Maggi Bridwell
Center for Women's Health

Women's Health is staffed by a physician, physician's assistant and several certified registered nurse practitioners (CRNP). CRNP's are trained in the examination, diagnosis, and treatment of healthy patients as well as those with common problems. The staff is experienced in responding to the sexual health needs of a college student population.

A few things to keep in mind

• Ask questions! You will probably be nervous, so write down your questions ahead of time and bring them with you.
• If interested in birth control, consider what method you would like to use. To help make this decision, make an appointment with Women's Health at 301-314-8190.
• Know the date of the first day of your last menstrual period.
• You should not be menstruating on the day of the exam.
• Avoid sexual intercourse, tampons, douching, and vaginal medications for at least 2 days prior to your visit.

Revised 1/04

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Annual Gynecology Exam

The exam includes a routine breast and pelvic exam, Pap smear, chlamydia screen and gonorrhea culture. A complete blood count (CBC), and syphilis screen (RPR) may be performed, if indicated. If you have never had a pelvic exam, you should attend a Women's Health Education Session. These sessions are offered for individuals, couples, and groups. A peer S.H.A.R.E. (Sexual Health and Reproductive Education) educator will explain the pelvic exam, provide an overview of available birth control methods, answer your questions, and provide you with reading material. Call 301-314-8190 to schedule an appointment.
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Colposcopy

We offer colposcopy, a procedure that is recommended after certain types of abnormal Pap smears. Colposcopies are performed at two scheduled times per month or can be done on an individual basis.
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Contraceptive (birth control) Services

At Women's Health, students can obtain prescriptions for oral contraceptives (birth control pills), the vaginal ring (Nuva Ring), the contraceptive patch (Ortho-Evra), diaphragms, emergency contraceptive pills and Depo Provera injections. Diaphragm checks and instructions on other forms of birth control are offered as well. Referrals for IUD's and Natural Family Planning instruction are given upon request.

In general, it is strongly encouraged that you attend an education session, and have had a routine GYN exam, including a Pap smear, within one year in order to receive a prescription for contraception. This exam can be done at Women's Health or you can request that a copy of your records from another facility be sent to Women's Health. Fax: 301-314-3596

Prescription refills can be obtained by appointment in Women's Health.
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Pregnancy Testing

Pregnancy tests, usually a blood test, are offered through Women's Health. Pregnancy testing is performed on a walk-in basis; please call Women's Health for instructions first. Results are not given over the phone. A trained counselor will meet with you to give you the results and to offer referrals and support services as needed.
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Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP)

The emergency contraceptive pill is available on a walk-in basis during all University Health Center hours of operation. Please note that the ECP are most effective when taken within 120 hours of unprotected intercourse.
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Sexually Transmitted Infection Treatment

Women's Health routinely screens and treats the following:

• Genital Warts (HPV)
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Herpes
• Syphilis

HIV (AIDS) testing is offered with pre- and post-test counseling by trained HIV counselors. You must make an appointment by calling 301-314-8184. The cost of the visit is $25.00 and the results are available on the same day. The Prince George's County Health Department offers free HIV testing. Call 301-386-0350 for more information.
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Fees

Currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate students will be assessed a $10 co-pay for the office visit. You will also be charged for laboratory tests, x-rays, pharmacy services, and colposcopy.

Non-registered students, visitors, and faculty or staff members can be seen for acute illness and will be assessed a $50 visitor's fee. Fees will be billed to you and listed in a way that ensures confidentiality. To avoid billing, fees are payable at the pharmacy on the day of your visit. back to top

Insurance

It is important to have health insurance at all times. If you are not covered under your parents' or spouse's health insurance, the University Health Center offers an insurance plan at student rates. For more information, contact the Insurance Clerk at the University Health Center, 301-314-8165. back to top

Eligibility

Undergraduate and graduate women, currently enrolled, are eligible for Women's Health services.

Patient Confidentiality

Complete medical records are maintained on all University Health Center patients. All information in these records is confidential--only authorized University Health Center personnel have access to them. Faculty, University administrators, police, and parents do not have access to patient medical records.

Mental Health Service records are kept separately from other medical records in the University Health Center.

To release your records to outside health care practitioners, employers, etc., you must sign a release form. back to top

Appointments

Appointments for Women's Health can be made in person or by phone (301-314-8190) Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm. Same-day appointments are limited. If you feel that you have an emergency that requires prompt attention, call 301-314-8190.
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