Women's Health FAQs
What does women’s health care include?
Women’s health care includes preventive visits, gynecologic care, breast health services, contraception counseling, pregnancy related care and support for many health concerns throughout life. Services may vary by location, and your care team can explain what is available at this hospital and when a referral is recommended.
How often should I have a women’s wellness visit?
Most women benefit from a wellness visit about once a year, but the exact timing depends on your age, health history and risk factors. Some screenings, such as cervical or breast cancer screenings, may be recommended at different intervals than your yearly visit, based on current guidelines and your provider’s recommendations.
What can I expect during a women’s health appointment?
Your visit usually starts with a conversation about your health history, current concerns, medications and preventive care needs. Depending on your reason for coming in, your provider may recommend an exam, such as a breast or pelvic exam, screening tests or follow-up care.
What screenings are part of women’s preventive care?
Preventive care may include screenings based on your age, personal and family health history, and risk factors. These often include cervical cancer screening (Pap or HPV testing), breast cancer screening (such as mammograms), bone health checks, and lab work or other tests your provider recommends for your overall wellness.
Who provides women’s health care at this hospital?
Women’s health care may be provided by obstetrician gynecologists (OBGYNs), family medicine or internal medicine providers, nurse practitioners, midwives, or other specialists. Our team can help you find a provider who matches your needs and preferences.
Can women’s health care support different stages of life?
Yes. Women’s health care can support your needs at many stages, including adolescence and young adulthood, pregnancy and postpartum, midlife, and after menopause. Your provider can help with preventive care, new or changing symptoms, and questions that come up as your health needs evolve.
When should I schedule a women’s health visit outside of my regular exam?
You should schedule a women’s health visit any time you have new symptoms or questions, even if it is not time for your next routine exam. This includes concerns like unusual bleeding, pelvic or breast pain, new breast changes, questions about birth control, planning a pregnancy, changes related to menopause, or worries about sexually transmitted infections or other intimate health issues. If symptoms are sudden, severe or feel like an emergency, seek urgent or emergency care.
Can I access my test results online?
At many locations, you can view some or all of your test results through a secure patient portal once they are available and shared by your care team. If you are not enrolled in the portal or do not see your results, contact your provider’s office so they can explain how results are shared and help you get the information you need.