Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky marks National Women’s Health Week by emphasizing importance of wellness visits and preventive care

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(Indianapolis, Ind.)  -- During National Women’s Health Week (May 10-16), Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky (PPINK) is highlighting the need for regular wellness visits and preventive health care as a critical part of staying healthy for women of all ages.

“Well-woman visits are a critical part of keeping women healthy,” said Betty Cockrum, president and CEO of PPINK. “Well-woman visits help providers learn more about your health and family history in order to help you stay healthy, and are a chance to make sure that you’re using the birth control method that best fits your needs.”

In Kentucky, well-woman visits are particularly critical, given the state’s high rate of cervical cancer. During a well-woman visit, a health care provider will determine if a Pap test is recommended to screen for cervical cancer. Pap tests can be done as part of a regular well-woman visit.

While the incidence of cervical cancer has decreased in the Commonwealth, statistics show that the incidence of death from cervical cancer is increasing. Because cervical cancer is highly treatable if detected early, this trend indicates that Kentucky women are not receiving the regular Pap tests they need.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 8 million women ages 21 to 65 have not been screened for cervical cancer in the past five years. 

Some women may be unsure about comfort and confidentiality, especially if they haven't had a well-woman visit before. Planned Parenthood’s online resources and highly trained staff can walk them through the process and give them a clear sense of what to expect.

“At PPINK, we know that for most women, their reproductive health care provider is an essential element of basic health care. We are proud to be a source of preventive care for women in the Commonwealth and to answer any questions they may have,” Cockrum continued.  “PPINK and our health clinic staff members are here to provide accurate, nonjudgmental information and advice.”

Nationally, one in five women has turned to Planned Parenthood at some point in her life for affordable, high-quality health care in a non-judgmental, confidential setting.

PPINK has health centers in Louisville and Lexington. To make an appointment, please contact 800-230-PLAN or visit www.ppink.org to schedule an online appointment.  

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Planned Parenthood is the nation's leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable health care for women, men, and young people, as well as the nation's largest provider of sex education. With approximately 700 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect and without judgment. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable health information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives.