Health Maintenance and Prevention

Vaden offers a wide variety of screening, preventive, and reproductive health services. Many of the services can be discussed in a single visit, choose either a “Health Maintenance” visit or the “Gynecological Visit” if you are due for cervical cancer screening (Pap test) or have other gynecological needs. Many of our services can be done via a video or telephone visit or online. 

•  For LGBTQIA+ Health, visit our guide.

Screening

• Blood Pressure 
• Cervical Cancer Screening (the Pap test)
  • Cervical cancer screening should begin at age 21. Patients under age 21 who need contraception or STI screening may do so without having a cervical cancer screening exam, usually done in the context of a complete gynecological exam.
  • Cervical cancer screening is recommended every three years for patients from age 21 to 29 who are healthy and have had normal exams in the past.  Patients age 30 and older should speak with their provider about whether they should have cervical cancer screenings every five years.
  • Patients with certain risk factors may need more frequent screening, including those who have HIV, are immunosuppressed, or have had abnormal cervical screening test result in the past.
  • HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) DNA Testing may also be done with the Pap test, beginning at age 30 as per national guidelines.
  • At least 24 hours before your appointment, go to the VadenPatient portal and fill out the confidential web questionnaire. 
  • Bring a list of the medications you are taking, including birth control pills. Bring any relevant medical records or past test results. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to prepare for the exam.
• Cholesterol and other lipids
• Health assessment
• STI 
  • Services related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) include screening; if you are at risk but have no symptoms.
  • Confidential HIV testing
  • Testing for symptoms that may indicate the presence of an infection. Treatment for STIs.
  • Education about STI prevention.
  • Most testing will require a urine sample. To ensure accuracy, do not urinate at least one hour before the sample is taken.
  • Your risk of infection is determined by your sexual practices, including the use of barriers, choice of partners, and preventive vaccines. 
  • Medical Services provides HIV testing with a blood test. The lab results are filed in your medical record along with your other test results. Your medical record is confidential, and results will not be released without your permission unless subpoenaed by law. Positive test results for communicable infections, including hepatitis B, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis C, etc. must be reported to the County Department of Public Health. 

Prevention

• Immunizations
• HIV prevention via PrEP
• Travel Clinic
• Emergency Contraception

Sexual Health/Reproductive Health Concerns

• Urinary Problems
• Erectile Dysfunction
• Low Libido
• Penile Discharge
• Scrotal problems
• Testicular lumps or pain 
• Hair loss
• Urinary Tract Infections
• Birth Control and Contraceptive Options
• For longer-acting contraceptive methods such as IUDs or Nexplanon implant insertion, appointments can be made at Stanford Hospital and Clinics, Palo Alto Medical Foundation (Sutter), and Menlo Clinic.
• Referrals for infertility concerns
• Emergency contraception (morning-after pill) or consult with a nurse. 
• Diagnosis of gynecological disorders
• Sexual Assault

Pregnancy testing, pregnancy management, and pre-conception planning

• Pre-conception care: If you are considering a pregnancy, please schedule a visit with a Vaden clinician to make sure any medical needs get addressed before conceiving including immunizations and dental needs. Do not try to get pregnant without being on a folic acid supplement to prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida as these defects occur very early in pregnancy – often before the pregnancy is known. If you are pregnant, do not take any prescription or over-the-counter medications, or supplements before checking with a clinician. Do not smoke anything, vape, or use alcohol.
• Pregnancy Options: If you have an unplanned pregnancy, make an appointment with a health care provider in Medical Services to discuss your options. Counseling and Psychological Services staff are also available to assist and support you. Call 650-498-2336, ext. 1, for Medical Services or ext. 2 for Counseling and Psychological Services. You can also schedule an appointment on the web at the VadenPatient portal. 
  You can also directly access services, including pregnancy care or termination, you need below:
  • Stanford Hospital & Clinics Gynecology Clinic: 650.498.5280
  • Menlo Clinic: 650.498.6500
  • Planned Parenthood: Redwood City or Mountain View 877.855.7526