If you're younger than 21, you may have questions about the changes your body is undergoing. Maybe you've had your first menstrual period; maybe you have questions about sex. A gynecologist can address all your concerns.   The recommended age for starting to see a gynecologist is 21, as this is when you should start having your routine Pap smears and pelvic exams; however, problems like irregular periods can come up long before that.   Today, we’re going to explain in detail

Whether you have your teeth checked at the dentist's office or have regular eye exams, it is essential to stay on top of your health. The same goes for gynecology exams. These exams allow you to make sure your body is in good physical condition. According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a woman’s first reproductive health visit should occur for adolescents between ages 13-15, annual and pelvic exams should begin at age 19, and pap tests should beg

Lichen Sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most commonly affects the vulva in women. Although it can occur at any age, it is most frequently diagnosed in postmenopausal women and can significantly impact comfort, sexual function, and quality of life if left untreated. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to relieve symptoms, prevent scarring, and reduce long-term complications. At Complete Healthcare in Richland, WA, we routinely evalua

Having joined the Complete Healthcare for Women team in the summer of 2020, Kortney Jones, an advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP), is a family practice nurse practitioner who provides high-quality healthcare for women at all stages of life.   Kortney Jones received her nursing degree from Columbia Basin College in Richland, Washington, and earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Washington State University. Kortney also chose to pursue further studies and compl

Vaginismus  is a condition where the pelvic floor muscles involuntarily contract with attempted penetration, causing pain, burning, tightness, or inability to tolerate vaginal entry. It may occur with intercourse, tampon use, or even pelvic exams. It is treatable, and most patients improve significantly with a structured approach. 1. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: First-Line Treatment This is the cornerstone of management. A trained pelvic floor therapist focuses on: Teaching

Breast cancer screening saves lives. One of the most common questions women ask is when they should begin getting mammograms. At Complete Healthcare in Richland, WA, we follow ACOG's evidence-based guidance to help women make informed decisions about breast health. For most women at average risk, routine screening mammography should begin at age 40. Why Mammograms Matter Mammograms are specialized X-ray studies designed to detect breast cancer early, often before symptoms suc

Understanding NeuroStar TMS Depression and other mood disorders are often thought of as “chemical imbalances,” but modern research shows they are also problems of brain network activity . Some areas that regulate mood become underactive, and communication between brain regions can become disrupted. NeuroStar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)  is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment designed to target these brain circuits directly. Unlike medications that work systemic

Circumcision is a common and often deeply personal decision for parents of newborn boys. Whether it’s based on cultural, religious, or medical preferences, it’s important to understand what the procedure involves - especially when it’s done during the first weeks of life. At Complete Healthcare in Richland, WA, we offer newborn circumcision using the Plastibell technique , a safe and widely used method designed for comfort and ease during healing. If you're considering circum

Breast pain, also called mastalgia, is one of the most common breast-related concerns women experience at some point in their lives.

Complete Healthcare | Richland, WA For women who are trying to conceive and experiencing irregular ovulation or anovulation, two of the most commonly prescribed oral medications are Femara  and Clomid . These medications are often first-line treatments in fertility care and can be highly effective when used appropriately. At Complete Healthcare in Richland, WA, ovulation induction is tailored to each patient’s medical history, hormone profile, and reproductive goals. Below is

A Bartholin cyst or abscess is a common and often uncomfortable condition that affects women, particularly during the reproductive years. While many Bartholin cysts are painless and resolve on their own, others can become infected, leading to a painful abscess that requires medical treatment. At Complete Healthcare in Richland, WA, we frequently evaluate and treat Bartholin gland cysts and abscesses. Understanding the difference between the two and knowing when to seek care c

Pregnancy is a time when many women carefully evaluate lifestyle habits to protect the health of their developing baby. Two increasingly common exposures are vaping (e-cigarettes) and marijuana use. Although these are sometimes perceived as safer alternatives to traditional tobacco or other medications, current medical evidence and guidance from ACOG emphasize caution and avoidance during pregnancy. Why Substance Exposure Matters in Pregnancy Anything inhaled, ingested, or ab

Spironolactone is a medication commonly used to treat conditions such as high blood pressure, heart failure, and specific hormonal imbalances. However, its use during pregnancy raises essential questions for women who are planning to conceive or are already pregnant. Understanding how spironolactone interacts with pregnancy can help women make informed decisions about their health and the health of their baby. Spironolactone Spironolactone is a medication frequently prescribe

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, the tissue covering the head (glans) of the penis. When Is Circumcision Done? Circumcision is usually performed shortly after the baby is born. How Is Circumcision Done? At Complete Healthcare for Women, we use lidocaine to provide pain relief. We also use sugar water to soothe the baby during the procedure. During a circumcision, the foreskin is freed from the head of the penis, and the excess foreskin is removed by way o

For many women, UTIs aren’t just a one-time issue. They often become a recurring problem that interferes with daily life. This situation raises concerns about long-term health. At Complete Healthcare for Women in Richland, WA, we treat many patients who face the frustration of recurrent UTIs . We're here to help you understand the causes and, more importantly, the solutions. What Is a UTI? A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when bacteria, most commonly E. coli , enter t