What services are included in gynecologic care?
The physicians at The Association for Women’s Health Care specialize in obstetrics and gynecology. While obstetrics is all about medical care of women during pregnancy and childbirth, gynecology concentrates on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of issues related to your reproductive health.
The comprehensive gynecologic care available at The Association for Women’s Health Care includes:
- Birth control
- Treatment of gynecologic disorders such as endometriosis and fibroids
- Treatment of incontinence and pelvic floor disorders
- Adolescent gynecology
- Gynecologic surgery
- Colposcopy and biopsy of the cervix
- HPV screening and treatment
- Menopause care
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Infertility evaluation and treatment
Why is a yearly well woman exam so important?
A well woman exam is a regular gynecologic exam that’s focused on preventive care. Like other types of preventive checkups, the goal is to identify a potential problem while it can be prevented or easily treated.
During a well woman exam, you’ll receive some or all of the following services:
- Breast exam
- Pelvic exam with Pap smear
- Blood tests, if needed
- Mammogram
- Screening for osteoporosis
- Screening for chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure
- Family planning, including preconception counseling and birth control
- Testing for sexually transmitted diseases
- Counseling about diet and nutrition
- Women’s health education
- Immunizations
While most women should get a yearly gynecologic checkup, the frequency of your well woman exam depends on your overall health and whether you’re at a higher risk for gynecologic problems. If it’s been longer than a year since your last checkup, contact The Association for Women’s Health Care to schedule an appointment for your preventive exam.
When should you seek medical help for a gynecologic problem?
Please don’t hesitate to call us any time you have a question about your health, but be sure to schedule an appointment if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Bleeding between periods or prolonged, heavier-than-normal bleeding
- Frequent and urgent need to urinate or burning sensation during urination
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially during or after intercourse
- Pain or pressure in your pelvis that’s not menstrual cramps
- Itching, burning, or soreness in vaginal area
- Sores or lumps in genital area
- Vaginal discharge with unpleasant odor or unusual color
- Pain or discomfort during intercourse
