Talking about periods, discharge or sex life is already hard; doing it in a language you do not fully speak is harder. That is why many Hispanic women in Houston put off their checkup. This guide helps you find care in Spanish and get the most out of the visit.
Clinic or specialist gynecologist?
You do not always need to start with a specialist. Many needs are handled at a family clinic:
| Handled at a clinic | Better with a specialist (OB/GYN) |
|---|---|
| Pap smear and yearly exam | Pregnancy follow-up |
| Vaginal infections and cultures | Abnormal Pap needing colposcopy |
| Pregnancy test | Heavy bleeding that does not improve |
| Birth control | Cysts or fibroids needing surgery |
| Urinary discomfort | Trouble getting pregnant |
What to ask before you go
- Can I be seen in Spanish for the whole visit?
- Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
- How much does it cost and what is included?
- Do you do the Pap smear and cultures in the same visit?
- Can I bring someone with me?
How to make the most of the visit
- Write down the date of your last period and whether your cycles are regular.
- Bring a list of medications and birth control you use.
- Write your questions ahead of time; they are easy to forget in the exam room.
- If you do not understand something, ask for it to be explained again. It is your right.
Useful words if you are seen in English
| Spanish | English |
|---|---|
| Papanicolaou | Pap smear |
| Flujo vaginal | Vaginal discharge |
| Regla / menstruación | Period |
| Cultivo | Culture |
| Anticonceptivos | Birth control |
| Ultrasonido pélvico | Pelvic ultrasound |
Also, any clinic that receives federal funds must offer you a free interpreter if you ask.
Gynecology care in Spanish at Clínica Hispana Mangum
The clinic's medical team provides gynecology and Pap smears, pregnancy testing and birth control, no appointment needed, in Spanish or English. We are at 2912 Mangum Rd, Suite A, in northwest Houston, every day from 9 AM to 9 PM. Call (832) 834-5507.
Sources: ACOG: Your first gynecologic visit · HHS: Language access rights
