Women's Health Specialist
-
- Tweet
Robert L. Stephenson, M.D.
Internal Medicine Physician located in Encinitas, CA
Women face complex health needs because of their complicated reproductive systems. At his practice in Encinitas, California, Robert L. Stephenson, MD, offers compassionate and comprehensive women’s health services for women of all ages. Whether you need a Pap smear or menopause management support, Dr. Stephenson offers patient-focused care to help you lead a healthy and active life. Schedule an appointment today by calling his practice or booking online.
Women's Health Q & A
What are common women’s health issues?
Women’s health encompasses the unique needs of a female body including menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, and conditions that affect the reproductive organs. Some of the prevalent women’s health conditions include:
- Irregular periods
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Uterine fibroids and polyps
- Endometriosis
- Cervical cancer
- Breast cancer
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) and other STDs
- Menopause symptoms
Dr. Stephenson offers comprehensive care to address women’s health needs at every stage of life. Whether you need contraception advice or want to find out what’s causing your irregular periods, he provides testing, diagnosis, and treatment to improve your health and well-being.
Why do I need to have a Pap smear?
Cervical cancer, like most cancers, doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms in its early stages and a Pap smear is the only way to diagnose the condition before it severely impacts your health.
A Pap smear is a quick and simple test during which Dr. Stephenson takes a small sample of your cervical cells with a small brush. He sends the sample to a lab where it’s tested for abnormalities. He can perform an HPV test at the same time.
You should have your first Pap smear around your 21st birthday, or earlier if you’re sexually active. In most cases, you should have a Pap smear every three years. However, if your risk of cervical cancer is increased, you may need more frequent tests. Dr. Stephenson can provide customized advice on how often you should have Pap smears.
How often should I have a well-woman appointment?
You should have a well-woman appointment once a year. It’s an opportunity to check in on your health and have the critical health screenings to ensure you’re healthy and fit. Dr. Stephenson checks your blood pressure, respiration, and other standard physical tests as well as performing any female-specific tests including Pap smears, breast exams, or pelvic exams.
Your well-woman appointment is an excellent opportunity to ask questions about any new symptoms you’re having or changes to your health. For example, if you need information about the many different options for contraception or if you are suffering from menopause symptoms such as hot flashes or irritability, Dr. Stephenson can provide customized advice and treatments to help you improve your overall wellness.
Call Dr. Stephenson or make an appointment online today for expert women’s health care.
