Women’s Health

What is women’s health?

Women’s health is an area of medical practice focused primarily on addressing issues related to your reproductive health. That said, your gynecologist is also an excellent resource for advice on things like heart health, stress management, and sleep disruptions, all of which play an essential role in your overall health and wellness. 

Some of the health issues that women can encounter as they move through the phases of life include:

• Adolescent gynecology
• Birth control
• Abnormal bleeding
• Pelvic pain
• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Fertility issues
• Menopause
• Vaginal dryness
• Gynecologic cancers

Working with a great women’s health provider ensures you get the screenings you need to stay healthy and have access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment platforms if needed. 

Why are well-woman exams so important?

Well-woman exams are an integral part of preventive health and the setting at which you’ll receive your women’s health services. These visits are tailored to your age and overall health needs. 

Well-woman exams include screenings for common gynecologic conditions. A pelvic exam is part of the process and provides your gynecologist the chance to visually inspect your cervical and vaginal tissues for signs of abnormality. Pap smear testing is done periodically to screen for cervical cancer. 

Your well-woman exam also includes a professional breast exam, and you can learn techniques for checking your breasts on your own, at home. There is also time built in to discuss any changes you’ve noticed since your last visit or to ask questions about any aspect of women’s health and wellness. 

How often should I come in for well-woman exams?

Most women benefit from coming in for an annual well-woman exam. The areas of focus during these visits will shift and change as you move through the phases of life. 

For example, adolescent gynecology visits don’t necessarily need to include a pelvic exam unless the teen is sexually active. These early visits focus on building a trusting bond between patient and practitioner and educating young women on aspects of sexual health, birth control, and abnormal bleeding. 

When you near pregnancy, you might want to focus more on fertility care and preparing your body for pregnancy and childbirth. After becoming a mother, you might want information on a new type of birth control or post-natal depression. 

When menopause arrives, many women have questions and concerns about what to expect and how to navigate this time of transition. Once menopause has passed, you may need less frequent Pap smear testing. 

When you’re ready to book a well-woman exam, options include online scheduling and reaching out to the office by phone.