Women's health
From caring for your family to work deadlines to relaxing with loved ones – wanting to be your best self is at the center of it all.
At Allina Health, you’ll find women’s health providers who focus on you, where you are in life and mindful of the next step. You can count us on for expert, compassionate and guiding support through every stage of life. Allina Health women's health services include:
- gynecology care
- midwifery
- pregnancy care
- high-risk pregnancy care - to see a high-risk pregnancy care specialist, you must be referred by your provider.
- urogynecology
Allina Health women’s health experts include obstetrician and gynecologists (OB/GYNs); family medicine physicians, certified nurse-midwives and women’s health nurse practitioners. Together, we’ll help you get ready for wherever life takes you.
Learn more
What it is
An annual woman’s health exam is a lot more than a Pap test; it is important check-in with your provider about both physical and emotional health throughout all stages of life. During your visit, you and your provider may talk about these example topics.
Ages 19-39:
- birth control
- sexually transmitted infection screening
- pregnancy planning
- vaccinations
- menstrual issues
- diet, exercise, and healthy weight
Ages 40-64:
- symptoms of menopausal transition
- mammography
- colon cancer screening
- long-term birth control options
- diet, exercise and healthy weight
- pelvic floor and incontinence issues
Ages 65 and older: It is recommended that you start seeing a family medicine or internal medicine physician for your annual exam around this time.
- mammography until age 75
- complications of menopause
- bone mineral density screening, breast exam and pelvic exams-dependent on your specific needs
What to expect
Your annual exam will include:
- a complete physical exam including breast and pelvic exams
- a check for diseases or problems you might not be aware you have
- health screenings, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and depression
- social history, including smoking and drinking
- age-specific topics
The frequency of a Pap test is individualized and dependent on your history and risk factors.
Good to know
An annual exam is a great opportunity for you to ask questions, too. These 10 questions are especially important for women in their 20s and 30s to ask:
- Do I need any vaccinations or booster shots?
- How often do I need a Pap test?
- Do my weight, diet or behaviors put me at risk for heart disease or diabetes?
- How much exercise should I get?
- Am I using the right kind of birth control for my needs?
- Should I make any changes before getting pregnant, such as taking folic acid supplements , switching a medicine?
- Should I be screened for high cholesterol, high blood sugar or high blood pressure?
- Do I have any suspicious moles or skin growths?
- Does my family's health history raise any concerns?
- Am I healthy enough to get pregnant?
Related links
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Pregnancy care
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Gynecology care
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Urogynecology: women's pelvic health & reconstructive surgery
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Midwifery
Source: Allina Health Primary Care clinical service line
Reviewed by: Ronald Gourneau, MD