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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.

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.

In the news: Questions about the future of Clarion deliveries at Butler Memorial Hospital? Click here to learn more.

Expecting a little one? Click here to visit our maternity page.

Our board-certified lactation consultant. Jayme Baumcratz, RN, BSN, IBCLC facilitates a weekly Mom & Baby Breastfeeding Support Group that welcomes all breastfeeding mothers, regardless of where they delivered. Held on Mondays from 11:00 am until noon in the Board Room on across from the East Side Café.

Safe Haven Law– If you are pregnant, and not prepared to be a mom, and feel you have not one to turn to, there are options. It is difficult to plan for a baby. Sometimes circumstances beyond our control make it impossible to take care of a newborn. Thankfully there are options. Through the Safe Haven program, parents who feel they cannot take care of their infant may take it to a Safe Haven facility. This is a legal, discrete way to relinquish care of your child to a safe organization and give it a brighter future. The employees at these facilities understand the difficult decision you have to make, and assist you without any judgment or chastising. For more information, log onto www.secretsafe.org or call 1-866-921-SAFE.

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