Life can get busy with the demands of work, family, and everything in between. However, while you spend a lot of time taking care of others, it’s important to prioritize your own health. That starts with making time for regular visits to the doctor. At Southside Medical Center in Atlanta, GA, our women’s health clinic offers a range of services, from well-woman exams to more specific needs like pregnancy testing and UTI treatments. Whether you’re due for a routine check-up or have a particular concern, we are here to provide the care you need.
Why Is Women’s Health Care So Important?
Women’s health care goes beyond simply caring for you when you’re sick. We seek to be there for you for every health concern while also helping to prevent or detect others. Maintaining regular visits to a woman’s healthcare provider is important for early detection of health issues and ongoing support throughout all stages of life. Screenings can identify changes in the body, while routine blood work can monitor cholesterol, blood sugar, and hormone levels. These appointments also provide a space to discuss reproductive health, contraception, and menopause management.
How Can Women’s Healthcare Change Over Time?
Women’s healthcare evolves as your body and health needs change. During the teen years, the focus is often on menstrual health and education, while adulthood may bring attention to reproductive health, family planning, and pregnancy. As women age, healthcare shifts toward monitoring menopause, managing hormone changes, and addressing conditions related to aging, such as bone health and heart disease. Each stage brings different priorities, and regular check-ins ensure that your care aligns with your current needs.
How to Prepare for Your First Visit
Before your first visit to our women’s health clinic, bring along your insurance details, a list of any medications you’re currently taking, and information about your medical history. It’s helpful to jot down any questions or symptoms you want to discuss with the doctor, so you don’t forget to mention anything while you are here. When you arrive, you’ll check in at the front desk where you will need to complete some quick paperwork.
What to Expect From a Basic Well-Woman Exam
A well-woman exam at our women’s health clinic covers different aspects of your health, including a physical checkup and routine screenings. You may have a pelvic exam to monitor the health of reproductive organs, which may include a PAP smear to screen for cervical changes. A breast exam is also performed to check for any unusual lumps. Your overall health, including blood pressure and heart rate, is assessed as well. This visit is also a good time to ask about any concerns related to your reproductive health, birth control options, or changes in your menstrual cycle.
What to Expect From Prenatal Care and Pregnancy Support
At our women’s health clinic, prenatal care includes regular checkups to monitor the health of both you and your baby throughout pregnancy. These visits typically involve ultrasounds, blood tests, and physical exams to track the baby’s development and address any changes in your health. You can also expect guidance on nutrition, managing symptoms like morning sickness, and preparing for labor. As your pregnancy progresses, we’re here to support you with answers to any questions and provide ongoing care to promote a healthy journey from the first trimester to delivery.
What to Expect From Some of Our Most Common Services
Breast Exams
As part of our women’s healthcare services, a breast exam involves your doctor manually checking your breasts for any lumps, thickened tissue, or other unusual changes. You’ll be asked to raise one arm at a time while the doctor uses their fingers to feel for any abnormalities across the breast and underarm area. This is usually done as part of a routine visit or when there’s a specific concern. If anything unusual is found, the doctor may recommend additional imaging, such as a mammogram, for further evaluation.
Pelvic Exams and PAP Smears
During a pelvic exam, your doctor will begin by asking you to lie back and place your feet in stirrups for a clear view of your reproductive organs. The exam starts with an external check of the vulva, followed by the insertion of a speculum, a small tool used to gently open the vagina. This allows the doctor to view the cervix and collect a sample for the PAP smear using a soft brush. After this, the doctor will remove the speculum and perform a manual exam, where two fingers are inserted into the vagina while pressing down on your lower abdomen with the other hand. This helps assess the size and shape of your uterus, ovaries, and other reproductive organs to check for any abnormalities or tenderness. While you may feel pressure, you should not experience pain. You can speak up at any time during the exam if you are uncomfortable or feeling pain and we’ll make sure you feel as relaxed as possible. You may bring a family member or request a chaperone to have in the room during the test for additional comfort.
Pregnancy Testing
If you’re experiencing early pregnancy symptoms or a missed period, we offer both urine and blood tests to confirm pregnancy. A urine test can provide results quickly, often within minutes during your visit. Blood tests, which may take a bit longer to process, are more sensitive and can detect pregnancy earlier. During your visit, you’ll also have the chance to discuss the next steps, whether that involves prenatal care or other considerations.
UTIs and Other Infections
For urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other common infections, we’ll typically collect a urine sample to confirm the presence of a UTI, while other infections may require a swab from the affected area (such as the vagina for yeast infections or STIs). Once the type of infection is identified, the doctor will discuss treatment options, which usually involve antibiotics or antifungal medication depending on the infection. We’ll also provide tips on managing symptoms and preventing future infections.
Family Planning Consultations
In family planning consultations, we discuss contraception options, fertility concerns, and reproductive health. Whether you’re interested in birth control pills, IUDs, or other contraceptives, we’ll go over the pros and cons of each method based on your health history and lifestyle. If you’re planning to conceive, we can offer guidance on preparing your body for pregnancy, including prenatal vitamins and timing. These consultations are a chance to have an open conversation about your reproductive goals and create a plan that aligns with your needs.
Call Us Today for Compassionate Women’s Care
At Southside Medical Center, we provide comprehensive services at our women’s health clinic in Atlanta, GA, to address all aspects of your reproductive health. Whether you’re seeking routine exams, pregnancy support, or family planning, we’re here to offer thorough, compassionate care. To schedule an appointment or ask any questions, call (404) 688-1350 or fill out our online form.
