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OB/GYN

Routine and Emergency Gynecological Exams

Gynecological exams are an important part women's health care. Annual examinations detect health problems early on and allow for appropriate treatment before they turn into serious issues. Butler Health System is staffed with a team of highly trained OB/GYN physicians who provide thorough gynecological exams and any other tests that may be required for optimum health.

The following are tests that may be included in your gynecological exam, pending the doctor's suggestions:

  • Pap Tests - Your first Pap test is recommended to take place at age 21, with follow ups every 3 years until age 30, at which point American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends having one every 5 years until age 65. These tests scan the cervix for precancerous cells that could result in cervical cancer if left untreated.
  • Mammogram - Regular mammogram screenings should start at age 45, according to the American Cancer Society. Mammograms are X-rays of the breast that check for warning signs of breast cancer, such as calcium deposits.
  • Chlamydia Tests - Anyone who maintains an active sexual lifestyle should receive regular Chlamydia testing. These tests sample body fluid which are examined for chlamydia bacteria.
  • STD Tests - These tests check for a variety of sexually transmitted diseases and should be part of your regular care after becoming sexually active. Every STI test should include a check for HIV.

Comprehensive Services for All Stages of a Woman's Life

Teens – Pre-pregnancy:

  • Variety of birth control options
  • STD testing
  • Programs that offer free birth control and STD testing
  • Sex trafficking and coercion education
  • Gardasil vaccination
  • 21 years and older – pelvic/cervical cultures (pap smear) with HPV testing as recommended by American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP) guidelines

Reproductive years:

  • Infertility testing and treatment
  • Prenatal care and testing – prenatal blood draws, ultrasounds, fetal surveillance, genetic testing, cervical exams, everything up to delivery

Lactation Services:

  • Breastfeeding classes prior to delivery in both Butler and Clarion
  • Breastfeeding support group after delivery in Clarion every Friday – free
  • Lactation consultations after delivery in both Butler and Clarion – offers hour long 1:1 with mom and baby to discuss breastfeeding questions, concerns, and difficulties
  • Private online Facebook breastfeeding support group

Postmenopausal:

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  • Discuss normal changes with postmenopausal women – low libido, pain with intercourse, hot flashes and night sweats
  • Urodynamic testing for incontinence issues
  • Bone Density Scans

Why Gynecological Exams are Important

Starting from age 21 and onwards, women should receive regular gynecological exams to check for cancer and STDs. As you age, more tests should be added to your gynecological exam, including a Pap test, Mammogram, chlamydia test, and STI testing. With regular testing, doctors can catch problems early, which makes them significantly easier to treat. Some problems may even be entirely prevented if doctors spot warning signs soon enough. It is best to have an exam once every 3 years, unless your doctor advices otherwise.

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