Women's health: when you can visit urgent care
Women's health issues treated at an urgent care
A few of the most common women’s health concerns treated at urgent cares 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. 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. 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. Symptoms 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) 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.
Other women's conditions and symptoms you may want to visit urgent care for
Many of these conditions can share early symptoms, so be sure to make time to visit urgent care if you’re experiencing any of the following issues:
- Vaginal discharge, especially if it’s discolored, thickened, or smells unusual
- Vaginal itchiness
- 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)
- Pain while urinating
- Constant need to urinate
- Nausea and dizziness
- Unusual spotting
- Concerns about your period
- Morning sickness
Women's health FAQs
Here are a few frequently asked questions about visiting an urgent care for women’s healthcare:
Can an urgent care perform ultrasounds for pregnancy?
Ultrasounds are typically not performed at our urgent care centers, but in cases that involve bleeding or early pregnancy problems, we can order an ultrasound at a nearby outpatient radiology facility or within the outpatient department of one of our affiliated hospitals. However, most patients find this is still more efficient than waiting in another setting.
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 also 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.
