Gynecologic (Women’s) Health
Student Health Services provides annual physical and gynecologic (women’s) health exams. Our doctors and nurse practitioners also provide evaluation and treatment of gynecological concerns, including urinary tract infections and menstrual irregularities. We can discuss issues and concerns related to your health and/or sexual health, including birth control options and pregnancy counseling. Call 703-993-2831 to schedule an appointment.
Our providers may refer a patient to a gynecological/obstetrics healthcare provider in the community when the care required goes beyond the scope of our practice.
Annual health exams are important for students, regardless of sex assigned at birth, gender, sexual orientation, and whether or not you are sexually active.
Annual Physical and Gynecologic Health Exam
Student Health offers routine annual physical and gynecologic health exams by appointment only. There is a fee for this service.
An annual exam may include the following, as indicated by your age and risk factors, or as recommended by your heath care provider:
- Time to speak with your health care provider and ask questions about your health
- Discussion of health topics relevant to your age and risk factors
- Exams and screening tests
- A pelvic exam to check your vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, rectum, and pelvis, including your ovaries
- A breast exam to check for lumps, skin changes, or nipple discharge
- Cervical cancer screening (Pap test) when indicated
- Gonorrhea/Chlamydia screening
- HIV/Syphilis test
- HPV/DNA*
- Immunizations
*For those 30 years of age and older, Student Health performs the recommended HPV/DNA test in addition to the standard cervical cancer screening (Pap test). The fee includes both the Pap and HPV/DNA.
The Health Information Translations website has health exam and pap information in multiple languages (including Chinese, Arabic, Russian, Korean, and Spanish), click to go to website.
Preparing for your exam
- Arrive 15-20 minutes before your appointment. Be prepared to fill out information regarding your personal and family medical history.
- It is best to schedule a Pap test approximately 2 weeks after your menstrual period starts.
- If you are having your menstrual period, please call Student Health regarding rescheduling your appointment.
- At least 48 hours before your exam, avoid sexual intercourse and any type of vaginal penetration (even if using a condom) and do not douche and or use any vaginal medications.
- Please do not urinate 2 hours before your appointment. Be prepared to give a urine specimen before your exam.
- If you are experiencing any signs of a vaginal infection, you might need to reschedule your cervical cancer screening (Pap test). Your provider will examine you for the possible infection, and let you know if you will need to reschedule.
Birth Control
Student Health Services providers can discuss birth control (contraceptive) options with students. They also provide contraception counseling, including abstinence support education.
Prescriptions can be written for contraceptives. Most prescriptions can be filled at a local pharmacy. Referrals can be given for students seeking the hormonal implant, IUD’s, and barrier method fittings. Emergency contraception is available for free at Student Health clinics.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Our healthcare providers can provide testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and information about STI and prevention.
Pregnancy
Student Health offers pregnancy testing and counseling. Pregnancy testing has a fee. Our healthcare providers are available to discuss options, resources, and services available.
Free menstrual supplies
Students have access to free menstrual supplies on Mason’s campuses in Aunt Flow dispensers.
Additional Resources
Women’s Health topics (Medline Plus)
Center of Excellence for Transgender Health
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Health Information (CDC)