Women’s Health Specialist

Women have a distinct set of health needs, often pushing those needs to the bottom of a seemingly endless to-do list. At Refine Medical in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Heather Kennedy, PA-C, specializes in women’s health services and can ensure you get the care and support you need to thrive. Call or click today to book a personalized women’s health visit.

What is women’s health?

Women’s health is an area of medical care focused on addressing the health needs specific to women. While much of women’s health centers on reproductive health issues, there are also many general health topics interwoven with women’s health. 

For example, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and mental health issues continue to be a concern for many women. Finding ways to make meaningful improvements in these areas is an essential part of women’s health services. 

As you move through the phases of life, your women’s health needs will shift and change. Working with a skilled and compassionate provider is the best way to get the care you need when you need it. 

Many women place their own needs after those of everyone else. While caring for others is an honorable effort, women need to look after their own health in order to have the strength to care for others. 

What happens during well-woman exams?

Well-woman exams are the setting where you receive most of your women’s health services. These visits begin with discussing your overall health and any changes you’ve noticed since your last visit. 

A pelvic exam allows your practitioner to visually assess your vaginal and cervical tissues for signs of abnormalities. Pap smear testing occurs during this part of the visit. You’ll also receive a professional breast exam to look for signs of tissue changes. 

There is time built into your well-woman exam to discuss any areas of concern you have. Some of the topics often broached during these visits include:

• Sexually transmitted disease prevention, screening, and treatment
• Birth control
• Abnormal bleeding
• Pelvic pain
• Menopause
• Fertility
• Vaginal dryness
• Low sex drive

These are just a few of the topics you are welcome to bring up during your personalized women’s health visit.   

What is Pap smear testing?

Pap smear testing is the primary screening for cervical cancer. This simple test involves using a medical brush or spatula to gather a small volume of cells from your cervix. A lab technician examines those cells microscopically to look for changes that indicate cancer. 

Cervical cancer was once a leading cause of death among women. Since Pap smear testing became widely available, cervical cancer rates have steeply declined. You might not need Pap smear testing done during every well-woman exam, but this simple screening is a vital part of routine women’s health. 

If you’re overdue for a well-woman exam, call Refine Medical to schedule a visit. The practice is owned and operated by women, and these visits are unrushed and thorough. Online booking is also available and is fast and easy.