Shining a Light on Women’s Health
Each year, National Women’s Health Week celebrates the strength and determination of women who have taken control of their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Women of all ages are encouraged to speak up about their health needs and concerns and prioritize healthy choices and preventive care.
Open Door offers women’s health services at our locations in Muncie, Anderson, and Hartford City. We asked three of our providers to share some of the women’s health topics they are most passionate about.
Erika Dunn, Nurse Practitioner
Anderson Family Practice
“Educating patients on contraception, also called birth control, is really important to me. I want them to know it’s not ‘one-size fits all.’ One method may be most effective overall, but it may not be the right choice for you. For example, an implant may be seen as convenient to some patients, while others view it as too invasive. Both opinions are completely valid.
It’s also important to know that not everyone has the same experience with contraception. Your friend’s bad experience may not be likely to happen to you. There are many factors to consider.
I know that choosing contraception can be overwhelming and confusing. That’s why I am passionate about helping my patients learn about the various forms and figure out which method is right for them.”
Molly Graybeal, Nurse Practitioner
Family Planning
“My first love is contraception education. That is why I work at Family Planning where we are encouraged to help patients find the right method and make sure it is available and affordable for them.
I also like to educate women about pap smears and pelvic exams. A pap smear is a specific test for cervical cancer. Your provider uses a swab to collect cells from the cervix. Many patients are surprised that you don’t necessarily need a pap smear every year. Technology has helped us see the cells so much better, so the results are more reliable. In fact, if your pap smear includes an HPV test and comes back normal, you may not need another pap smear for 3-5 years!
A pap smear is different from a pelvic exam, during which your provider checks all your reproductive organs. The exam may or may not include a pap smear and other screenings for things like sexually transmitted diseases. Your provider may recommend you have pelvic exams more frequently than pap smears.
Most importantly, I want patients to know they shouldn’t be embarrassed to come see us. If it has been a long time or they don’t remember when they last had a pelvic exam, it’s okay! There is no judgment here.”
Jackie Anthony, Nurse Practitioner
Hartford City
“My goal always has been to be a nurse midwife. I love talking with women about our bodies, making us more comfortable with them. Some people are like, ‘That topic is taboo,’ and don’t want to talk about it. But no question is going to scare me away. I want all my patients to feel like I am one person they can feel safe with to share whatever is on their heart and mind.
I also want women to know that we are all important in this world. We need each other and everyone has a role. No matter the differences we have – how and where we grew up, what we like and don’t like – we all matter.”
Open Door's friendly staff offer comfortable, expert environments for your women's health needs. Visit Women’s Health and Family Planning to learn more.