Comprehensive Women’s Health & OB-GYN Care

Annual Exam

Routine well-woman exams, including pelvic exams, Pap smears, and overall health assessments, are essential for preventive care.

Labs

Our in-office lab testing allows for quick and accurate diagnosis of various conditions, including hormone imbalances and infections.

Women's Health 

Concerns From menstrual irregularities to menopause management, we address all aspects of women’s health with a compassionate and individualized approach.

Sexual Health 

We provide confidential and supportive care for sexual health concerns, including STI testing, treatment, and sexual wellness counseling.

Abnormal Pap Smears

If you’ve received an abnormal Pap test result, we offer advanced diagnostics and treatment options, including colposcopy and follow-up care.

Pregnancy

• Prenatal care: This is a term concerning several checkups from nurses, nurse practitioners, and doctors throughout your pregnancy to keep you and your baby healthy. You can monitor your baby's growth through ultrasounds and regular appointments as you get closer to your due date.
• Breech babies: A baby positioned bottom-down instead of head-down late in the pregnancy is known as a breech baby. Your child is not in danger, but this positioning could cause some complications during delivery. An OB-GYN may be able to turn the baby to the head-down position if they are still in the breech position by applying pressure to your abdomen.
• C-sections: This is a procedure to deliver a baby through surgical openings in the abdomen and uterus. A C-section is usually done because a vaginal delivery could harm the baby or mother.
• Prenatal testing: This form of testing can include genetic testing to detect and determine if any problems with the pregnancy are apparent.
• High-risk pregnancy treatments: Your physician will determine if your pregnancy is high-risk. Some factors they consider include high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or being HIV positive. Our skilled physicians are trained to handle these situations.
• Maternal Fetal Medicine: Should you need a higher level of care for this pregnancy, we work closely with Maternal Fetal Medicine providers in Topeka, Kansas City, and Wichita. We can offer telehealth services through our partnership with HCA in Overland Park, KS. Patients who are referred to this practice will have most ultrasounds and telehealth appointments completed at our office for their convenience.
• Postpartum care: A mother's emotional and physical health can be taxed following childbirth. Postpartum care is essential to monitor your well-being within the first few weeks after delivery.
  

Ultrasound

Unsupervised children are not allowed at ultrasound appointments in our office. Please make other arrangements when required.

• Anatomy Scan: Completed around 20 weeks. We check fetal position, placement of the placenta, and heart rate. Please drink 20-30 oz of water and eat a high-carb/protein snack 30 minutes before your appointment.
• Growth Scan: Usually scheduled in the 3rd trimester, this scan assesses the baby’s development and checks growth, weight, position, and movement. These are only scheduled when indicated in pregnancy.
• Biophysical Profile: Referred to as a BPP, it takes a look at the baby’s heart rate, breathing, movement, muscle tone, and amount of amniotic fluid. These are only scheduled when indicated in pregnancy.
  

Menses

Most non-lactating women will resume menses within 6-12 weeks after delivery, and most women will have ovulated by 45 days after delivery. Contraception should be initiated by your 6-week postpartum visit regardless of whether you are breast or formula feeding, since it is possible to become pregnant while breastfeeding

Condom

A rubber sheath worn over the penis during genital contact. It acts as a barrier to transmission of semen and sexually transmitted diseases (non-latex condoms DO NOT act as a barrier for HIV). Success rate is about 88-98%.

Implantable Contraception-Nexplanon

A flexible, plastic rod, which is the size of a matchstick, that your physician places under the skin of your arm in an office procedure. More than 99% effective and good for 3 years.

Combination Oral Contraceptive Pills

Estrogen + Progesterone: Can be taken if you are formula feeding. Not recommended while breastfeeding as it may decrease your milk supply.

Contraceptive Injection

A hormonal injection that prevents ovulation. It is given every 12 weeks and it usually takes 7 days - 1 month for it to be effective. Success rate is 99.5%.

Topical Patch

A small flesh-colored patch that you apply to the skin once weekly for 3 continuous weeks, then remove for 1 week. This method is similar to the oral contraceptive pills. Success rate is 99%.

Latching On

• Sit back comfortably (don't lean over, baby).
• The baby's face and body should be turned toward Mom.
• Make sure that the large part of the areola is drawn into the baby's mouth.
  

Colostrum

• Produced in the first days.
• Small in quantity (teaspoons, not ounces).
• It protects against infection and clears meconium to help reduce jaundice.
• Satisfies baby's thirst and hunger.
  

Sore Nipples

• Correct position and latch are important!
• Break suction before taking the baby off the breast.
• Offer the least sore breast first.
• Use only plain water for washing.
• Use an ultra-pure modified lanolin to speed healing.
  

Payment Information

• Before your initial visit, our billing staff will contact your insurance company to obtain benefits for your maternity care. When calling for your benefits, we will ask for your global maternity care benefits. We will base your payment plan on your benefits.
• Our billing team will contact you through Klara to review your OB contract and payment options.Payment arrangements are required before your first visit. Payment plans require a card on file.
• In the event of pregnancy loss, your insurance will be billed for any services rendered. If you have a credit balance remaining on your account after insurance processes your claim, you will be refunded this amount.
  

What to Expect in an Annual Exam

The following list includes sub-services that live under the comprehensive annual Ob-Gyn exam.

• STD screenings: These screenings can include several forms, as each STD has its own test. Your doctor will help you determine what tests you need based on your symptoms. To be screened for STDs, you may have to participate in a urine test, cheek swab, blood test, physical exam, sore check, or a swab of the reproductive organs.​
• HPV vaccines: The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can protect women from cancer-causing infections and precancerous cells on the cervix. Scientists continuously monitor HPV vaccines to ensure their safety and effectiveness. ​
• Clinical breast exams: Breast exams are quick and easy. Your health provider will palpate your breast, checking for any lumps, bumps, thickening, or discharge. You will also be taught how to monitor these things from home.​
• Pap smears: A pap smear is a brief exam to check for precancerous cells on your cervix. Your results will not be immediate, as the sample must be sent to the lab for testing. After collecting the sample, your OB-GYN may perform a bimanual exam to check the health of your uterus and ovaries. Paps are processed by Peterson Lab, and patients will receive a separate bill from that office.​
• Vaccinations: In addition to OB-GYN vaccinations, an annual exam may provide updated flu or tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (TDAP) vaccines.

Breast Imaging

Breast imaging like mammography and ultrasound can be ordered by your provider during your appointment. These can be completed at your chosen location.

Women's Surgical Procedures

Our surgical procedures encompass the following:​

• Dilation and curettage (D&C): A procedure to remove uterus tissue to test, diagnose, and treat certain conditions or to clear the lining following a miscarriage.​
• Da Vinci robotic surgery: A minimally invasive surgery assisted with robotic innovation to make small incisions for surgery. This is used for endometriosis resection, hysterectomy, myomectomy, and pelvic organ prolapse.​
• Hysterectomy: A surgery to completely remove the uterus from the body. A woman is no longer able to get pregnant following this operation.​
• Hysteroscopy: An inspection of the inside of the cervix and uterus for any abnormalities. This procedure uses a hysteroscope—a thin, flexible tube.​
• Myomectomy: A procedure to remove leiomyomas or uterine fibroids. These can develop during childbearing years and are noncancerous.​
• Polypectomy: The removal of a polyp in the uterine lining or cervix. These small growths are benign in most cases but can be uncomfortable.​
• Endometrial ablation: The reduction or destruction of the uterine lining to limit or completely stop menstrual flow. No incisions are used in this procedure; only thin tools are inserted through the cervix.​
• Laparoscopy: Another minimally invasive procedure to search for endometriosis, structural abnormalities, ovarian cysts, and more within the uterus and cervix.​
• Tubal ligation: A type of permanent birth control, sterilizes the fallopian tubes. This procedure is for women who do not wish to have a future pregnancy.​
  

Women's Health Conditions

• Incontinence: A common complication in women during or following pregnancy, a lack of voluntary control over urination can include urine leaks when you exert pressure on your bladder—like coughing, sneezing, or laughing. Antidiuretics are medications that cause the kidneys to produce less water, thus decreasing the amount of urine produced.​
• Pelvic pain: Discomfort ranging from a dull ache to a sharp pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis. This is not always caused by an underlying disease but should be analyzed with a pelvic exam.​
• Ovarian cysts: A fluid-filled sac on the surface of the ovary that can cause pain during the menstrual cycle, discomfort during intercourse, or irregular bowel movements. Birth control pills or surgery are treatment options if the cyst does not go away on its own.​
• Fibroids: Benign or noncancerous tumors that cause pelvic pain and prolonged, heavy menstruation. Treatments can range from medications to surgical removal of the fibroid.​
• Abnormal bleeding: Spotting or bleeding from the uterus that is longer than usual during menstruation or that occurs outside the regular cycle. This can be caused by several health conditions and can be treated with hormone therapies, birth control, or surgical options, depending on the diagnosis.​
• Vaginal irritation: Any itching, discomfort, or burning of the vagina, usually caused by an imbalance in bacteria. This is common in women of all ages and can be treated with antifungal medications or provider-recommended creams.​
• Menstrual problems: Complications during the menstrual cycle, including cramps and heavy flow. These problems can be helped with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, birth control, or hormone therapy.​
• Endometriosis: When cells similar to those in the uterine lining grow outside the uterus. Pain and menstrual irregularities are common symptoms. Hormone therapy and some surgeries can treat painful symptoms.​
• UTI: An infection occurring in the bladder or urethra, causing pelvic pain, urination pain, the urge to urinate, and blood in the urine. Antibiotics are typically prescribed to treat UTIs.​
• Cervical dysplasia: The growth of abnormal cells in a woman's cervix. This is not cancer but is found through Pap testing. Mild cases can go away on their own, but more serious treatments can include surgery.​
• Amenorrhea: The absence of menstruation, involving missing one or more menstrual periods consecutively. This is normal before puberty, during pregnancy, or after menopause. Birth control pills or hormone therapies are often used to restart menstrual cycles.​​

Sexual Health

• Painful sex: While several factors can contribute to pain during sex, this issue often relates to vaginal dryness. Medications and therapies can help increase lubrication and decrease pain.​
• Hormonal problems: As you age, hormones can decrease, reducing your sexual desire. Hormone replacement therapy can increase your hormonal level, increasing libido and energy.​
• STD/STI: It is recommended for all sexually active women to be regularly screened for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and infections (STIs). Results are received through urine tests, blood tests, or swabs. These exams can vary depending on the STD or STI being tested.​
• Contraception and birth control: Measures can be taken to prevent pregnancies through contraception or birth control. These can be pills or inserted devices, such as an IUD. An intrauterine device (IUD) is a thin, T-shaped plastic device containing hormones to provide birth control. This is inserted into the uterus and is long-term, reversible, and a highly effective birth control method. If used correctly, an IUD can decrease your chances of pregnancy to less than 1%.​
• Pelvic exams: These exams can be part of a regular OB-GYN checkup. A pelvic exam can also be recommended if pelvic pain is experienced. A pelvic exam will only last a few minutes as a doctor checks your vulva, vagina, ovaries, cervix, uterus, rectum, and pelvis for complications.​
• HPV vaccines: This vaccination prevents certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) in women. Contracting HPV is the most significant risk of cervical cancer.​​​

Fertility

• Pre-Pregnancy and Fertility Counseling: Pre-pregnancy counseling can help women prepare for a healthy pregnancy by addressing any potential health issues and lifestyle factors that may impact fertility. Additionally, our providers offer patients information about their reproductive health and the factors that can impact fertility.​
• Fertility Ultrasounds: Fertility ultrasounds are used to evaluate the health and function of a woman's reproductive organs, including the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. These ultrasounds can help diagnose conditions that may impact fertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and tubal patency.​
• Oral Medications: Oral medications can be prescribed by our providers to help induce ovulation in women who have difficulty ovulating regularly.​
• IUI (Intrauterine Insemination): IUI is used to treat infertility in couples who have difficulty conceiving due to low sperm count, decreased sperm motility, or issues with ovulation. IUI can also be used in cases of unexplained infertility. During an IUI procedure, sperm is collected and washed to remove any seminal fluid. The sperm is then placed directly into the uterus using a small catheter. This is typically done around the time of ovulation when the woman's egg is released from the ovary.​
• Our office infertility policy requires pre-payment for most infertility services, as these services are not always covered by insurance. Any overpayment will be refunded to you.
  

Abnormal Pap Smear

In our office, most Pap tests will automatically be combined with a screening test for HPV.​

If you have an abnormal Pap smear, your doctor may contact you to schedule a colposcopy. This procedure takes about 15 minutes and uses a microscope to see things that are not visible to the naked eye. After a speculum is placed in the vagina and a vinegar solution is placed on the cervix, the colposcope is used to visualize any precancerous changes that have taken place. One or more biopsies are taken as well as a sampling of the canal that leads to the uterus. Most people feel a cramping sensation during the colposcopy; taking 600 mg ibuprofen (3 Advil) about an hour before can alleviate any pain you might have. You should feel well enough to resume normal activity immediately. ​

Bleeding or brownish-black discharge is normal for several days. ​

Avoid intercourse and tampon use for 72 hours after the colposcopy if biopsies were taken.​

If at any time you are bleeding so heavily that you soak through a maxi pad, call our office. ​

Results of the biopsies take up to 2 weeks and are graded as mild, moderate, or severe. Mildly abnormal cells almost always return to normal with time and just need to be watched closely with frequent Pap smears. ​

Cells that are graded “moderate” or “severe” should be removed. A LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure) can be done in our outpatient surgical suite. This procedure takes 15-20 minutes and removes abnormal cells by cutting away a thin layer of the cervix using a thin wire loop that is attached to an electrical current. A numbing injection is given before the procedure, but if you are very anxious, you should talk to us about other options for anesthesia.​

Mild cramping and ​Watery discharge that is pink or brownish-black can be normal for up to two weeks. ​

Ibuprofen is the best pain reliever for cramping. ​

Avoid intercourse and tampon use for two weeks. ​

Call if you have heavy bleeding. ​

You must be monitored closely after an abnormal Pap smear to ensure that the cervical cells return to normal. This close surveillance can last for several years—we usually recommend going back to annual screening after you have several normal Pap smears in a row.​

Discover our services. Contact us at (785) 776-1400.