Women's Health

By Anne Brown, MD, FACOG

Capital Women's Care

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Women's Health

Patients in this day and age want to have the best, most convenient and affordable healthcare. You want the best doctor, the most accurate testing, and to be able to get what you need in the most comfortable and convenient setting.

This is why many doctors offer as many services right in their offices. And, in many cases, testing and procedures can be done in the office to make it more convenient and affordable for patients. So let's look at some of the services now available.

Office Gyn Surgery

Many doctor's offices offer patients minor surgical procedures in the office. Examples include hysteroscopy (using a fiberoptic scope), cervical surgery for abnormal Pap smear results (such as LEEP or cervical conization), biopsies of the vulva or vagina, removal of external cysts or lesions, D & C for abnormal bleeding or miscarriages, removal of IUDs, sterilization via Essure, and endometrial ablations for abnormally heavy periods.

For some procedures, an anesthesia professional may be present to provide monitoring and sedation during the procedure. Most patients are good candidates for in-office procedures, but there are cases where the patient may not qualify.

There is often a significant cost savings to both the patient and their insurance company. Additionally, the time commitment is often also significantly reduced. As with any procedure, you still a need to fast beforehand and have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you.

Most of these procedures do not require strong pain medication afterwards and most do not usually lead to any significant discomfort. Many patients who experience a lot of anxiety about medical procedures find the office setting much more welcoming and comfortable. They often know the personnel already reducing their anxiety.

Office Ultrasound

ObGyn offices often provide ultrasound, but many also provide experienced ultrasound technicians and high tech equipment to help make the testing more convenient for patients. For many patients, this saves time and there is sometimes a cost savings as well. It can also be comforting to be in familiar surroundings.

When there are emergencies such as bleeding in pregnancy, the study can be performed on the spot in order to provide a diagnosis and oftentimes reassurance to worried patients. Special procedures such as, sonohysterograms can also be performed by your own physician in the office setting. Ask if your provider is able to provide these services for you in their office.