| | This morning's Royal wedding reminds me of the health issues all brides should think about before tying the knot. We also talk about what to expect at your gynecology visit, what a colposcopy is, and lots more. Have a healthy week! Tracee | | Health Things To Think About Before You Marry If wedding plans have you planning for your special day, there are a few things you should do to make sure that you are a healthy bride. While, getting married is a special, exciting, and busy time that most women dream of from the time they are little girls, there is more to getting married than flowers, dresses, and saying "I do." Before you marry the love of your life, you should have a few health checks to make sure that you are in tiptop shape health wise. | What Is A Colposcopy? One of the most frightening times in a woman's life is when the gynecologist calls and says that her Pap smear results are abnormal. Although you might think an abnormal Pap smear means that you have cervical cancer, the fact is that the majority of abnormal Pap smears are not caused by cervical cancer. The more likely cause of abnormal Pap smear results is inflammation or a vaginal infection. | Non-Contraceptive Benefits Of The Pill Did you know that there are several other reproductive health conditions that can be improved or prevented with the use of oral contraceptives? According to American Family Physician's update on oral contraceptives, "The non contraceptive benefits (and favorable side effect profiles) of oral contraceptive pills are so important that some patients use the pills exclusively for those reasons." | Things To Know About Your Gynecology Visit Have you ever been to an obstetrician/gynecologist or Ob/Gyn for a pelvic exam and Pap test? If your answer is "no" and you are 21 or older, pick up your phone today and make an appointment with your doctor or a family planning clinic in your area. On the other hand, if your answer is "yes," then how long has it been since your last Pap smear and pelvic exam? All women should have annual Pap smears beginning at age 21, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. | | | | Women's Health Ads | | | | Featured Articles | | | | | | Sign up for more free newsletters on your favorite topics | | | | You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the About Women's Health newsletter. If you wish to change your email address or unsubscribe, please click here. About respects your privacy: Our Privacy Policy Contact Information: 249 West 17th Street New York, NY, 10011 © 2011 About.com | | | | Must Reads | | Advertisement | |