Gynecology - the Specialty for Women's Health
Welcome to women’s health services, where we offer comprehensive gynecology and women’s health care for every stage of life. Whether you’re a mother, daughter, sister, or aunt, we’re here to support you in taking the very best care of your health.
Our Commitment to Women
Our commitment is to provide you with the highest quality women-centered healthcare, offering a wide range of services tailored to keep you healthy and strong. Gynecology focuses on the reproductive system, breasts, and pelvic area, addressing women’s unique health needs throughout every stage of life. While primary care doctors provide essential services like Pap smears and birth control, gynecologists focus exclusively on reproductive health. With their advanced training, they are equipped to manage a variety of gynecologic concerns, ensuring you receive the dedicated and expert care you deserve.
When to See a Gynecologist
Your First Visit to the Gynecologist
Your first visit to the gynecologist is an important step. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggest that people assigned female at birth should have their first appointment between ages 13 and 15. All women should begin cervical cancer screenings by the age of 21.
Your Last Visit to the Gynecologist
There’s no exact age for your last visit. Women over 66 may no longer need Pap tests if their recent ones were normal, but gynecologist visits are still helpful for many things. Whether it’s managing symptoms like dryness, painful intercourse, or bladder concerns after menopause, your gynecologist can support your needs as you age.
Prioritizing Women's Health Concerns
There are certain conditions that are best treated by the specialty of a gynecologist. If you notice any of the issues listed below, don’t wait—schedule a visit to our gynecologist.
- Painful or Irregular Periods:
If your menstrual cycle is causing significant discomfort or irregularities, it could indicate conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or hormonal imbalances. Around 1 in 10 women experience endometriosis during their reproductive years, which can often go undiagnosed. - Severe Pelvic Pain:
Intense pelvic pain, especially outside of your menstrual cycle, could be a sign of an underlying condition such as ovarian cysts or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). It’s essential to get this evaluated by a specialist who can provide proper treatment. - Recurring Infections:
Experiencing frequent vaginal or urinary tract infections (UTIs)? These recurring issues may need more specialized care. Around 50-60% of women will experience a UTI in their lifetime, and gynecologists can offer solutions that go beyond typical treatments. - Concerns Post-Sexual Assault:
Gynecologists are trained to offer compassionate care and necessary exams following sensitive situations, like sexual assault. If you’re navigating health concerns related to this, you’ll find the understanding and support you need with a gynecologist. - Complex Birth Control Needs:
If you have health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or lupus, choosing the best birth control method may be more nuanced. A gynecologist can help find the safest and most effective options for you. For instance, some hormonal contraceptives may not be ideal for women with specific health risks.
Gynecological Care at Your Medical Home
We’re here to care for your well-being and to provide the guidance and counseling you need to make the best decisions for your health. Recognizing that every woman is unique, we commit to offering personalized care tailored to your specific needs. We proudly embrace the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model, placing you at the center of everything we do. This approach allows us to coordinate and provide comprehensive healthcare focused on your overall well-being. Our dedicated team collaborates to ensure that all your healthcare needs are met, creating a seamless experience whether you visit one of our primary care providers or our gynecologist.
You can access our women’s health services at all our locations, with gynecology care available at Huntsville Family Health Center. Our gynecology team offers a variety of services to support your health, including:
- Treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding
- Pregnancy diagnosis
- Initial ultrasound
- Hormonal imbalance evaluations
- Pelvic pain treatment
- Incontinence and pelvic prolapse care
- Perimenopause and menopause
- Family Planning Services
- Reproductive Health
- Wellness Exams
- STI Screenings
About Our Gynecologist- Dr. Kimberly Cox:
Kimberly Cox, gynecologist, completed residencies in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Family Medicine at Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, Virginia. She provides gynecological care at Huntsville Family Health Center.