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Gynecology FAQs
What is a Pap test?
A Pap test looks for abnormal cells in the cervix that may lead to cancer of the cervix. The sample of cervical cells is sent to a lab, where it is examined under a microscope for signs of abnormal changes.
What is HPV?
HPV stands for “human papillomavirus.” This common virus can cause genital warts and cervical cancer.
How is HPV linked to cervical cancer?
Certain “high-risk” types of HPV cause cervical cancer. For most women, HPV may not cause problems. For some women, HPV may cause abnormal cells on their cervix. These abnormal cells can develop into cervical cancer if not detected and treated early.
How do you get HPV?
HPV is spread through intimate (genital) skin-to-skin contact, usually during sexual intercourse. Your chance of getting HPV increases if you have more than one sexual partner. But you can get the virus from just one person. The virus can “hide” in your cervix for months or years before it causes abnormal cell changes. Therefore, you may not be able to know for certain when you got an HPV infection.
What is an HPV test?
The HPV test looks for the virus that causes cervical cancer. The sample of cells is sent to a lab, where advanced molecular technology is used to detect high-risk types of HPV. The HPV test plus the Pap test lets you and your healthcare provider know if you are at risk for cervical cancer and need additional testing.
How do I schedule an urgent appointment?
We will have you speak with one of our phone nurses who will assess your situation and determine the most appropriate next step, whether that is an appointment, a referral, a prescription, etc.
When should my daughter schedule her first exam?
We will need a Medical Records Release Form completed and either faxed, mailed or brought to the office. By law, we are required to provide your records within 30 days if they are stored onsite or within 60 days if they are stored offsite, however, typically we complete your requests sooner. If you are requesting your records be sent directly to another provider for collaborative care, there is no charge. If you are requesting a copy for any other purpose, there will be a charge. A Medical Records Release Form is not required for us to send your records to your primary care provider or a provider to whom we have referred you. If you have any questions, please contact our Medical Records Department.
How can cervical cancer be prevented?
There are two tests that can identify your cervical cancer risk: A Pap test and an HPV test. A sample of cells is collected from your cervix during your gynecology exam.
Mammography FAQs
What Should I Know About Breast Cancer?
- One in eight women living in the U.S will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
- Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in U.S. women. It is the leading cause of death in 35 to 65 year old women.
- Approximately 2.4 million American women with a history of breast cancer are alive today.
Early diagnosis is key
There is no disagreement that early and accurate diagnosis of breast cancer is key to improving clinical outcomes. Mammography – and in particular, digital mammography – is now widely regarded as the gold standard for detecting early breast cancer disease. Mammography may detect cancer one and a half to four years before a cancer becomes clinically evident.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breasts, used to detect and diagnose breast diseases. Screening mammography is used as a preventive measure for women who have no symptoms of breast disease and usually involves two views of each breast. A diagnostic mammography involves additional views of the breast, and is used when an abnormality is found during a screening, or in women who have breast complaints, such as a breast mass, nipple discharge, breast pain, or skin irritation.
Who should have a mammogram?
The American Cancer Society and American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend that all women have a baseline screening mammogram between the ages of 35 and 40 and that beginning at the age of 40, women have an annual screening mammogram. Mammograms play a central part in the early detection of breast cancer because they can detect changes in the breast that may be early signs of cancer, but are too small or subtle to be felt.
Who performs my mammography exam?
Your Mammography exam is performed by an MQSA qualified expert and ARRT registry certified mammography technologist. Your exam is then interpreted (read) by an MQSA qualified and board certified radiologist.
What Is a FAST MRI?
A FAST breast MRI is a highly sensitive screening that may detect abnormal breast findings not seen on your mammogram. It takes 15 minutes and does not involve radiation.FAST MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed pictures of the breast. Like an ultrasound, MRI does not use radiation (X-rays) and is not limited by dense breast tissue. MRI uses dye injected into the bloodstream to highlight abnormalities in the breast.
Who Should Have a FAST MRI?
This abbreviated screening MRI is recommended for women who have risk factors such as family history of breast cancer or dense breast tissue. Talk with your physician about whether you need an additional screening exam for breast cancer. You will need an order from your provider to schedule a FAST Breast MRI exam.
How Much Radiation Will I Be Exposed To?
The radiation exposure of 3D mammography is a little more than with 2D mammography. Yet the total dose of the 3D technique is still well within FDA safe limits and much less than the annual exposure everyone receives from natural sources, such as cosmic rays and the soil.
What Can I Expect During My Exam?
The 3D exam will feel very similar to a traditional digital mammogram. The equipment and compression of the breast are almost identical. What’s different is that the x-ray arm sweeps in a slight arc over the breast, taking multiple images in just seconds. High-powered computing will convert the images into a 3D image, which can then be examined by the radiologist one page or “slice” at a time.
When will I hear about my mammography exam results?
If no additional follow-up is needed, you will receive a letter in the mail from Atrium within 5 business days of your exam. Occasionally additional views are needed. If so, you will receive a telephone call from Atrium within 5 business days to notify you of the need to reschedule an appointment. All mammography views taken at Atrium are compared to previous exams done within the last year. If we do not have your previous exam films, the results of your reading may be delayed. Although we will make every effort to have previous films forwarded to our office, if we are unable to obtain these films you will be contacted. If you do not receive the results of your mammogram from us within 15 days, please call 330.649.4219.
Obstetrics FAQs
What should i do if I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant, please call us and we will get you scheduled for an appointment. We will help you find a provider that meets your needs.
When Will I have an Ultrasound?
You will likely be having an ultrasound at your second obstetrical visit. An ultrasound will be performed at approximately 20 weeks to evaluate the baby’s anatomy.
When do I get to hear the heartbeat of my baby for the first time?
Your baby’s heartbeat can be heard around your 12 week prenatal visit.
When can I expect to feel the baby move?
You can expect to begin to feel the baby move at about 20 to 22 weeks of pregnancy. You may not feel daily regular movements until 28 weeks of pregnancy.
Is bleeding or spotting after sex or after a vaginal exam normal during my pregnancy?
It is common to have spotting or bleeding in these situations. The spotting should resolve in about 24 hours. If you experience heavy bleeding (like a period) or prolonged bleeding (longer than 48 hours), you should present to the hospital.
My feet are swollen, is this normal?
Mild swelling of the ankles and legs is related to the normal and necessary increase in body fluids during pregnancy. To ease the discomfort, elevate your legs or lie down when you can, wear comfortable shoes, and light compression socks.
Can I sleep on my back?
You may sleep on your back until the third trimester as long as you are comfortable. At that time, if your uterus compresses your major blood vessels, you may become nauseated or dizzy. Placing a pillow under one hip should prevent these symptoms.
Will it hurt the baby if I don’t take my prenatal vitamins?
Taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid alone during the first trimester may decrease the incidence of neural tube defects like spina bifida. Missing an occasional vitamin does not harm the pregnancy outcomes.
Is it safe to exercise?
Yes. In an uncomplicated pregnancy, we recommend exercise as it makes labor easier and decreases the incidence of pre-term labor as well as cesarean section. If an exercise causes cramping, shortness of breath, or pain, then decrease the intensity or stop exercising and discuss with your doctor
When do I find out the sex of my baby?
Usually around 20 weeks during your anatomy ultrasound (if your baby cooperates during the scan). It is not always possible to see. You can also have a lab draw called Sneak Peek done as early as 6 weeks gestation.
Do I see the same provider throughout my pregnancy?
Atrium Ob/Gyn offers the option to rotate through our healthcare providers throughout your pregnancy. Although we are able to manage your obstetric care in the office during your pregnancy it is important to remember that our providers share on call coverage and we cannot guarantee a provider to deliver your baby.
Billing FAQ
What is a co-payment?
A copayment is the flat fee determined by your insurance company that you pay each time you receive medical care.
What is co-insurance?
Co-insurance is the percentage of your medical bills that you will have to pay, typically after you have paid your deductible.
What is a deductible?
A deductible is the amount you must reach before your insurance company starts paying for your care.
What didn't my insurance pay?
Your insurance company processes claims based on your contract benefits and the best answer to this question will be answered by them.
Do you charge a specialist co-payment for all visits?
Atrium Ob/Gyn, Inc. is a specialist practice. However, co-payments are determined by your insurance company.
General FAQ
How do I get Disability, FMLA, or Other Forms?
We will need a Medical Records Release Form signed prior to completion and release of those forms. The forms will be completed in the order they are received and typically take 7-10 days. Please consider this turn-around time when turning in your forms.
How do i obtain a copy of my medical records?
We will need a Medical Records Release Form completed and either faxed, mailed or brought to the office. By law, we are required to provide your records within 30 days if they are stored onsite or within 60 days if they are stored offsite, however, typically we complete your requests sooner. If you are requesting your records be sent directly to another provider for collaborative care, there is no charge. If you are requesting a copy for any other purpose, there will be a charge. A Medical Records Release Form is not required for us to send your records to your primary care provider or a provider to whom we have referred you. If you have any questions, please contact our Medical Records Department.
Why can't I leave a message on my provider's voicemail?
To assure that every issue is documented in your medical record and you receive the fastest and most appropriate response, we have staff dedicated to taking your message personally and directing it accordingly.
What do I do if I need a prescription refill?
We recommend calling your pharmacy first to ensure accurate and timely refills. If you are out of refills they can send a refill request to us. We do understand there are times you may need to call our office and leave a message for our medical staff.
Why am I asked to verify my identity so many times when I am in the office?
We may ask you to verify your name, social security number and birth date during scheduling and during your office visit. This is for your safety to prevent errors in diagnosis and treatment. We are also complying with national patient safety goals by verifying this information.
How do I schedule an urgent appointment?
We will have you speak with one of our phone nurses who will assess your situation and determine the most appropriate next step, whether that is an appointment, a referral, a prescription, etc.
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