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Women have specific health needs that are different from men’s, which is why women’s health screenings are vital to their reproductive and sexual health. At Puget Sound Medical Associates, the team offers women’s health screenings to any woman in the Edmonds, Washington, community. Pap smears, birth control options, and breast cancer screenings are just a few of the offerings at the practice. To schedule an appointment for a women’s health exam, call the Puget Sound Medical Associates team today or request a consultation on the website.
Why is women’s health important?
Women’s health exams are an essential aspect of every woman’s physical, mental, and reproductive health. Women are at risk for certain diseases, such as breast cancer, cervical cancer, and HPV.
During a women’s health exam, the team evaluates your reproductive health, which includes a breast exam, pelvic exam, and a review of your sexual history. If you’re thinking about getting pregnant, the women’s health exam is the perfect time to discuss any obstacles you’re dealing with and your overall health.
After menopause, a women’s health exam addresses the specific needs of women as their hormone levels change. Osteoporosis is a real risk, along with mental health concerns and certain types of cancer.
When do I need a women’s health exam?
Pap smears are a vital part of a women’s health exam. According to the CDC, women should begin having pap smears at 21, with a repeat test in three years if the results are normal.
Women who are in the age range of 30 to 65 may opt to have a pap smear only, an HPV test only, or both tests together. If you opt for the HPV test only and it’s as expected, the team may advise you to test again in five years.
If you have a pap test only and the result is normal, you can wait three years for the next pap smear unless symptoms arise. Healthy results with both tests together warrant a test again in five years.
After the age of 65, you may not require a pap smear or HPV test as long as your results have been normal and you don’t have any troublesome symptoms.
What are women’s health options for contraception?
Birth control is an essential option for women who don’t want children either at the current time or ever. There are various forms of birth control available that the team will discuss with you at your appointment.
Your needs and overall health help the team determine the right kind of birth control for you. Some of the options offered include:
- IUD
- Birth control implant
- Oral contraceptives
- Vaginal ring
- Birth control shot
- Condom
- Tubal ligation
The team discusses each option and its success rate to help you make an educated decision about birth control.
Call Puget Sound Medical Associates today to schedule an appointment or request a consultation on the website.