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Women's Healthcare Associates

You're 21-35

Between general good health, disease screening and tackling life’s other issues as they arise, you have a lot to think about. Whether you’re trying—or TRYING NOT—to get pregnant, our providers can help you understand your reproductive health, fertility and contraceptive options so you can enjoy these years, however you plan to spend them.

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Lucky you!

It’s time for your first Pap test! Ok, so maybe it’s not quite as fun as some of the other things going on in your life right now, but cervical cancer screenings, known as Pap tests, begin at age 21 and are an important part of keeping you healthy. During the test, your provider will collect cells from the outside of your cervix. At the lab, your cells will be examined by a pathologist for any changes that might lead to cervical cancer. Good news: if everything is normal your provider could recommend waiting up to three years for your next one! Beginning at age 30, your provider will likely recommend a Pap test together with an HPV test. If both of these are normal, you may be able to go five years between cervical cancer screenings.

Your annual visit is still important

Even if you’re not due for Pap test. Depending on your situation and needs, your visit may include a breast and pelvic exam. Your provider may also listen to your heart and lungs and look at your skin for any obvious changes that could indicate skin cancer.

Preventing pregnancy is part of preventative healthcare

If you have vaginal sex with a sperm producer and don’t want to become pregnant, your provider will probably want to talk about what you’re doing to actively prevent it. This is the perfect time to discuss whether you’re happy with your method of birth control. There are many options available and your provider can help you find the one that works best for you. If you decide to start using a long-acting form of contraception—such as the intrauterine device or contraceptive implant, you may (or may not) need a follow-up visit to have it inserted.

Speaking of pregnancy…

If you are thinking about becoming pregnant, your provider would love to talk to you about how to get ready for that. Being healthy when you conceive will help you have a healthier pregnancy.

Medical records, test results and privacy

WHA is part of a network of providers in the community who share one medical record system, which streamlines your access to your health information, including report results, and makes it easier for us to deliver coordinated care.

Deductibles, copays and more

Insurance is confusing. Learn more about what you should know going into your visit—and how to ask your insurance company for the information you need.

What matters right now

Here are some topics your provider may bring up

Family planning

Family planning involves deciding when—or if—you want to have children, how many to have and taking measure to see your plan through. This includes preconception care and contraception to support your goals.

Relationship health and safety

A healthy relationship is built on trust, respect and open communication. If you feel controlled, unsafe, isolated or fearful, these may be signs of an unhealthy or abusive relationship. Everyone deserves care and connection without fear. Speak with your provider to discuss available support and resources.

Emotional wellbeing

Emotional health is your ability to cope with life’s ups and downs, manage stress and maintain positive relationships. It’s closely connected to mental and physical health. Paying attention to your feelings, getting support when needed and making time for movement and things that bring you joy all support emotional well-being.

Abnormal bleeding

Abnormal menstrual bleeding refers to menstrual cycles that are heavier, longer or more irregular than expected. This can mean soaking a pad or tampon every one to two hours, bleeding for more than seven days or having cycles that are too short (less than 21 days) or too long (more than 35 days). Spotting between periods or after sex can also be a sign of irregular bleeding. Understanding your bleeding patterns can help you recognize when to seek care.

Did you know?

More normal than you think

Heavy menstrual bleeding lasting more than seven days affects about one out of every five women in the U.S.

–Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Contraception

Contraception, aka birth control, helps prevent pregnancy, but it can also be used to manage conditions like painful periods, abnormal bleeding and hormonal imbalances. Options range from pills and IUDs to implants and permanent procedures. Some methods, like condoms, also reduce the risk of STIs. Finding the right birth control for you depends on your lifestyle, health and family planning goals.

Did you know?

Birth control is used for more than contraception; it can be used to ease heavy or painful periods–or to skip periods all together!

Disease prevention

Taking steps to prevent disease can protect your long-term health. Women face unique risks for conditions like heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Regular screenings, healthy lifestyle choices (like exercise, well-rounded nutrition, not smoking and not drinking regularly), along with early intervention can help lower these risks.

Cervical cancer screening

From age 21 through 29, you should have a Pap test to screen for cervical cancer every three years or, as recommended by your provider. Beginning at age 30 (and going until age 65), cervical cancer screening guidelines recommend a Pap test and an HPV test done together. If your results are normal, your provider may recommend waiting up to five years to test again.

STI Screening

Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for sexually transmitted infections. Talk to your provider if you’ve had a new partner since your last test.

HIV Test

Everyone should be tested for HIV at least once. There is no agreement among medical professionals about how often re-testing should occur; your provider may assess your risk and recommend re-testing.

HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine is recommended up to age 26. Even if you’ve tested positive for HPV—the vaccine can protect you against other types of HPV that are also known to cause cancer and genital warts.

Seasonal Flu and COVID Vaccines

Everyone six months and older should receive the flu vaccination every flu season. The flu vaccine is especially important for people with chronic health conditions, pregnant people and older adults. We also recommend staying up to date with COVID vaccination guidelines.

Tdap Vaccine

Every adult should get the Tdap vaccine (if they did not receive it as an adolescent) to protect against pertussis (whooping cough) and a Td (tetanus, diphtheria) booster shot every 10 years. In addition, pregnant people should get the Tdap vaccine sometime between 27 and 36 weeks.

Ways We Care

Gynecology

For all your reproductive parts, from checkups to childbirth, or whatever else.

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Obstetrics

Care to help you through all the changes of pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum.

Learn More →

Nurse-Midwifery

Your lifetime partners in low-intervention care, given with a whole lot of heart.

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Behavioral & Mental Health

People on and by your side during and after pregnancy, prioritizing your needs.

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Let’s talk about it

Recent articles from the WHA blog.
Before is better: a guide to preconception planning and fertility
Kailia Wray, CNM, MN Published Feb 11, 2025

Before is better: a guide to preconception planning and fertility

Read more →
It's a Good Time to Get Your Flu Vaccine
Gary A. Burgoine, MD Published Oct 11, 2023

It's a Good Time to Get Your Flu Vaccine

Read more →
Trouble Conceiving? Possible Causes and Initial Steps in Diagnosing Infertility
WHA Staff Published Apr 24, 2023

Trouble Conceiving? Possible Causes and Initial Steps in Diagnosing Infertility

Read more →
SEE ALL ARTICLES
Fifteen WHA Clinicians Recognized on Portland Monthly’s 2026 Top Medical Providers List
WHA Staff Updated Mar 5, 2026

Fifteen WHA Clinicians Recognized on Portland Monthly’s 2026 Top Medical Providers List

Read more →
Acetaminophen Use in Pregnancy - What Patients Need to Know
WHA Staff Updated Mar 5, 2026

Acetaminophen Use in Pregnancy – What Patients Need to Know

Read more →
Expanded Space at PPMC Brings Dedicated Midwifery Access to WHA's Tabor Clinic
WHA Staff Updated Mar 5, 2026

Expanded Space at PPMC Brings Dedicated Midwifery Access to WHA's Tabor Clinic

Read more →

Additional Resources

Accepted Insurance

WHA takes Medicaid, Medicare and most commercial insurance plans. Check the list of insurance companies WHA is contracted with here.

ACOG Disorders of the Vulva

From the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, answers to frequently asked questions about vulvar health and care options.

ACOG Patient Resources

From the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, find links to frequently asked questions on a wide range of women's health, pregnancy and childbirth and gynecology questions.

Advocates for Youth

Online resources for parents.

Anemia in Pregnancy

Michael P. Smrtka, MD. Perinatal Progress, Volume 9, Number 1. April, 2016.

Antenatal Surveillance Guidelines

July 2021

Approach for Determining Gestational Age

August 2013

Baby Center

A comprehensive online resource for pregnancy and parenting, offering expert articles, week-by-week guides, community forums and tools.

Bedsider

A website about birth control and STDs.

Billing and Collection Practices

What you need to know--before you need to know it.

Billing and Payments During Pregnancy

Expecting parents often have questions about how much care may cost, how much they may be responsible for and when payments will be due. Here's a handy summary of how it all works!

Breastfeeding Articles

It's International Breastfeeding Week and we've collected all of our past blog articles here.

CDC.gov

The website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – this is a great resource for vaccination and disease screening and prevention recommendations.

CDC.gov – Pregnancy

Particularly useful for steps you can take to reduce your risk of problems.

Cell-free Fetal DNA in Maternal Blood

Thomas Lee, MD and Wendy Busch, MS, CGC. Perinatal Progress, Volume 5, Number 1. September 2012.

Checking Your Insurance Benefits for Genetic Testing

Information to help you check your insurance coverage and benefits for genetic screening.

Comfort Measures and Over-the-Counter Medications During Pregnancy

From allergies and backaches to constipation, gas and heartburn (fun!), here are safe strategies for coping with or treating what ails you during pregnancy--straight from our providers!

Contemporary Management of Sonographic Aneuploidy Markers

2018-09-20; Thomas Lee, MD, MBA, 16:17

COVID-19, Pregnancy, and Breastfeeding (ACOG)

The latest information from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on COVID-19.

Delivery of Twins

2018-09-20; Lisa Farkhouh, MD, 14:12

Diabetes Mellitus

Barbra M. Fisher, MD, PhD
Perinatal Progress Volume 11, Number 1
April 2018

Diabetes Mellitus Quick Reference Guide

April 2018

Endometriosis Foundation of America

A nonprofit focused on endometriosis awareness, education, advocacy and research that also offers opportunities to get involved with events and community support related to this chronic reproductive health condition.

Enfermedad por coronavirus (COVID-19), embarazo y lactancia (ACOG)

La información más reciente del Colegio Americano de Obstetras y Ginecólogos sobre COVID-19.

Especially for Teens

A resource from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Fundamentals of Obstetric Ultrasound

Thomas Lee, MD, MBA
Perinatal Progress Volume 11, Number 2
August 2018

Genetic Carrier Screening

2018-03-21; Karen Hansen, MS, CGC; 15:11

Genetic Testing

2018-01-24; Karen Hansen, MS, CGC, 16:24

Genetic Testing Specifications

August 2014

Gestational Diabetes – Insulin Made Simple

2018-01-24; Michael Smrtka, MD, 14:49

Getting Disability, FMLA and Other Forms Completed

Oh those pesky forms...from how long they take to how much it costs, here's everything you need to know.

GoodRx

A website to compare the cost of prescription medications.

Healthy Weight Gain in Pregnancy

Wondering how much weight you should be gaining during pregnancy? We've got you covered.

Hemoglobinopathies

2018-03-15; Barbra Fisher, MD, PhD and Jeri Milanovich, MS, CGC, 8:15

Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy: An Update

Mark W. Tomlinson, MD, MBA and Lisa J. Farkouh, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 8, Number 1
April 2015

Hystersisters

On online resource and forum for women having bleeding issues, fibroids, pelvic pain, etc.

Incidence of Significant Chromosomal Abnormalities

Hook EB, Cross PK, Schreinemochers DM

Information on Genetic Screening in Pregnancy

An overview of different genetic and chromosomal conditions for which screening is available, who they are most likely to affect and how often they occur.

Insurance and Billing Information

Does it sometimes feel like you need a degree in insurance to even understand your statement? Think of this as a crash course to help you understand how we bill for services and what questions to ask your insurance provider.

International Urogynecological Association | YourPelvicFloor.org

YourPelvicFloor.org is the patient-centered website of International Urogynecological Association where you can find patient information leaflets, videos, FAQs and more.

La Leche League

Information and support related to breastfeeding—including local support groups.

Language Access & Non-Discrimination Policies

Learn more about WHA’s free translation services and our commitment to non-discrimination.

Late Preterm Steroids: An Update

2018-03-15; Meredith Williams, MD, 13:22

Magnesium Sulfate Uses and Abuses

2018-03-15; Sophia Lannon, MD, MPH, 12:08

Management of Intrauterine Growth Restriction/Fetal Growth Restriction

July 2021

Management of Migraine Headaches in Pregnancy

2018-09-20; Ashlie Tronnes, MD, 16:34

Managing Women at Risk for Preterm Birth

Barbra M. Fisher, MD, PhD and Meredith Williams, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 6, Number 1
August 2013

Marijuana Use in Pregnancy

2019-05-29; Thomas Lee, MD, MBA; 17:28

Medical Record Amendment Request

If you think the information in your medical or billing record is incorrect, you can request a change, or amendment, to your record using this form.

Medical Records Release Form

If you would like to transfer your records to provider outside of WHA, download and complete this form. If you have a MyHealth account, you can also request your records there.

Menopause Preparedness Toolkit

A downloadable educational guide from the Society for Women’s Health Research designed to support individuals through the menopause transition with information on symptoms, midlife health, care planning, wellness and preparing for conversations with health care providers and loved ones.

MiddlesexMD Blog

A good resource for articles on sex after 40. Also includes various products, but this is not a specific endorsement of those.

National Association for Continence

Fecal and urinary incontinence information for patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals.

National Friendship Day Giveaway

Enter to win a manicure for two on our Facebook page in honor of #NationalFriendshipDay.

National Vulvodynia Association

An educational resource from Oregon Health & Science University about vulvar conditions, with guidance for patients experiencing vulvar discomfort or concerns.

New Patient Checklist

Remember when mom made sure you had everything you needed? Think of this as mom’s checklist—only shorter.

No Surprise Billing

Learn more about your rights and protections against surprise medical bills.

Notice of Privacy Practices

Read WHA's Notice of Privacy Practices

NWP Antenatal Late Preterm Steroids Protocol

April 2017

NWP Referral Form

Updated 2017

NWP Ultrasound and Financial Disclosure

Updated 2017

NWP Ultrasound Patient Instructions

Updated 2017

Obesity in Pregnancy

2019-09-19; Ashlie Tronnes, MD; 16:55

Office of Women's Health – Pregnancy

Good basic content on pregnancy and women's health.

Oligohydramnios Measurement and Management

Michael P. Smrtka, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 7, Number 1
June 2014

Opioid Use Disorder in Pregnancy

Meredith K. Williams, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 12, Number 2
October 2019

Our Bodies, Ourselves

A book (and now an organization) that's been around for decades, revised often.

Our Moment of Truth

Learn more about midwifery care and women's health during pregnancy and beyond on this site from the American College of Nurse-Midwives.

Patient Rights and Responsibilities

Every good relationship has clear expectations—and we want this to be a very good relationship! Learn more about what you can expect from us and vice versa.

Patient Survey Program

If you have a visit in one of our offices, you could be asked to provide feedback through an online survey. Learn more about what we do with the information here.

PCOS Awareness Association

A nonprofit dedicated to increasing understanding of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and supporting those affected with educational materials, information on symptoms and treatment options, and links to community support and specialist directories.

Placenta Accreta Spectrum Diagnosis, Myths and Management

2019-03-21; Mark Tomlinson, MD, MBA; 15:29

Placenta Previa Diagnosis and Management

2019-05-29; Barbra Fisher, MD, PhD; 16:41

Planned Parenthood

Great information about all aspects of reproductive health.

Pre-pregnancy Care (ACOG)

From the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, this FAQ includes ideas for optimizing your health before pregnancy, including preventive care, lifestyle guidance and preparation for conception.

Preconception Considerations for Patients Considering IVF

2019-09-19; Meredith Williams, MD; 22:20

Prenatal Education for New Pregnancies

By WHA providers, for WHA patients: here's the educational information we recommend to all our pregnant patients.

Prenatal Education Video

WHA's prenatal educational information, explained in 25 minutes!

Prenatal Patient Information

Here's all the information we covered with you at the beginning of your pregnancy and other helpful resources, including information from the CDC and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on pregnancy and COVID-19.

Preparing for Your Office Visit

Masks are no longer required—but still greatly appreciated.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Your clinician wants to be able to see and speak with you during your upcoming appointment, so please take a moment to make sure you're prepared.

Privacy & Security

Learn more about how we’re protecting you—and your health information.

Protocol for Managing Asymptomatic Patients at Risk for Preterm Birth

February 2024

Protocol for Managing Oligohydramnios and Borderline AFI

August 2014

Queer / LGBTQIA+ Menopause

A community-centered resource and support space focused on menopause experiences in LGBTQ+ communities, providing education, stories and connections related to aging and midlife health.

Recommendations for Genetic Screening in Pregnancy

Ashlie A. Tronnes, MD and Karen E. Hansen, MS, CGC
Perinatal Progress Volume 12, Number 1
May 2019

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Sophia M.R. Lannon, MD, MPH
Perinatal Progress Volume 10, Number 1
May 2017

Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Protocol for Targeted and Sequential Evaluation

March 2017

Routine Cervical Length Surveillance

2017-09-21; Thomas Lee, MD, MBA, 15:27

Scarleteen

A blog about lots of topics for teens.

Screening for Fetal Chromosomal Abnormalities

Wendy Busch, MS, CGC and Jeri Milanovich, MS, CGC
Perinatal Progress Volume 3, Number 3
October 2010

Sex, Etc.

A website for teens, by teens.

SMFM – Evaluation and Management of Polyhydramnios

Consult Series #46 - October, 2018

SMFM: Five Things Physicians and Patients Should Question

Choosing Wisely, An Initiative of the ABIM Foundation

SMFM: The Role of Ultrasound in Women Who Undergo Cell-free DNA Screening

Consult Series #42 - March, 2017

The Menopause Society

Find trusted information on menopause and midlife women’s health, including symptoms, treatment options and evidence-based guidance for patients and clinicians from a professional medical society.

Thromboembolism and Inherited Thrombophilia

Mark W. Tomlinson, MD, MBA
Perinatal Progress Volume 3, Number 2
June 2010

Thyroid Disease in Pregnancy

2017-09-21; Lisa Farkouh, MD, 12:35

Thyroid Disease in Pregnancy: An Update

Lisa J. Farkouh, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 9, Number 2
August 2016

Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome: An Update

Juan Martinez-Poyer, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 4, Number 2
September, 2011

Twins, the First Trimester

2017-09-21; Ashlie Tronnes, MD, 15:24

Ultrasound – Think Value!

2018-01-24; Mark Tomlinson, MD, MBA, 15:10

Up to Date

A searchable database of current medical information for both patients and providers.

Urgent Visits and After-hours Help

Life happens and we’re here when it does. Learn more about what to do when you think you need to be seen urgently or need help after hours.

Vaccines in Pregnancy

Santosh Pandipati, MD, FACOG
Perinatal Progress Volume 3, Number 1
February, 2010

Venous Thromboembolism in Pregnancy

2019-03-21; Michael P. Smrtka; 15:08

Vitamin D in Pregnancy: Should We Be Testing?

2018-05-29; Sophia M.R. Lannon, MD, MPH; 17:20

Voices for PFD

A great resource from the American Urogynecologic Society for women experiencing pelvic floor disorders, including bladder and bowel control issues and pelvic organ prolapse.

Voiding Diary

If you’re seeing one of our urogynecologists to talk about urinary incontinence, we may ask you to keep track of things for a while before your visit. Download a copy of the voiding diary here.

WebMD Baby

Good information on all things pregnancy.

Wellbeing Assessment and Other Online Forms

Help us get to know you before your visit or get reacquainted if it’s been a while. If you need to complete a wellbeing assessment, a urogynecology intake form—or any other online forms, you’ll have a notification in your MyHealth account.

What to Expect During a Physical Exam

This resource from the Oregon Medical Board provides more information on what to expect from various types of physical exams at the doctor's office, including how to advocate for your rights and what to know about medical chaperones.

Women's Healthcare Associates – Bridgeview

Women's Healthcare Associates – Gateway

Women's Healthcare Associates – Hillsboro

Women's Healthcare Associates – Newberg

1003 Providence Drive, Suite 340, Newberg, OR, 97132, (503) 538-2698

Women's Healthcare Associates – Oregon City

1508 Division Street, Suite 205, Oregon City, OR, 97045
Phone: (503) 657-1071 | Fax: (503) 657-3321

Women's Healthcare Associates – Peterkort North

9701 SW Barnes Road, Suite 200, Portland, OR, 97225. (503) 734-3700

Women's Healthcare Associates – Tabor

5050 NE Hoyt Street, Suite 230, Portland, 97213
Phone: (503) 249-5454 | Hours: M-F 8:30AM-5:00PM

Your Electronic Health Record

WHA is part of the Legacy Epic computer system for scheduling, medical records and billing. Learn more about what that means for you.

Your Test Results

Learn more about when--and how--you'll hear about your test results and how we'll work with you to adjust your treatment plan, if necessary.

Search providers, services, locations…

Schedule an Appointment

If you’re pregnant and want to begin care at WHA–or need to schedule an appointment during your pregnancy, call us! Find a provider and location here.

Please have your insurance information handy before you begin scheduling.

This will allow our teams to check whether your plan may require a referral for the care you need or to prepare benefits information to share with you at your visit. If you do not enter insurance information when scheduling, you may be asked to pay a $200-$500 deposit before receiving service.

What type of appointment do you need?