Women's health: When you can visit urgent care

As a woman, you might have specific health concerns needing medical attention. It can be challenging sometimes to get an appointment immediately with your primary care doctor or OB-GYN, particularly if your situation needs to be addressed immediately. 

Urgent care can help address many women’s health concerns right away. What are some women’s health care issues that can be addressed, and which issues can’t be treated at urgent care?

Women’s health issues treated at an urgent care

Urgent cares are typically open longer hours with walk-in or same-day appointments and can be a great option for immediate treatment. A few of the most common women’s health concerns treated at urgent care through our healthcare partners include the following: 

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) 

If you think you might have a sexually transmitted disease (STD), then it is best to be evaluated by a trained healthcare provider. Some symptoms to look out for are unusual discharge, vaginal itching, or burning during urination. 

You may also consider getting tested if a partner has been diagnosed with an STD. STDs in women can have different symptoms compared to men, so it's best to be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Many STDs can be treated relatively easily with antibiotics or other medication.  

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) 

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common bladder infection and the number one reason it might burn when you pee. What causes a UTI in women? A UTI is caused by bacteria infecting the urinary tract. If not treated, it can get worse and lead to kidney problems. A UTI typically requires treatment with antibiotics. 

Yeast infections 

Yeast infections are common vaginal infections caused by an overgrowth of a yeast called Candida albicans. Yeast infection symptoms in women may include clumpy, white discharge, vaginal itching or burning. Most yeast infections resolve quickly with an antifungal cream or oral medication.  

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) 

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) in women has symptoms similar to a yeast infection but is caused by an abnormal growth of vaginal bacteria. With BV, you may experience itching, abnormal discharge, burning during urination, or a strong, fish-like odor. BV is treated with oral or topical antibiotics.  

Women’s health FAQs

Here are a few frequently asked questions about visiting an urgent care for women’s health care: 

Which women’s health services does urgent care not offer? 

If you are experiencing a medical condition that requires emergency treatment, such as a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, you should head to the emergency room. Heavy bleeding, especially when accompanied by fever, dizziness, nausea, severe stomach pain or trouble breathing, should also be evaluated in the emergency department.  

Urgent care centers do not typically offer annual gynecological check-ups or follow-ups for chronic conditions. It is best to visit a women’s health clinic for ongoing treatment. 

What women’s health issues can be addressed at urgent care centers?

In addition to the conditions discussed above, many other health issues affect women that may require a visit to urgent care. Some of these conditions can share early symptoms, so it is important to visit an urgent care if you’re experiencing any of the following issues: 

• Abdominal pain — (We can help with pain from abdominal cramps or what might be food poisoning, but if you are experiencing sharp or severe abdominal pain, please go to the emergency room immediately.) 
• Concerns about your period 
• Constant need to urinate 
• Morning sickness 
• Mastitis
• Nipple discharge
• Lumps on breasts
• Nausea and dizziness
• Pain while urinating 
• Unusual spotting 
• Vaginal discharge, especially if it’s discolored, thickened or smells unusual 
• Vaginal itchiness 

If you are looking for help with a woman’s health condition, we are here to help. To get started, find the center nearest you and walk in or save your spot online. We also offer Virtual Visits from the comfort of your home. We’re here to help you feel better faster.

Written By Sarah Thebarge, Physician Assistant on February 20th, 2025

Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD