Women's Health Specialist

Why do I need to think about women’s health?

In addition to having an annual physical examination with your personal physician at Midwest Regional Health Services, if you’re a woman you also benefit from an annual well-woman exam. 

This exam focuses on your reproductive organs and sexual health issues, such as sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing, help with becoming pregnant, or symptoms related to menstruation, perimenopause, or menopause. 

Women are also more prone to certain diseases than men are. For instance, women are more likely to die after a heart attack than men are. Women are also more likely to suffer from issues such as:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Depression
• Serious effects of STDs
• Depression and anxiety
• Osteoarthritis
• Osteoporosis

When you come in for your exam, your doctor also administers any necessary immunizations to keep you up to date. 

What is included in my well-woman exam?

When you come to Midwest Regional Health Services, your doctor conducts a thorough physical examination along with specific tests and asks about any symptoms or goals you have. Tests and procedures may include:

• Pelvic exam
• Breast exam
• Blood tests
• Urine test
• Pap smear
• STD tests

Depending on your age and symptoms, you may also be referred for a mammogram, bone density scan, or other tests. Many health insurance policies cover annual well-woman exams, including some tests. 

Are reproductive services are part of women’s health?

Yes. Whether you want to get pregnant or whether you want to prevent pregnancy, your women’s health specialist helps you achieve your goals. Services include contraception, pregnancy tests, and fertility counseling.

If you do become pregnant, your doctor may refer you to an OB/GYN.

When else should I see a doctor for women’s health issues?

Whenever you have any new or troubling symptoms, contact your Midwest Regional Health Services team. Common symptoms that you should contact us about include:

• Pelvic pain or cramps
• Heavy or irregular menstruation
• Foul-smelling or unusual vaginal discharge
• Hot flashes or night sweats
• Low libido
• Vaginal itching or dryness
• Blisters or sores on vulva or anus
• Mood changes or insomnia

Your women’s health doctor also helps alleviate symptoms of urinary incontinence. Many symptoms and conditions that women develop as they age are related to drops in their hormone levels. If you’re having these types of issues, your doctor may recommend hormone replacement therapy. 

To set up a well-woman exam, or if you have an issue or symptoms you’d like to discuss, contact your Midwest Regional Health Services team today. Reach us by phone or through the online form.