Prevention is important to a woman’s reproductive health. Pelvic exams can detect problems before they become sever. Pap tests are particularly important for early detection of cervical cancer, which when found early can be cured. Talk with your health care provider about any concerns you may have, including tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) if you feel you are at risk.

Steps you can take :

Have regular pelvic exams and Pap tests. Talk with your health care provider about how often you need them.

See your health care provider right away if you have abnormal bleeding or discharge, or paid during sex, in your pelvic area, or during urination.

To find out where you can get a free or low cost Pap test in your area, call the centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.

If you are sexually active, get regular checks for STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and genital herpes. STDs are especially dangerous in pregnancy and can harm you and your baby.

You can help prevent STDs and HIV/AIDS by using condoms every time you have sexual contact. But, condoms aren’t 100% foolproof and the best way to avoid STDs is to practice abstinence (don’t have sex). Birth control methods other than condoms, such as pills and implants, won’t protect you from STDs or HIV.

If you think you have been exposed to HIV, get tested. You can call the CDC National AIDS hotline.

Become educated about the different methods of birth control. Talk with your health care provider about which option is best for you.