Many women put off their gynecology checkup out of embarrassment, because they can't describe what they feel in English, or because they are nervous about what will happen. Being able to talk in your own language changes the whole experience. Here is how a gynecology visit works at our clinic, what to prepare and when you shouldn't wait.
What do we handle at the visit?
We provide gynecology care in Spanish and handle the most common needs: Pap smears, vaginal cultures, infection treatment, pregnancy tests, birth control and pelvic or pregnancy ultrasound.
How does the visit go, step by step?
- A private conversation. We ask about your last period, your symptoms, past pregnancies and the birth control you use. Everything you share is confidential.
- The exam. If a pelvic exam is needed, we explain beforehand what will be done and why. You can ask for another staff member to be present, or bring someone with you.
- Samples, when needed: Pap smear, vaginal culture or pregnancy test.
- A plan. We tell you what we found, what treatment comes next and when to come back. If you need medication, we give you the prescription and instructions.
You can ask us to stop or ask questions at any point. It is your body and your visit.
Getting ready for a Pap smear
- Try not to schedule it during your period; if it starts, let us know and we will reschedule.
- For the two days before, avoid douching, vaginal suppositories, vaginal creams and intercourse, since they can affect the sample.
- Bring the date and result of your last Pap smear, if you have them.
What if my Pap smear is abnormal?
Don't panic. An abnormal result almost never means cancer: most of the time it reflects mild changes caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), which the body often clears on its own. Depending on the result, the next step may be repeating the test, an HPV test or a colposcopy, which is a closer look at the cervix with a specialist. We explain what your result means.
When shouldn't you wait for a routine checkup?
- Discharge with a bad odor, itching or burning.
- Bleeding between periods or after sex.
- Pelvic pain that doesn't go away.
- A late period when pregnancy is possible.
- A lump or change in your breast.
For severe pain, heavy bleeding or a high fever during pregnancy, go to the emergency room.
Why does doing it in Spanish matter?
Because the details matter: when the symptom started, what the discharge looks like, exactly what hurts. Explaining it in your own words avoids misunderstandings and means you leave knowing what you have and what to do. You can also ask about birth control, sex or menopause without feeling awkward.
Your visit on Bellfort Avenue
At Clínica Hispana Nueva Salud (7640 Bellfort Ave, Suite A, Houston 77061) we see patients with no appointment and no insurance required, Monday through Sunday from 9 AM to 9 PM. To find out which screenings you need at your age, read our women's health guide. Phone and WhatsApp: (832) 831-4016.
