Our staff of physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners are trained and prepared to address the physical, psychological and emotional needs of women, people who menstruate, and people who want or need to discuss contraception options on the University of Oklahoma campus. Appointments may be scheduled by calling 405-325-4441, option #1.
For information on insurance coverage and pricing, contact patient services 405-325-8053.
When making an appointment, patients will be able to indicate if they prefer a male or female healthcare provider.
In most appointments, a clinician will perform a general exam that includes listening to the heart and lungs, feeling the thyroid gland, checking the breasts, and checking abdominal organs. The clinician may also demonstrate how to perform a self-breast exam if the patient is not familiar with this practice. In addition, a pelvic exam is usually performed. Information about gynecological exams is found below.
After the exam, the clinician will answer any questions. Results from the exam may not be available immediately. In most cases the patient will be notified by letter of pap smear results.
Unless you have a medical problem, you can wait to make an appointment for your first well visit when you turn 21. After your first pelvic exam, your doctor will tell you when you need to come back. It’ll depend on your medical history and whether you have any health issues. Those who wish to use a prescription method of contraception should also have routine gynecological exams.
We recommend a yearly checkup and consultation regardless of your gender, sexual activity, or contraception needs. However, Pap smears are recommended every three years unless abnormal cells are found.
There are many FDA-approved methods of contraception so it can be very difficult to pick the right one. A great tool to help select options is found here but always talk to a provider first. Things to consider when choosing an option include, but aren't limited to:
"There are four hormonal IUDs available in the U.S.—Mirena, Skyla, LILETTA, and Kyleena. All four are made of plastic and release a small amount of the synthetic hormone progestin, which thickens your cervical mucus to keep sperm from reaching the uterus. Depending what kind you get, hormonal IUDs can last between 3 and 7 years and may make your periods lighter.
There’s only one IUD without hormones available in the U.S. It’s called Paragard and it’s made of plastic and a small amount of natural, safe copper. Paragard doesn’t affect your periods and can work for up to 12 years." - Bedsider.org
OU Health Services has adopted the University's Protection of Health Information Policies and Procedures as they relate to confidentiality. No information concerning any patient's medical condition or care is to be released to anyone other than the patient through personal discussion, telephone, or letter without the patient's written/verbal authorization.
Oftentimes, students share insurance policies with parents or guardians. In these instances, an explanation of benefits or bursar account may show that there was a visit to OU Health Services, but specifics of the visit are completely confidential.
