New York, NY —(ENEWSPF)—May 11, 2015. Throughout National Women’s Health Week (May 10-16), Planned Parenthood Federation of America is highlighting the need for regular well-woman visits and preventive health care as a critical part of staying healthy for women of all ages. Well-woman visits are an opportunity for women to make sure they’re using the best birth control method for their needs, and an opportunity to ask questions they might not feel comfortable asking anyone else.
CDC Report: Many People Are not Getting the Recommended Cancer Screening Tests
A new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report found that many adults in the U.S. are not getting the recommended screening tests for colorectal, breast, and cervical cancers, underscoring the need for women to prioritize preventive care and get regular cancer screenings.
“Well-woman visits are a critical part of keeping women healthy, and getting recommended screening tests can help find health problems before they become serious,” said Dr. Deborah Nucatola, senior director of medical services at Planned Parenthood Federation of America. “Well-woman visits help providers learn more about your health and family history in order to help you stay as healthy as possible, and are a chance to make sure that you’re using the birth control method that best fits your needs.”
Some women may feel some anxiety about getting a well-woman exam, especially if they haven’t had one before. Planned Parenthood’s online resources and staff can walk them through the process and give them a clear sense of what to expect. We want to ensure that women know what to expect during a visit.
Good sexual health means getting to know your body and recognizing when you experience any changes. If you’re experiencing something out of the ordinary — lumps, swelling, pain, spotting, low sex drive, no orgasms, or unusual discharge — be sure talk to your health care provider right away. It might be less serious than you imagine, but you should have it checked out.
“Women of all ages come to Planned Parenthood because they know we provide affordable, high-quality care — and you can ask us anything. Nothing is off-limits,” Dr. Nucatola added. “Don’t hesitate if you have questions about your body or sexual health: It’s important not to let embarrassment or anxiety get in the way of taking care of yourself. We’re here to give you accurate, nonjudgmental information and advice.”
More than 90 percent of what we do at Planned Parenthood is provide lifesaving cancer screenings, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, and birth control. Last year alone, Planned Parenthood health centers saw 2.7 million patients, and provided nearly 500,000 breast exams, nearly 400,000 Pap tests, and birth control for 2.1 million people.
One in five women has turned to Planned Parenthood at some point in her life for affordable, high-quality health care and nonjudgmental, confidential information and advice, and our doors are open to everyone. Visit plannedparenthood.org to find a health center and make an appointment.
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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With approximately 700 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.
Source: Planned Parenthood Federation of America
