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Gynecology

Routine and Emergency Gynecological Visits

Gynecological exams are an important part of women's health care. Annual examinations detect health problems early on and allow for appropriate treatment before they turn into serious issues.

Why Gynecological Exams are Important

Starting from age 21, women should receive regular gynecological exams to check for cancer and STDs. As you age, more tests may be added to your gynecological exam to maintain your overall health, including a Pap test, Mammogram, chlamydia test, and STI testing. With regular testing, doctors can work with patients to find possible problems early, which makes them significantly easier to treat. Some problems may even be entirely prevented if doctors identify warning signs soon enough.

The following are tests that may be included in your gynecological exam, pending the doctor's suggestions:

  • Pap Tests - Your first Pap test is recommended to take place at age 21, with follow ups every 3 years until age 30, at which point American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends having one every 5 years until age 65. These tests scan the cervix for precancerous cells that could result in cervical cancer if left untreated.
  • Mammogram - Regular mammogram screenings should start at age 40. Mammograms are X-rays of the breast that check for warning signs of breast cancer, such as calcium deposits. If you have a family history of breast cancer, be sure to talk with your provider about your screening options.
  • Chlamydia Tests - Anyone who maintains an active sexual lifestyle should receive regular Chlamydia testing. These tests sample body fluid which are examined for chlamydia bacteria.
  • STD Tests - These tests check for a variety of sexually transmitted diseases and should be part of your regular care after becoming sexually active. Every STI test should include a check for HIV.

Comprehensive Services for All Stages of a Woman's Life

Early Adulthood:

  • Variety of birth control options
  • STD testing
  • Programs that offer free birth control and STD testing
  • Gardasil vaccination
  • 21 years and older – pelvic/cervical cultures (pap smear) with HPV testing as recommended by American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP) guidelines

Family Planning:

  • Infertility testing and treatment
  • Prenatal care and testing – prenatal blood draws, ultrasounds, fetal surveillance, genetic testing, cervical exams, everything up to delivery

Lactation Services:

  • Breastfeeding classes prior to delivery
  • Breastfeeding support group after delivery
  • Lactation consultations after delivery spend time with mom and baby to discuss breastfeeding questions, concerns, and difficulties

Postmenopausal:

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  • Discuss normal changes with postmenopausal women – low libido, pain with intercourse, hot flashes and night sweats
  • Urodynamic testing for incontinence issues
  • Bone Density Scans

To schedule an appointment with one of our OB/GYN providers, call:
Butler or Clarion Areas 844-765-2845
Westmoreland Area 724-850-3150

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