Health & Wellness

Midwifery

As a woman, you have a lot on your plate and your health might not be your top priority. But a strong and healthy body is the foundation for a fulfilling life. Your well-being impacts your career, relationships and family – so when you’re tempted to put off that appointment, test or screening - remember that by taking care of yourself, you’re actually prioritizing all the things that are most important to you.

Health isn’t just about not being sick – it’s a holistic view of your general well-being that includes mind, body and community. At Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, we provide women with the resources to thrive in all aspects of wellness.

Physical and Well Checks

Who Should I see for My Annual Checkup? 

There is no one way to manage your health when it comes to choosing a health care provider. Based on your age, medical history and health concerns, you may have one or more physicians or providers you see on a regular basis. For most women, there are several providers to consider: 

  • Gynecologist or Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM): You should see a gynecologist or CNM for a well-woman visit every year after age 21. You can talk to your provider about any concerns you have regarding your pelvic health, reproductive organs or other health issues.  
  • Internal Medicine Providers: Internal medicine providers (or internists) specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease in adults. You might prefer to see an internal medicine provider if you have a history of health issues or are also managing a chronic illness with or without the care of a specialist. You can see an internist for annual well-checks and as needed for ongoing health issues.
  • Primary Care Providers: Primary care providers see patients of all ages and are trained in the prevention, diagnosis and ongoing care of their patients. Your primary care provider benefits from knowing your health history and working with you to develop healthy habits, address health concerns and refer you to a specialist if necessary. You can see a primary care provider for annual physicals and well checks.
  • Family Medicine Providers: Family medicine providers treat patients of all ages and often entire families. Family medicine providers benefit from understanding the holistic circumstances of the patient in the context of their family and community. You can see a family medicine provider for annual physicals and well checks.
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Women’s Health Issues

Holistic Women's Health

At Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, our approach to women’s health is holistic and multidisciplinary. That means we have specialists who can help with the prevention and treatment of any health issue that arises, including:

  • Mammograms and Breast Imaging: Prevention is the best medicine. Women ages 40 and older should be screened yearly for the early detection of breast cancer. If you are younger than 40 and considered high-risk, because of a family history of breast cancer or other factors, talk to your provider about the right time to start being screened.
  • Heart and Vascular Care: Women should know that heart disease is the leading cause of death amongst women in the United States. The good news is that you can take steps to lower your risk of heart disease. Talk to your primary care provider first, and they can refer you to a cardiologist for testing and specialized care, if necessary.
  • Gynecologic Cancer: The five major types of gynecologic cancer are cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal and vulvar. Board-certified and fellowship-trained gynecologic oncologists can help diagnose and treat these cancers with specialized expertise.
  • Nutrition: Nutrition is an essential element of overall health – and women have unique psychological and metabolic relationships with food. A registered dietitian can help you develop healthy eating habits and address unhealthy ones. Nutrition counseling can also be helpful in the management of other conditions like diabetes and cancer, as well as before and during pregnancy.
  • Behavioral Health: Some behavioral and mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, are more common in women than in men. Hormonal fluctuations during and after pregnancy or menopause can also impact women’s mental health. If you are concerned about an aspect of your mental health, talk to your primary care provider.

Why Choose Virginia Mason Franciscan Health?

Locations

Throughout the Region

Primary and specialty care services are located throughout the Puget Sound, so you can get the care you need close to home.

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Expert Providers

Providing Trusted Care

From primary care through all types of specialty care, a range of women’s health care providers are available to meet your unique needs.

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Screenings and Prevention

Stay Informed, Stay Healthy

Our holistic approach means we provide screening and tests for many illnesses and conditions.

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Your Biggest Health Questions, Answered

Having your baby with CHI Franciscan Health

You’ve got questions, but they aren’t always easy to ask. This guide answers some of women’s biggest health concerns, such as:

  • What’s a “normal” menstrual cycle?
  • What should I expect during menopause?
  • Am I the only one with incontinence?
  • What’s the difference between a traditional and minimally invasive hysterectomy?
  • What screenings should I get at my age?
  • How do I choose the right provider for well-woman care?

For definitive answers and treatment plans, of course you’ll want to see your gynecologist or other care provider. But this guide will help you start to understand the health issues most important to you, and better prepare you for your next appointment.