What Is Well-Women Care?
- Makayla McRorie
- Oct 4
- 4 min read
Well-women care is a proactive, comprehensive approach to women’s health that focuses on prevention, early detection, and personalized support across the lifespan. It combines routine screenings, preventive services, and wellness counseling to keep women healthy physically and emotionally. Care is tailored to each stage—from adolescence and reproductive years to menopause and beyond—ensuring needs evolve with life’s changes. Below is our overview of what well-women care includes and how Haven Women’s Health and Birth Center supports women in every season.
What Is Well-Women Care?
Well-women care refers to routine and preventive health services specifically designed for people with female reproductive anatomy. It emphasizes screening for common conditions (like cervical and breast cancer), reproductive health management, immunizations, lifestyle counseling, and mental health support.
The goal is to maintain overall wellness, catch issues early, and provide personalized guidance aligned with each patient’s medical history and life goals.
At Haven Women’s Health and Birth Center in Cary, NC, we offer highly personalized routine pelvic exams and Pap smears to help catch any issues early, even when you feel fine. Our certified nurse midwives take time to listen, answer your questions, and give you the peace of mind you deserve.
Well-Women Care Services
Annual well-woman exams
These exams review medical history, perform a physical exam, and address reproductive health concerns. These visits often include blood pressure, BMI, and discussions about contraception, menstrual health, sexual health, and lifestyle factors.
Cervical cancer screening (Pap test and HPV testing)
Cervical screening detects precancerous changes and HPV infection before symptoms arise. Frequency and method depend on age and medical history; providers tailor recommendations to minimize unnecessary testing while maximizing preventive benefit.
Breast health screening and clinical breast exam
Clinical breast exams and education on breast awareness help detect changes early alongside recommended mammography when age-appropriate or risk-based. In these appointments, providers discuss risk factors and personalized screening plans.
Sexual and reproductive health care
This includes contraception counseling and management, preconception planning, STI testing and treatment, and counseling around fertility concerns. Care is nonjudgmental, evidence-based, and tailored to each person’s preferences and goals.
Preventive immunizations and screenings
Well-woman care incorporates vaccinations (e.g., HPV, flu) and routine screenings such as blood tests for cholesterol, glucose, and thyroid function when indicated. These measures help prevent disease and identify metabolic or endocrine issues early.
Behavioral health and wellness support
Screening for anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns, plus referrals or integrated behavioral health services, helps address emotional well-being. At Haven, we have many external resources and referrals available to you should you desire to take the next step and seek counseling for stress, sleep, substance use, and body image.
Nutrition, weight, and lifestyle counseling
Personalized guidance on diet, physical activity, and healthy habits helps prevent chronic disease and supports reproductive and overall health. Care plans consider cultural preferences, life stage, and realistic goals.
Chronic disease prevention and management
Well-woman care includes screening and management plans for diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disease, and other chronic conditions to minimize complications and maintain quality of life.
Supporting You In Every Stage and Season at Haven Women's Health and Birth Center
Haven Women’s Health and Birth Center provides individualized well-woman care that honors each person’s health history, values, and goals. Appointments are designed to be thorough, compassionate, and empowering, with clinicians who prioritize prevention, informed choice, and positive language around birth and reproductive care.
Note: Haven charges an out-of-network fee of $260 for all well-woman appointments; clients can submit this fee to their HSA or insurance for reimbursement.
Schedule a tour to see our welcoming space and learn how we personalize every appointment to your medical and personal needs.
Ready to learn more? Contact Haven to book a visit and discover care tailored to your life.
FAQs
How often should I have a well-woman exam?
Most people benefit from an annual well-woman visit, though the frequency of specific screenings may vary by age, risk factors, and health history.
What screenings are included in a well-woman visit?
Common components include a physical exam, cervical cancer screening (Pap/HPV when indicated), breast health review, immunization checks, and relevant lab tests based on age and risk.
Is the $260 out-of-network fee required, and can I get reimbursed?
Yes, Haven charges a $260 out-of-network fee for well-woman appointments. You can submit the receipt to your HSA or insurance for potential reimbursement.
Will my well-woman visit include birth-related counseling?
Yes—if desired, clinicians provide preconception counseling, birth education, and positive, empowering guidance about labor and birth options tailored to your goals.
Are mental health and lifestyle concerns addressed during visits?
Absolutely. Well-woman care at Haven includes screening for mental health needs and personalized counseling or referrals for nutrition, exercise, and stress management.
At what age should cervical cancer screening begin?
Cervical screening generally begins around age 21. However, specific timing and intervals depend on guidelines and personal medical history. Your provider will recommend a tailored schedule!
Can I get contraception and STI testing at my well-woman visit?
Yes! Most well-woman appointments include contraception counseling/management and STI screening or testing as needed.
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