Overview
We provide exceptional female health care at Family Medicine Associates of Texas, in Carrollton, TX by our board-certified medical physicians and certified physician assistants. We understand that the health and medical needs of women vary greatly from men. The medical team at our practice work diligently daily to provide services that directly correlate to the needs of female patients. Our goal is to offer safe, quality care, while empowering women through education on how to take control of their health. Early detection and preventative care is essential to overall health and to living a long, healthy life. Our providers perform annual exams, disease screenings, family planning counseling, early prenatal care, and so much more. Whatever your need, our compassionate physicians and professional staff are here for you. Don't put off your health another day, call our office today so we can help you live the vibrant life you desire.
Reviews
Services
We care for the health needs of women at every stage of life, from young womanhood through menopause and after. Yearly gynecologic exams, breast exams, wellness screenings, and other female healthcare needs are essential to keeping you healthy and active. Our family medical practice is proud to offer the following assessments and services for our female patients.
Thin Prep PAP Smear
This smear has replaced the older, conventional method of obtaining a PAP smear. With this new method, not only can we test for early signs of cervical cancer, we can also check for the HPV virus, the virus that can cause healthy cervical cells to become precancerous ones. It also allows us to check for infections such as bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.
Breast Exams
We offer yearly breast exams for preventative care and breast exams for women who have an urgent concern, such as a noticeable growth or lump. We believe early detection is key and maintaining your health is a priority, therefore, we highly recommend receiving regular breast exams. Our highly-trained providers will also educate you on how to best perform self-examinations at home.
Contraception
To be sure you are using an effective contraception technique, we can discuss options available to you. If you have teenagers, you need to discuss this with them as well to avoid unwanted pregnancies. They are often too young and immature to take proper preventative measures.
HPV Screenings
80% of women are exposed to the HPV virus before age 30. Of these women, over 85 – 90 % of them will clear the virus with the help of their immune system. An annual screening allows us to identify the other 10 – 15% of women who do not clear the virus from the cervix. This will help them prevent and/or treat the development of abnormal cervical cells early.
STD Testing
You should be screened for sexually transmitted diseases if you are sexually active and have had more than one partner. This is especially true if you are between 15 – 30 years old. This includes screening for HPV (human papilloma virus), chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. These sexually transmitted diseases can affect fertility and can cause various cancers.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is recommended for women in the peri-menopausal years and possibly for the long term. HRT may have multiple beneficial effects on the risk for a heart attack, stroke, bone thinning and even Alzheimer’s disease. You should discuss this with your provider to be sure you are making the best decision about hormone replacement therapy
Management of Osteoporosis
Women should take calcium and Vitamin D to prevent osteoporosis (bone thinning). Women need 1000-5000 mg of calcium and 400-800 IU (international units) of Vitamin D per day. Most adults get approximately 500 mg of calcium with vitamin supplements. To make your bones stronger, we recommend weight-bearing exercises and walking.
Pregnancy Testing
There are 2 types of pregnancy testing, urine and blood. Typically, a urine test is completed in the privacy of your own home, as there are many over-the-counter tests that are readily available at your local pharmacy. Although urine tests are very accurate, especially when performed correctly, many women still schedule an office visit with their doctor for a blood test to confirm their pregnancy.
Pelvic Exam
A pelvic exam is when a doctor thoroughly examines a woman's vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries to make sure everything is healthy and in its proper position. Typically, women undergo this exam during their well woman check ups. However, we recommended receiving a pelvic exam every 3 years after the age of 21.
Cardiac Care for Women
Our practice provides both preventative care and treatment options for cardiovascular diseases. Heart disease is actually the number one cause of death for women over the age of 25. Therefore, it's very important to maintain preventative care and to discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor.
Management of Menopause
Menopause is a transitional period in a women's life when her ovaries stop producing eggs. Typically, this time period occurs when a women is in her late 40s or early 50s. Our board-certified physicians can provide medical counseling on how to manage this transition, recommend medications or dietary supplements that can help ease your discomfort, offer self-care guides, and direct you to a specialist if necessary.
Colposcopy
If the results of your pap smear is unusual, we recommend receiving a colposcopy examination. During this procedure, your doctor will use a colposcope, which is a large electric microscope to examine your cervix, vagina, and vulva more closely to identify any abnormalities.
Protect Your Feminine Health
A woman's health is very important and it's essential to take proper precautions, maintain preventative care, and seek professional help if you are unsure of how to manage a disease or condition. At Family Medicine Associates of Texas, our board-certified physicians have extensive training in women's health and are happy to help guide you on your journey to wellness and optimal living. Call our practice today to schedule your appointment.