Southeast Missouri State University

The staff at the Campus Health Clinic respect and support women in assuming an active role in their health care. The Southeast Campus Health Clinic offers a variety of women’s health services.

• Gardasil – vaccine for HPV (recommended, not required). Please check with your insurance provider for coverage information.
• Annual Gynecological Exam – includes a general physical exam including breast and pelvic exams, STD testing and a PAP test, if indicated, to screen for cancer of the cervix.
• Contraceptive Visits – professional advice about method(s) of contraception to meet individual medical needs and lifestyles. Visit includes a gynecological exam and personalized instruction for contraception. Contraceptive options available by prescription include oral contraceptives (birth control pills), Depo Provera injection, NuvaRing, and Ortho Evra patch. Over-the-counter options include condoms. Specific methods of contraceptives may require a referral such as IMPLANON and Mirena.  Not all contraceptives are covered by insurance. Please check with your insurance provider for more information.
• Pregnancy Testing – low cost, accurate pregnancy testing. In addition, individual counseling and referral sources are offered in a supportive and confidential manner.
• For Immediate Care Following Sexual Assault – please seek medical care at SoutheastHEALTH (or any nearby hospital) within 72 hours. Following immediate care, the Campus Health Clinic will provide follow-up care. All medical findings are completely confidential.

Gynecology Problems

• General Gynecological Problems – diagnostic testing and treatment for problems such as irregular bleeding, heavy periods, menstrual cramps, PMS, abnormal hair growth, painful intercourse, and vaginal infections.
• Screening and Treatment of STDs – including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, trichomonaisis, cervical cancer screening for HPV, and HIV infections. All testing, treatment, and counseling are handled in a strictly confidential manner.

HPV Vaccine

HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S. Most HPV infections don’t cause any symptoms and go away on their own. However, the virus can cause genital warts, abnormal PAP test results, and cervical cancer.

Gardasil protects against 4 major types of the possible 40 types of HPV. These include 2 types that cause about 70% of cervical cancer and 2 types that cause about 90% of genital warts.

The vaccine is safe and effective for females 9-26 years old, regardless of their sexual or PAP history.

The HPV vaccine is given as a 3-dose series, with the second and third dose given 1-2 months and then 6 months after the first dose.

Contact your health insurance provider to determine your coverage for the cost of the HPV vaccine, and then schedule an appointment or come by the clinic to start the injection series. Call 573-651-2270 to schedule an appointment.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormone problem that occurs in 5-10% of women and can cause

• Irregular periods

• Extra hair on face and body

• Weight gain

• Difficulty getting pregnant

Why is this condition important?

If untreated, PCOS can lead to diabetes, heart disease and cancer of the uterus.

How can I find out if I have PCOS?

Diagnosis of PCOS requires a thorough medical history, a physical exam, and blood tests.

How is PCOS treated?

Regular exercise and healthy eating can control the symptoms of PCOS. Medication can also correct the hormone imbalance and regulate periods.

How can I find out more about PCOS?

Excellent links for additional information about PCOS: www.womenshealth.gov, www.youngwomenshealth.org

Pregnancy Testing & Counseling

The Southeast Campus Health Clinic offers pregnancy testing, options counseling, and referrals.

A urine pregnancy test is usually accurate one or two days after a missed period, or 14 days after unprotected intercourse. (There are several pregnancy test kits available for use at home. The advantages of home kits are convenience and privacy. The disadvantages are the chance of error and the cost.)

If you are concerned about a positive result, you may want to sort out your feelings and clarify your options. You may want to schedule an appointment with the Campus Health Clinic provider.

Please remember, you do have choices. We will help in any way we can, no matter what your choice.

What Costs are Involved?

Fees are charged for the following services: laboratory (including PAP smears), pharmacy, treatment of genital warts, and office visits. Students and their spouses/partners are encouraged to check with your insurance for coverage.