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Women's Health

Women's health covers health issues unique to women, such as pregnancy, menopause, and conditions of the reproductive organs, plus problems that affect women differently, including urinary tract problems. Clinics that list women's health services differ in what they offer, so call ahead to confirm.

Vaginal symptoms deserve a diagnosis

Itching, discharge, odor, or pain can come from bacterial vaginosis, a yeast infection, trichomoniasis (an STI), or irritation from products like douches and soaps, and each is treated differently. The HHS Office on Women's Health notes that yeast infection symptoms look a lot like other infections, including STIs, so see a clinician to confirm before using over-the-counter treatment. If you have four or more yeast infections in a year, talk to your doctor.

Routine screening

ACOG recommends starting cervical cancer screening at age 21: a Pap test every 3 years from 21 to 29, then an HPV test (or Pap-plus-HPV co-testing) every 5 years from 30 to 65. Screening and ongoing care usually belong with an ob-gyn or primary care clinician, while urgent care can help with same-day problems between those visits.

What it costs

Costs depend on the tests and treatment you need. Preventive screenings are often covered by insurance, so check your plan and ask for self-pay pricing. See the full Illinois cost guide.

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General health-services information, not medical advice. In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.