Inclusive, Affirming Women’s Reproductive Care in Chicago at Howard Brown Health
Women’s health services and gynecologic care are an important part of preventive and ongoing health care for many people. At Howard Brown Health, our primary care physicians and clinicians understand that gyn care is for more than just those who identify as women. We offer gyn services in Chicago, IL that center respect, comfort, and informed choice, with a strong focus on the overall wellbeing of our patients. These include:
- Preventive exams
- Screenings
- Family planning
- Menopause care
- LGBTQ+ affirming care
- Insurance support
This page is for all people seeking women’s health services, including cisgender women, transgender men, and nonbinary individuals in Chicago. Our care supports preventive health by helping detect and address reproductive and sexual health concerns early, and it benefits anyone with female reproductive organs or related health needs. Here is an overview of what is covered on this page:
- What Is Gynecological Health Care and Why It Matters
- How Often You Should See Your Primary Care Provider for GYN Services
- Why Choose Howard Brown Health for Women’s Health Services
- Women’s Health Conditions We Treat
- Health Insurance Options and Support plus Our Sliding Scale Fees
- Our Convenient Locations in Chicago
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Howard Brown Health primary care providers offer in-office women’s health care for cisgender women, transmasculine, transgender and nonbinary people, and anyone with a female reproductive system. Our care is based on your body and your health, not assumptions about gender. If your reproductive anatomy includes a cervix, uterus, ovaries, or related concerns, reproductive and sexual health exams are an important part of your preventive care and overall wellness.
To schedule an appointment for women’s reproductive care in Chicago, IL, call 773.388.1600 to speak with our Howard Brown Health team and find a convenient location to serve you.
Glossary of Terms:
- Gynecologic Care: Gynecology focuses on the reproductive system, sexual health and overall wellness
- Cisgender: A term for someone whose gender identity is the same as the sex they were labeled at birth. For example, a person labeled female at birth who identifies as a woman
- Transgender men: Trans individuals assigned female at birth who identify as men
- Transmasculine: People assigned female at birth who identify with masculinity to a greater extent than femininity but may not identify strictly as men
- Nonbinary: Individuals whose gender identity does not fit within the traditional categories of exclusively male or female
- Women’s Health: Howard Brown Health treats all people with a uterus and all people with a cervix
We understand that past healthcare experiences can shape how people feel about seeking care. Our primary care providers work to create a welcoming, affirming environment where you feel heard, respected, and supported. We are committed to compassionate women’s health care, ensuring every patient receives empathetic, patient-centered support throughout their visit.
What Is Gynecological Health Care and Why It Matters
Gynecology focuses on the reproductive system, sexual health, and overall wellness. It includes preventive screenings, diagnosis and treatment of conditions, and support across different life stages.
Regular reproductive health exams can:
- Detect health concerns early
- Prevent certain cancers and infections
- Support menstrual health and reproductive health
- Promote long-term wellbeing
- Provide important health education
- Ensure routine exams are accessible and comfortable which are essential for early detection and prevention in women’s health
How Often Should I See My Primary Care Provider for Gynecologic Services?
In general, an annual women’s health exam with your primary care provider is recommended to maintain your overall health and wellbeing.
Cervical Cancer Screenings
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, routine cervical cancer screening significantly reduces the risk of cervical cancer by identifying precancerous changes early. Your Howard Brown Health provider can help you manage when and what your next steps should be for your specific health care needs. Here are some general guidelines:
- Ages 21–29
- Start Pap tests at age 21
- If result is normal, repeat every 3 years
- Ages 30–65 (discuss options with your doctor)
- HPV test only (primary HPV testing): if normal, screen every 5 years
- HPV + Pap test (co-testing): if both normal, screen every 5 years
- Pap test only: if normal, screen every 3 years
- Older than 65
- You may be able to stop screening if:
- You’ve had 3 normal Pap tests or 2 normal HPV tests in the past 10 years
- You have no history of cervical precancer
- You had your cervix removed in a total hysterectomy for non-cancer reasons (e.g., fibroids)
Access to regular, affirming women’s reproductive exams plays a key role in reducing these disparities. To schedule an appointment for care with one of our physicians or PAs in Chicago, IL call 773.388.1600 to speak with our team and find the right clinic location.
Why Choose Howard Brown Health for Women’s Health Services in Chicago, IL
Howard Brown Health offers affirming, inclusive women’s reproductive and sexual health services for every stage of life. We do not currently offer obstetrics services but can make a referral to a specialist if you are pregnant.
Personalized gynecologic services include:
- Routine care gyn exams and review of health history as a form of preventive care (performed by our culturally competent nurse practitioners and providers)
- Personalized care and wellness goals
- Hormone therapy
- Pap tests (sometimes referred to as a pap smear) and HPV testing
- STI testing and treatment (sexually transmitted infections)
- Pelvic exam
- Osteoporosis screening
- Sexual health screening
- Evaluation and management of pelvic pain (Endometriosis)
- Cervical Dysplasia management
- Care for irregular periods or heavy bleeding (PCOS, Uterine Fibroids)
- Vulvar Disease (Vulvodynia, Vulvar Dystrophy)
- Pregnancy prevention and family planning – IUD, Nexplanon, Contraceptive Counseling
- Pregnancy testing and options counseling
- Menopause care and management
- Referrals for specialty care when needed
Inclusive and Gender Affirming Gynecologic Services for Cisgender Women and Transmasculine People
Many people delay or avoid reproductive health exams due to fear of stigma, discrimination, or discomfort in clinical settings. Howard Brown Health physicians and clinicians understand the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ affirming gynecologic care and are:
- Respectful
- Trauma-informed
- Identity-affirming
- Patient-centered
Our doctors are happy to answer questions and support you throughout your care experience. Here’s what you can expect when discussing your concerns with our team of experts:
- Use inclusive language and understanding
- Respect each patient’s personal identity
- Explain each step before exams or procedures
- Prioritize informed consent
- Affirming Education about care and risk
- Support patient comfort and choice
Many of our patients recommend Howard Brown Health to their friends and family because of the quality, trust, and affirming environment we provide. During your visit or consultation, our team is available to provide answers to any questions you may have about your health or treatment options. Many of our services are covered by a variety of insurance plans, making care more accessible and affordable. See more below about how our insurance navigators and sliding scale may be able to help you.
Women’s health services can be coordinated with other Howard Brown Health services, including behavioral health and sexual health services. This team-based approach is dedicated to supporting your overall well being.
Affordable Gynecologic Services in Chicago
We provide care regardless of ability to pay and help patients navigate insurance and public benefits. See more below about how our insurance navigators and sliding scale may be able to help you. Schedule a gynecology appointment by calling 773.388.1600 to speak to our team for support or to find a convenient location to serve you.
Women’s Health Conditions We Treat
At Howard Brown Health, we know that access to compassionate care shouldn’t depend on who you are or where you come from. That’s why our team of expert doctors and nurse practitioners work together to offer the highest quality care centered around your unique needs. When it comes to your health care, we listen first and meet you exactly where you are on your health journey.
Gynecologic Conditions
We understand that navigating healthcare can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with conditions like:
- abnormal Pap results
- endometriosis
- uterine fibroids
- UTIs (urinary tract infections)
- menstrual disorders
- ovarian cysts
- menopause
- osteoporosis
Please note for some of these conditions we would have to refer out to other specialist and imaging.
Family Planning
For those seeking family planning, we know that reproductive choices are deeply personal. That’s why we offer the full range of birth control options that make sense for your life, including:
- IUD placement and removal
- hormone therapy
- Comprehensive transition support for trans and nonbinary patients
If you’re ready to schedule an appointment, need more information, or simply want to find a provider who truly gets you, we invite you to connect with us. At Howard Brown Health, you’ll find a community that provides services in a way that celebrates your individuality and fights for your health at every age and stage. Let us help you achieve the wellness you deserve, because quality, affirming care should be available to everyone, no exceptions.
Schedule a gynecology appointment today by calling 773.388.1600 to speak to our team for support.
Health Insurance Options and Sliding Scale Fees
Navigating insurance can feel overwhelming. When it comes to GYN care, it’s important to understand your insurance coverage and out-of-pocket cost. Our team helps patients understand coverage options and access affordable care.
Insurance Support Includes:
- Assistance reviewing insurance plans
- Support with Medicare Part B and Medicare Part D for eligible patients
- Guidance on state and local assistance programs
Sliding Scale Fees
Howard Brown Health offers discounted services to eligible uninsured patients. Sliding scale fees are based on:
- Gross yearly household income
- Household size
We welcome patients regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Schedule a gynecology appointment by calling 773.388.1600 to speak to our team for support.
Gynecologic Service Locations in Chicago, Illinois
Our board-certified primary care physicians offer gynecology services at multiple Howard Brown Health offices across Chicago. To schedule an appointment in Chicago, call 773.388.1600 to speak with our practice team and we will help you find the right clinic location. You can feel confident that our team will:
- Help you find a convenient office location
- Match you with an affirming provider
- Offer appointment times that fit your schedule
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Gynecologic Services in Chicago
What is gynecologic care and who should receive it?
Gynecologic care focuses on the health of the reproductive system, including the cervix, uterus, ovaries, and related sexual health needs. Anyone with these organs may benefit from routine reproductive health exams, including cisgender women, transgender men, transmasculine individuals, and nonbinary people seeking women’s health services in Chicago.
How often should I schedule a gynecology exam?
Most people should see a provider for an annual women’s health exam. Your provider may recommend additional visits depending on your health history, symptoms, or screening schedule for tests such as Pap tests or HPV screening. If you are experiencing pain or other concerns, don’t hesitate to contact our office for guidance.
What happens during a routine women’s health exam?
A routine gynecologic visit may include a review of your medical history, preventive screenings, a pelvic exam if appropriate, and discussions about reproductive health, birth control, menopause care, or sexual health. Your provider may also recommend screenings such as Pap tests, STI testing, or HPV testing.
When should I start cervical cancer screening?
Cervical cancer screening generally begins at age 21 with a Pap test. Screening frequency varies by age and test type, and your provider will help determine the right screening schedule based on your individual health needs.
What gynecologic services are available at Howard Brown Health?
Howard Brown Health offers women’s reproductive care in Chicago, including preventive exams, Pap tests, HPV testing, STI testing and treatment, pelvic exams, menopause care, family planning, contraception counseling, hormone therapy, and evaluation of common gynecologic conditions.
We do not currently offer obstetrics services but can make a referral to a specialist to manage your pregnancy.
Do you provide LGBTQ+ affirming gynecologic services?
Yes. Our providers offer inclusive, gender-affirming gynecologic services for cisgender women, transgender men, transmasculine individuals, and nonbinary patients. Care is based on your anatomy and health needs, not assumptions about gender identity.
What gynecologic conditions can be treated during a visit?
Providers at Howard Brown Health diagnose and manage a wide range of reproductive health concerns, including abnormal Pap results, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, menstrual disorders, urinary tract infections (UTIs), menopause symptoms, and osteoporosis screening. Please note for some of these conditions we would have to refer out to other specialist and imaging.
Do you offer birth control and family planning services?
Yes. Our team provides family planning and contraception options including IUD placement, Nexplanon, birth control counseling, pregnancy testing, and options counseling to support your reproductive health goals.
Can I receive gynecologic services if I do not have insurance?
Yes. Howard Brown Health welcomes patients regardless of insurance status. Our team can help review insurance options and determine eligibility for discounted services through sliding scale fees based on household income and size.
How do I schedule a gynecologic service appointment?
Start your gynecologic care in one of our convenient Chicago offices by calling 773.388.1600 to schedule an appointment at a Howard Brown Health office near you. If you need assistance or are calling after hours, please leave a message and our team will follow up to help you.