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Women have special health challenges. Menstrual irregularities, contraception, and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). We meet these challenges and more with a comprehensive offering of general and specialized gynecological (GYN) services. And, because we are committed to the whole discipline of women's health care, with a staff dedicated to treating only women.
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Learn more below about the important benefits of a yearly Pap and GYN exam, mammograms as determined by your age and family history, and monthly breast self-exams. Also, explore your options for contraception and our specialized GYN services, including treatments for menstrual irregularities, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (POS), abnormal Pap results, pelvic pain, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and menopause and HRT.
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Yearly Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear
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A yearly pelvic exam and Pap smear is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself. Your physician will collect cells from your cervix to determine the presence of infection, inflammation, and most importantly, abnormal cells that may indicate cervical cancer. Regular Pap smears and pelvic exams can detect pre-cancerous conditions early, increasing the likelihood of successful treatment.
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The National Cancer Institute advises women who are sexually active or who have reached 21 years of age to have yearly pelvic exams and Pap smears. This is a healthy habit that you should continue throughout your life, regardless of age. If you have had a hysterectomy, consult your physician as to whether or not you need regular Pap smears.
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Click here for information on the diagnosis of an abnormal Pap smear.
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Contraception/Birth Control
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Today, there are many contraception or birth control methods to choose from. Dr. Frey will discuss the different options with you and your partner, if desired to determine which method is right for you.
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Contraception services include:
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Oral contraceptives/birth control pills
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Depo-Provera injections
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Nuva Ring
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Tubal ligation surgery
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The contraceptive services above require a physician's examination and prescription.
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Feel free to discuss other non-prescription options with your physician, including:
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Condoms
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Spermicides
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Natural family planning
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Breast Health
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A breast exam is an integral part of your yearly exam. If required, you can take advantage of mammography services at the center of your choice. Dr. Frey may refer you to for diagnostic services, such as ultrasound and biopsy, in addition to mammograms.
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How to Perform a Monthly Breast Self-Exam
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While a breast exam is a part of your yearly exam, we encourage you to follow the American Cancer Society's guidelines for monthly breast self-exams for women 20 and older. The American Cancer Society also recommends:
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All women between 20 and 40 years old should have their breasts examined by a physician every three years and have an initial mammogram between 35 and 40.
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Women over 40 should have a mammogram and a physician's exam every year.
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The best time to perform a monthly breast self-exam is two to three days after your menstrual period ends. If you no longer menstruate, choose a date you'll remember, such as the 15th of each month.
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First Look for Any Changes
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Become familiar with how your breasts usually look and feel. Stand in front of a mirror and look for any changes while in the following positions:
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Arms raised at your sides
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Body bent slightly forward with hands firmly on hips
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Examine each breast for anything out of the ordinary, such as puckering, dimpling, or scaliness. Also check for any distortions or discoloration, such as redness, irritation, ulcers, and sores that do not heal properly, or changes in any moles.
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Next, inspect each nipple for any changes in size, shape, color, or location. Make note of any flattening, dimpling, indentation, retraction, or discharge.
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Next, Feel for Any Changes
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Lie on your back and place a small pillow or folded towel under your shoulder. You may use lotion or powder to help your fingers glide easily over the skin. Feel your breast tissue by pressing your three middle fingers in small, overlapping areas. Be sure to examine your whole breast. Take your time and follow a definite pattern, such as up and down lines or strips.
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With one arm raised, start in the underarm area and move your fingers downward little by little until you reach the area below the breast. Then move your fingers slightly toward the middle and slowly move back up. Go up and down until the entire area is covered, from collarbone to just below the breasts and from armpits to breastbone. You can do this exam either lying on your back or standing in the shower. Repeat this procedure for each breast. Report any breast changes, lumps, or knots to your physician immediately.
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