By the age of 21, regardless of sexual activity, all women need to begin seeing a gynecologist annually.
Annual Check Up
Who should get an annual gynecological check-up?
All women who are sexually active and women over 21 should schedule an appointment for a routine gynecological exam. The best time to have an exam is between ten and twenty days after the first day of your menstrual period.
Any woman who is experiencing symptoms of pelvic or abdominal pain, unusual discharge or abnormal bleeding should schedule an appointment for a diagnostic gynecological exam as soon as they recognize these symptoms.
What will occur during a routine exam?
- A visual examination of your genital area to look for any sign of infection or other abnormalities
- A Pap test (see below for details)
- A physical exam to determine the position and size of your uterus and ovaries
- A conversation with your health care provider to determine your personal risk factors for conducting any additional screening tests for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s)
- Any questions you may have regarding your health will be answered
What is a Pap test?
A small amount of cells will be taken from the cervix and sent for laboratory analysis for identification of pre-cancerous changes, inflammation or infection.
Why should I have a Pap test?
It is important for early detection and treatment. Cervical cancer is 100% curable when detected in the pre-cancerous or early stage. In addition, other STI screenings can be added to the PAP specimen.
For further information or to set up an exam call the Medical Clinic at 325-674-2625.
Self Breast Exams
“Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women, and the second leading cause of cancer. More than 178,000 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed this year, and over 44,000 women will die from the disease. With early detection and prompt, state-of-the-art treatment, the five-year survival rate is 97 percent.”
-The Center for Disease Control
What can I do to help reduce my risk for breast cancer?
For average-risk asymptomatic women in their 20’s and 30’s, it is recommended that a clinical breast exam be part of a periodic health examination, preferable at least every three years. Additionally, every woman should perform breast self exams each month. If anything is detected or questions arise, contact your health care provider as soon as possible.
Click here for information on how to perform a breast self exam.
National Cancer Institute
A variety of information about breast cancer, early detection, treatment and more.
Pregnancy Services
The emotional, spiritual, and health issues during a pregnancy can seem overwhelming. At Abilene Christian University, we will make every effort to provide you with a supportive environment to assure caring, confidential, non-judgmental, professional assistance and to support others affected by the pregnancy as well. There are many resources available to you that will assist you in continuing and completing your degree.
The goal of the University is to provide a comprehensive support team that emphasizes caring and personal respect. If you are pregnant, or if you know someone who is pregnant, there are support services available at ACU. All consultations will be handled confidentially.
Medical Care Clinic
The ACU Medical Clinic provides confidential pregnancy testing. Call 325-674-2625 to make an appointment. The Medical Clinic can help arrange referrals with off-campus physicians, provide nutritional guidance, and answer questions about what to expect during pregnancy.
Counseling Care Clinic
Confidential counseling services by compassionate, caring licensed therapists are available to you in effort to support you. You may call 325-674-2626 or visit our website here.
HPV Vaccine
Genital HPV and the New HPV Vaccine
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted virus in the United States. Many are unaware because it usually has no symptoms and can go away on its own. The virus can remain silent for years.
Who Gets HPV?
Anyone who has ever had genital contact with another person who has genital HPV can get HPV. You are more likely to get HPV if you have:
- Engaged in sexual activity at an early age
- A history of multiple sex partners
- Sexual contact with a partner who has a history of multiple sex partners
Since many women will have genital HPV at some point in their lives it is very important to screen for the disease by getting regular Pap Tests. Early detection can save your life!
Ways of Reducing the Risk of Exposure to HPV
Abstinence is the surest way since exposure to the virus is possible even while wearing condoms because of infected areas that may not be covered. The most serious consequence of genital HPV is cervical cancer in women. A Pap Test is the best way to screen for HPV.
New Vaccine to Prevent Cervical Cancer
In June 2006, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to recommend the first vaccine developed to prevent cervical cancer and other diseases caused by certain types of genital human papilloma virus (HPV). The HPV vaccine protects against 4 HPV types, which together cause 70% of cervical cancers and 90% of genital warts.
Who Should Get the Vaccine?
The vaccine is recommended for two groups:
- 11-12 year old girls, can be given as young as 9
- Ideally before they are sexually active
- Most effective in people who have not yet acquired any of the 4 HPV types covered by the vaccine
- 13-26 year old girls/women who have not yet received or completed the series
The vaccine has been widely tested in the 9-26 year old range but research, safety and efficacy has only recently begun on women older than 26 years of age.
What Does the HPV Vaccine Not Cover?
- Certain types of cervical cancers will not be prevented by the vaccine
- It does not prevent against all types of genital warts and won’t prevent other STIs.
- It is also important for sexually active adults to continue with annual exams and to reduce exposure to HPV and other STIs.
Obtaining the Vaccine
The HPV vaccine is a series of three shots over a six month period of time and is available at the Taylor County Health Department by calling 325-692-5600 and scheduling an appointment. The cost of the vaccine is up to $130 per dose.
You will need to check with your health insurance about questions regarding your personal policy coverage in relation to payment for the HPV vaccine.
For additional information visit the CDC HPV web site.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease found primarily in women which weakens and thins bones over time. Often times individuals are unaware of their bone frailty until they break a bone. Osteoporosis is preventable if one begins to take preventative measures at an early age:
- Calcium: Foods that are high in calcium are integral to preventing osteoporosis. These foods include cheese, yogurt, milk, and dark-green leafy vegetables like kale, collard, and broccoli.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps your body to absorb calcium, so look for foods (especially milk and cereal) fortified with Vitamin D.
- Exercise: Exercise helps to build and strengthen bones.
Click here for more information about osteoporosis.
Yeast Infections
Did you know that approximately 75% of all women will experience a yeast infection at least once in their lifetime?
What is a yeast infection?
Yeast is always present in the female body. An infection occurs due to a shift in the pH of the vagina causing excess yeast.
What are the symptoms of a yeast infection?
Symptoms may include: itching, burning and irritation in the vagina, painful urination and/or intercourse, and thick white discharge.
What causes a yeast infection?
There are a variety of causes of a yeast infection. Some of the most common are:
- Antibiotics
- Oral contraceptives
- Douching
- Perfumed feminine hygiene sprays
- Wearing tight and/or poorly ventilated clothing
What to do if you think you have a yeast infection?
The best thing to do if you suspect you may have a yeast infection is to see a doctor or nurse practitioner for a diagnosis and course of treatment. It is especially important to seek medical advice if you have recurrent yeast infections.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, call the Medical Clinic at 325-674-2625