Staying healthy is important.

Whether you're young or old, married or single, sexually active or not, good gynecological care is key. Women who are over age 18 or have ever had sex should have a routine gynecological exam at least once each year to promote good health. Routine gynecological care:

• prevents illness and discomfort
• allows for early detection of cancers of the breasts and cervix when they are more curable
• detects sexually transmitted infections (STI) and other conditions before they cause serious damage
• helps prevent sterility
• promotes healthy pregnancy and childbirth

It takes teamwork.

It takes teamwork between you and your clinician to have good health. Your job is to learn how your body works and what is normal for you, and speak up about it. Your clinician's job is to help you identify problems before they become serious and to provide care if you become ill.

Be responsible for your needs.

A key factor in promoting good health is being open and honest with your clinician about your sexual health needs. One out of four women has a sexually transmitted infection in her lifetime. STIs can cause sterility and cancer, as well as problems with pregnancy, childbirth, and infant health. Very often, women have no symptoms. Yet, many doctors do not automatically test for STIs, so patients must speak up and make a point to request regular screenings.

For questions about gynecological exams, STI screenings, or to schedule an appointment, call a health center near you.