Gynecological Services Female Well Visits

For women, routine gynecological appointments are a critical part of maintaining positive reproductive health, treating vaginal health problems, and other issues related to overall health. At Stony Brook Women’s Health, our gynecologist and staff are dedicated to providing you with the personalized care you need.

The gynecological services that we offer at Stony Brook Women’s Health include treatment and prevention of disorders, as well as overall health of the female reproductive system. These are some of the most common female health issues that we regularly treat:

  • Abnormal bleeding
  • Vaginal or bladder infections
  • Breast problems
  • Pelvic pain
  • Irregular periods and vaginal discharges
  • Vaginal skin disorders, such as swelling
  • Benign and cancerous conditions
  • Infertility
  • Yeast infections

In addition to treating medical conditions, gynecologists also provide preventive or “well-woman care”, to help women understand, prevent and identify potential issues. This includes such topics as contraception, sexual counseling, menopause management, vaccinations, ordering mammography, STD screening, and annual cancer screening, including Pap tests. Our office treats any and all of these conditions, and will be happy to schedule an appointment.

What Happens During Your Routine Gyno Visit:

  • Breast exam.
  • Pap test and pelvic exam.
  • Physical Exam.
  • History and health habits are documented.
  • Lab tests/screening for STDs (at you or your gynecologist’s request).
Schedule a Routine Visit Now

 

Gynecological Exams

Part of maintaining your reproductive and sexual health includes routine visits to a gynecologist, which should take place at least once a year. Most girls schedule their first gynecologist appointment between ages 13 and 15. Early gynecologist appointments will allow girls to develop a relationship and become comfortable with gynecologists, making it easier to share personal information. Girls who are sexually active or having menstrual issues must feel comfortable scheduling an appointment, and sharing this information with a gynecologist. Gynecologists also help to provide important education, which is necessary at this young age.

Routine gynecologist visits help girls to record healthy habits and history, help them to learn about any potential issues through a physical exam, and help them to set new health goals moving forward. During a general gyno exam, we can offer screenings for diseases. We can also provide preventative services, such as shots, and empower girls to make the right health decisions.

 

How To Prepare for a Gynecologist Appointment:

Whether it is your 1st or 40th exam, by preparing you will be more relaxed and be able to get the most out of the appointment. In order avoid any interference or inaccurate results we ask you follow these guidelines:

  • Avoid using douches, vaginal creams, tampons or having intercourse 48 hours prior to your appointment
  • If you are menstruating it is best to reschedule your appointment. A Pap smear can not be performed if you are bleeding or spotting.
  • Write down any questions or concerns you may have. This includes unusual pain, discharge, heavy flow or anything you feel may be of importance.

When Should I have a Gyno Exam?

We recommended that girls have their first gynecological check-up between 13 and 15 years old. For most teens, this is a simple external examination.

An internal examination of the reproductive organs is not necessary until the age of 21, unless there is abnormal bleeding, painful menstruations or other problems relating to reproductive health. Our doctors can help provide accurate information regarding sexual health, and help with any concerns regarding menstruation.

We recommend you schedule routine visits at least once a year to have a Pap smear and regular check up. Visits between the ages of 21 and 29 are most important.

 

Contraception

At Stony Brook Women’s Health, we take our role as a source of education about the various contraception options seriously. There are several different methods of birth control and, depending on a woman’s level of sexual activity, lifestyle, and general preferences, the method they select can vary. During routine gynecological appointments, our staff can explain these options and help you to select the appropriate choice.

 

What is a Pap Test?

The Papanicolaou test, also known as Pap smear, cervical smear or smear test is the method used to detect any precancerous or cancerous cells in the cervix, uterus and womb. This is an important preventative measure for women of all ages to take.

What can a Pap Test Detect?

  • Abnormal growths in the cervix
  • Infections or inflammations of the cervix.