending on the patient but in most instances, it is recommended by Dr. Besson on a yearly basis.
Bone Density Screening is done at the time of menopause and every 2 to 3 years following that. There are certain instances that require screening before menopause occurs. Your medical history will be obtained to determine if you are a candidate for early testing.
Ultrasound can be done to evaluate pelvic pain and early pregnancy. It is also a tool that can be used to investigate for endometrial or ovarian cancer.
It is important for you to be knowledgeable about your family’s medical history. A Family History profile is obtained during your annual exam to determine your risk for hereditary breast, ovarian and certain other cancers. If you are found to be at increased risk for these cancers genetic testing will be offered to you.