Sexual Health
Contraceptive services
For contraceptive services, including oral contraceptives, IUD insertion, diaphragm fittings and other birth control methods, call (413) 577-5101 to make an appointment with a UHS provider.
Condoms and spermicides are available at discount prices from the UHS Pharmacy.
Learn about contraceptive choices.
If you want a Pap test performed or wish to be tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), tell the receptionist when making your appointment.
Women who've had contraceptive care from a provider outside of UHS should bring a copy of their clinician's report, Pap results and any contraceptive prescriptions to their first appointment.
Emergency contraception
If you’ve had unprotected intercourse and are concerned about the possibility of an unintended pregnancy, come to UHS for emergency contraception (EC). Plan B, one type of EC, is the most commonly offered form of EC at UHS.
Although Plan B has been shown to have some effectiveness for up to five days or 120 hours after unprotected sex, the earlier it is taken, the more effective it is.
Women 18 and over may obtain Plan B without a prescription; it's available with a prescription for women 17 and younger. Talk with your healthcare provider or a UHS pharmacist about dispensing options that may save you money.
Plan B is available at Walk-in Care, as an anticipatory prescription from your provider, and from the UHS Pharmacy.
Gynecological services
All sexually active women should have an annual gynecological (gyn) exam. According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG), a woman should have her first Pap smear about three years after beginning sexual activity, or at age 21, whichever comes first. After age 30, talk with your provider about the frequency of follow-up tests.
If you want a Pap test performed or wish to be tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), tell the receptionist when making your appointment.
Women who’ve had gyn care from a provider outside of UHS should bring a copy of their medical record to their first appointment.
Testing
HIV
UHS offers routine HIV testing; read more here.
Pregnancy
Call UHS for a pregnancy testing appointment after a missed period. The UHS Pharmacy also offers over-the-counter pregnancy tests. Read more about pregnancy testing here.
STIs
Call UHS for an STI screening appointment. Some infections can be identified immediately; others can take as much as six weeks after exposure to be diagnosed. When you make your appointment, ask about any special instructions.
Urinary tract infections
Call UHS for an appointment; you’ll usually be seen the same day or within 24 hours. A urine sample will be needed; arrive early for your appointment to provide one.
Vaginal infections
Call for an appointment; you’ll usually be seen the same day or within 24 hours. Do not douche or use vaginal medications before your visit.
