Routine Gynecological check-ups and exams are important to maintain good health. Our Gynecology clinic sees patients on an appointment basis only. The gynecological exams include a yearly Pap Smear, pelvic exam, breast exam, and lab tests which may help to identify any abnormalities patients may be experiencing. Early diagnosis is a very important factor in successful treatment.

Our Gynecologist will perform vaginal cultures, urine and blood tests for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD's) and treatment. We also provide education for the prevention of STD's. Birth control options will be discussed to prevent unwanted pregnancies since this will prevent the number one cause of abortions.

During an appointment at the Women's Centers, feel free to ask any questions you have about Chlamydia, HIV/AIDs, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV/genital warts), gonorrhea or herpes.

Pap Smear

The Pap smear is a test that examines cells collected from the cervix. The purpose is to screen for cervical cancer, although it can also detect pre-cancerous cellular changes and HPV. The Pap smear was developed in the early 1940's and since then; deaths from cervical cancer have decreased by 70%.

How the Pap Smear is Performed

Pap smears are performed by removing superficial cells from the cervix which are collected with a small brush. The collection of these cells takes just a few seconds to perform and there is no pain or discomfort involved.

Importance of the Pap Smear

Early detection of abnormal cell changes in the cervix is very important in order to have the best chance of treatment. Cervical abnormalities leading to cancer normally do not have any symptoms.

How Often Should Pap Smears be Performed?

• Women should have their first Pap Smear three years after becoming sexually active, or by the time they reach age 21 (whichever comes first).
• Teenagers and patients in their 20's need a Pap Smear every year.
• As women get older and there are no abnormal Pap Smears, one can decrease the frequency of them.
• If a patient has an abnormal Pap Smear, the frequency of having them performed in a year may increase.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the leading cause of death in women between the ages of 35 to 54 years of age. The tumor contains lumps of malignant cells in the breast. Most lumps in the breast are not cancerous but some are. Most patients with breast cancer have no family history or other known risk factors associated with breast cancers.

Incidence of Breast Cancer

• Breast cancer occurs in about 1 in 8 women.
• 185,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed each year.
• Early detection is the key to treating the disease.

Early Detection

Get yearly breast exams; report any breast lumps or other suspicious changes to your Physician. If over 40, have a yearly mammogram.

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