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Women’s Healthcare at Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge

Comprehensive Women’s Health Close to Home.
The Strength From Highly Trained Doctors and Nurses.

woman holding newborn baby after delivering

Comprehensive Women’s Health Close to Home

At Methodist Medical Center, we are here for you. Our community hospital has served the Oak Ridge and surrounding region since 1943. Our extensive Women’s Services offerings include our family birthing center and family education programs, women’s surgery center, breast center, and the latest screenings including 3D mammography and bone density scans.

Our facilities offer patients all the benefits of medical expertise and innovation while still embodying the convenience of a hometown medical center that is close to the support of family and friends.

At Methodist, our team is dedicated to raising the standard of healthcare in our community so that everyone can enjoy a better quality of life. Here, you’ll receive the compassionate, comprehensive women’s healthcare services you deserve.

Hospital

Methodist Medical Center

Hours
  • Hospital
  • Laboratory
  • Emergency Room

Our Team of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Establishing care with an OBGYN, or obstetrician-gynecologist, is crucial for women’s health as it ensures regular check-ups and screenings for conditions like cervical cancer and breast abnormalities. These healthcare professionals also provide essential guidance on contraception, reproductive health, and family planning, empowering women to make informed decisions about their bodies. Building a relationship with an OBGYN fosters trust and open communication, allowing women to address concerns and receive personalized medical advice tailored to their needs.

From women’s care specialists (providers who specialize in women’s health of all phases of life) to labor and delivery, we have an excellent team of compassionate providers to care for you and your family.

Excellent Care Close to Home.

At Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge, we pride ourselves in offering excellent women’s health services, technology, and expertise, so you can rest assured you’re receiving the best care available for all your women’s healthcare needs.

 

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“I felt like the baby and I were in good hands from the moment we were admitted into the hospital,” Kayla says. “The staff treated us all really well and they seemed like they cared about what we wanted.”

Kayla H.

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“It’s small acts of kindness that you never for­get, and I remember during the procedure…and just the uncertainty of everything… that Tashia gently patted my arm. It just filled me with a profound sense of security.”

Benita A.

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“As a radiologist, I knew the importance of a mammogram. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I was lucky to have early detection and fast treatment at Covenant Health.”

Lindsay L, MD

Family Birthing Center at Methodist Medical

Welcoming a new baby into your family is a special and joyous occasion. As you prepare for this exciting milestone, it’s crucial to select a birthing center where you feel supported and at ease.

At the Methodist Family Birthing Center, we understand the significance of this moment in your life. Our cozy atmosphere and family-focused approach ensure that you and your loved ones receive personalized care every step of the way.

For a smooth transition into parenthood, trust the Family Birthing Center at Methodist Medical Center with your labor and delivery needs. We prioritize what matters most—your family’s well-being.

girl holding newborn baby
women's health surgery in progress

Women’s Surgeries

As women navigate different stages of life or encounter new health challenges, they might require gynecologic surgeries. Various surgical procedures address issues like abnormal bleeding, incontinence, and various women’s health conditions.

At Methodist Medical Center, our team includes gynecologists with specialized expertise in robotic-assisted surgery for specific women’s health procedures. They’re equipped to provide advanced care tailored to your needs.

The Oak Ridge Breast Center at Methodist Medical Center

At the Oak Ridge Breast Center, we’re dedicated to early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

Since 1984, we’ve proudly served the Oak Ridge community as the premiere destination for comprehensive breast health services. As the sole mammography provider in Oak Ridge, we offer a full spectrum of breast care, including bone density screenings and cutting-edge technology.

With accreditation from the American College of Radiology across all modalities, our team of skilled and compassionate technologists ensures top-notch care. Plus, boast a perfect FDA inspection record.

woman in breast center preparing for exam
women in pregnancy classes

Classes, Education, and Support Groups

At Methodist Medical Center, we offer a variety of classes and activities tailored for expectant parents, siblings, grandparents, and child-care providers.

Additionally, we provide comprehensive pregnancy education, and through our partnership with Covenant Health, you gain access to a wealth of information on pregnancy and related topics.

Explore our family education programs at Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge to learn more.

Pregnancy Services and Maternity Care

  • Prenatal Care
  • Labor and Delivery
  • Postpartum Care

At Methodist Medical Center, we strive to provide the highest quality pregnancy services and maternity care to ensure the best possible experience for expectant mothers and their families. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals, including obstetricians, midwives, and nurses, offers personalized care and support throughout every stage of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum.

Complete Prenatal Care During Your Pregnancy for You and Your Baby at Women's Healthcare of Morristown

We provide comprehensive prenatal care for labor and delivery and a range of birthing options to accommodate individual preferences and needs. From childbirth education classes to lactation support and newborn care, we are committed to helping families feel informed, empowered, and well-cared for during this special time in their lives.

Prenatal Care

Prenatal care is the healthcare a pregnant person receives before their baby is born. It involves regular check-ups with healthcare providers to monitor the health of both the mom and the developing baby. Prenatal care includes various medical tests, screenings, and discussions about nutrition, exercise, and any concerns or questions the expectant parent may have. The goal of prenatal care is to promote a healthy pregnancy, identify and address any potential risks or complications early on, and ensure the best possible outcome for both parent and baby. Classes can be found here.

Labor and Delivery

Our team is here to care for both parents and new baby when you come to deliver at Methodist. During labor, the expecting mom experiences contractions as their body prepares for childbirth. In our Family Birthing Center, pregnant and laboring mothers receive support, pain management options, and monitoring to ensure a safe delivery of each baby. Our caring nursing staff assists with the delivery process, ensuring both the mom and baby are safe and well-cared for throughout the experience.

Postpartum Care

Postpartum services include the care and support provided to new parents, particularly the mother, and their baby after childbirth. This includes monitoring the health and recovery of the mom, addressing any post-birth concerns or complications, and offering guidance on breastfeeding, newborn care, and postpartum mental health. Hospital staff may also provide education on postpartum exercises, nutrition, and contraception options. The goal of postpartum services is to ensure the well-being of both parent and baby during the early days and weeks following childbirth, helping the family transition smoothly into their new life together. Expecting and new moms are encouraged to share postpartum symptoms with their provider to ensure each patient gets what she needs.

Gynecology and Obstetric Services Provided at Methodist Medical Center

Pelvic Exam

During a pelvic exam for a well-woman checkup, a gynecologist or OBGYN gently examines the vagina, cervix, and pelvic organs using special tools called speculum and fingers to ensure everything is healthy and normal. It might feel a bit uncomfortable but shouldn’t be painful, and it’s an essential part of maintaining women’s health by detecting any potential issues early on. Your provider will tell you when this exam is recommended, as it could be part of your annual visit or conducted if you are having issues

Pap Smear

A pap smear is a quick and simple test where a healthcare provider gently swabs the cervix to collect cells. These cells are then examined under a microscope to check for any signs of abnormality, helping to detect early signs of cervical cancer or other problems. A pap smear is usually done at the same time as a pelvic exam by your OBGYN. Pap smears are typically recommended every three years for women aged 21 to 65, but the frequency may vary based on individual health factors and provider recommendations.

Contraceptive Counseling

Contraceptive counseling involves a female patient discussing different birth control options with a healthcare provider to help her make informed decisions about preventing unwanted pregnancy. Your OBGYN can offer information on various methods, their effectiveness, potential side effects, and how they fit with the individual’s lifestyle and health needs. Talk to your provider about what kind of contraception is right for you.

Blood Pregnancy Test

A blood pregnancy test checks for the presence of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the bloodstream, which is produced by the placenta after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterus. It’s a reliable way to confirm pregnancy, often more sensitive than urine tests and able to detect pregnancy earlier, typically around six to eight days after ovulation.

For the most accurate results, it’s usually recommended to wait until after your missed period, which is typically around two weeks after ovulation. Early testing may yield false negatives due to low levels of the pregnancy hormone hCG in the body. If you think you may be pregnant or take a home pregnancy test that is positive, contact your healthcare provider.

Breast Exam

A breast exam is a simple check performed by a healthcare provider to feel for any lumps, bumps, or changes in the breast tissue. A self-breast exam is recommended for all individuals, especially women, as part of regular self-examinations and clinical screenings to detect any signs of breast cancer early.

At the Oak Ridge Breast Center we offer 3D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis, an advanced imaging technique used for breast cancer screening. This non-invasive and quick procedure takes multiple X-ray images of the breast from different angles to create a 3D picture, providing a more detailed view and potentially improving the detection of breast abnormalities compared to traditional 2D mammography.

Digital mammography is a type of breast imaging that uses electronic detectors to capture and store X-ray images of the breast. It’s similar to traditional mammography but produces digital images that can be viewed and analyzed on a computer, offering advantages such as easier storage, manipulation, and transmission of images.

A breast MRI is a medical test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the breast tissue. It’s often used to further evaluate breast abnormalities found on mammograms or to screen individuals at high risk for breast cancer.

A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the breast tissue. It’s commonly used as a supplementary screening tool, particularly for younger women with dense breast tissue or for evaluating breast lumps found during a physical exam or mammogram. Your provider may order a breast MRI or breast ultrasound following an inconclusive mammogram to find out more information.

Is it Time to Schedule Your Mammogram?

The American College of Radiology recommends women begin having an annual mammogram beginning at age 40. However, women with a higher risk of breast cancer may need to start screening earlier or have more frequent screenings. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about what’s right for you. If you’re in the Oak Ridge area, we encourage you to schedule your mammogram with us today. (

Bone Screening

Women are at greater risk for developing osteoporosis. MMC use the following screening techniques to detect osteoporosis:

  • X-rays
  • Bone density Tests
  • Blood Tests 

Osteoporosis (could link to something here from health library) is a condition where bones become weak and brittle, making them more prone to fractures. Women are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis than men because women generally have thinner bones and lose bone density more rapidly as they age, especially after menopause when estrogen levels drop. Factors like a lack of calcium in the diet, not enough exercise, smoking, and certain medications can also increase the risk.

It’s essential for women to take steps like eating a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, staying active, and getting regular check-ups to maintain bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Bone Density Tests

The primary screening test for osteoporosis is a bone density scan, also known as a DXA scan. This test measures the density of your bones, usually focusing on the hip and spine, and can identify if you have osteoporosis or are at risk for developing it.

The age at which screening is recommended can vary depending on factors such as family history, medical conditions, and lifestyle choices. However, in general, screening for osteoporosis is recommended for women starting at age 65 and for men starting at age 70.

Younger individuals may also need screening if they have specific risk factors, such as prolonged steroid use, low body weight, or a history of fractures from minor trauma. It’s essential to discuss with your healthcare provider when you should start screening based on your individual risk factors and health history.

X-rays and blood tests

X-rays are often used in conjunction with other tests, such as bone density scans (DXA scans), to evaluate fractures and assess bone health. X-rays can help diagnose fractures that may occur as a result of osteoporosis but do not show changes in bone density until significant bone loss has occurred. DXA scans are more sensitive and accurate in detecting early signs of osteoporosis by measuring bone density directly.

Blood tests can provide information about factors that influence bone health. For example, blood tests can measure levels of certain hormones and minerals that are important for bone strength, such as vitamin D, calcium, and hormones like estrogen and testosterone.

Blood tests can help identify underlying causes of bone loss, such as vitamin deficiencies or hormonal imbalances, which can then be addressed to help prevent or manage osteoporosis. They are typically used as part of a comprehensive assessment along with other diagnostic tools.

Gynecological Condition Treatments and Surgeries

  • Urinary Incontinence
  • Urinary Tract Infections
  • Endometriosis
  • PCOS
  • Infertility
  • Hormone Therapy
  • Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
  • Menopause
  • Hysterectomy
  • Myomectomy
  • Prolapse Surgery
A nurse with a tablet comforts a woman in the waiting room
Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a condition where a person unintentionally leaks urine. It can happen when the muscles that control the bladder weaken or are not working properly. This can lead to problems like leaking urine when laughing, sneezing, or exercising, and it can affect people of all ages but is more common in older adults, particularly women who have given birth or gone through menopause.

Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, leading to symptoms like pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, and strong-smelling urine. UTIs can affect anyone but are more common in women due to their shorter urethra. Drinking plenty of water, practicing good hygiene, and emptying the bladder completely can help prevent UTIs.

PCOS

PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a common hormonal disorder in women affecting the ovaries. It can cause irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant, and unwanted hair growth. Managing PCOS typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating and exercise, along with medications to help regulate hormones and improve symptoms. It’s important for women with PCOS to work closely with their healthcare providers to find the best treatment plan for their individual needs.

Infertility

Infertility is when a woman is having trouble getting pregnant despite regular, unprotected sex for a year or more. It can affect both men and women and may be caused by various factors like hormonal imbalances, reproductive issues, or lifestyle factors. Infertility is a common challenge, but many couples find solutions and go on to have successful pregnancies. It’s important to remember that there are various treatments available to address infertility, from medications to assisted reproductive technologies like IVF. Seeking support from healthcare professionals can provide guidance and hope on the journey to starting a family, and with persistence and the right resources, many couples achieve their dream of parenthood.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy involves taking medications to adjust hormone levels in the body. It’s commonly used to treat conditions like menopause symptoms, low testosterone levels in men, or hormonal imbalances in both genders. Depending on the specific needs, hormone therapy can come in various forms such as pills, patches, creams, or injections. It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the right type and dosage of hormone therapy for individual health goals and monitor any potential side effects.

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction refers to problems with the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues in the pelvic area that support the bladder, uterus, and rectum. This condition can lead to symptoms like urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, or difficulty emptying the bladder or bowels. Causes of pelvic floor dysfunction include childbirth, chronic constipation, or surgery, among others. Treatment options may include pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle changes, medications, or in severe cases, surgery, all aimed at improving muscle function and relieving symptoms.

Menopause

Menopause marks the natural end of a woman’s menstrual cycles and fertility. It typically occurs in women around their late 40s to early 50s, though the exact timing varies for each individual. During menopause, hormone levels fluctuate, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and changes in vaginal health. While menopause is a normal part of aging, there are various treatments available, including hormone therapy and lifestyle adjustments, to help manage symptoms and support overall well-being during this transition.

Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a woman’s uterus, and sometimes other reproductive organs like the ovaries and fallopian tubes. It’s typically done to treat conditions like uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or certain types of cancer. Depending on the reason for the hysterectomy, it may be done through different techniques, such as abdominal surgery, laparoscopy, or vaginal approach. While a hysterectomy can have significant effects on a woman’s body and fertility, it can also offer relief from certain health issues and improve quality of life in some cases.

Myomectomy

A myomectomy is a surgical procedure to remove fibroids from the uterus while preserving the uterus itself. Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that can cause symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure. During a myomectomy, the surgeon removes the fibroids either through an abdominal incision, laparoscopic techniques, or via the vagina. This procedure is often recommended for women who wish to preserve their fertility or avoid a hysterectomy while still addressing fibroid-related symptoms. Recovery time can vary depending on the size and number of fibroids removed, but many women experience relief from their symptoms after the procedure.

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