Women, being the primary carers of their families in the majority of situations, both for children and elderly parents, need an extra dimension to their medical care. This requires recognition of their constant giving and caring.

Here in CMC we treat women holistically, endeavouring to recognise their diverse needs and assisting them in taking care of themselves mentally and physically. By doing this, we help them to maintain their wellness which by extension promotes wellness in the whole family.

WELL-WOMAN CHECK-UP

We have a customised Well Woman Check Up in the practice for many years. This includes a questionnaire of your personal and family health history, which may be filled out before your appointment.
You will have a first appointment with our Nurse who will take your blood tests, perform ECG, lung function tests as indicated, a smear test if indicated and a BMI check (weight to height assessment). This will be followed a week later by an appointment with the doctor of your choice, who will review your health questionnaire, blood results and perform a full physical examination. The doctor will discuss all issues arising from your questionnaire and examination and organise follow up investigations as necessary.

FAMILY PLANNING

Preconceptual checkup and advice – this is a very worthwhile assessment as it answers any questions or anxieties you may have before embarking on a pregnancy. Your immunity to Rubella and Chicken Pox can be checked at this visit. If you have any worries about your or your partner’s fertility we can discuss this and investigate as necessary.

Contraception – All our doctor provide comprehensive contraception advice. The Mirena Coil and Implanon contraceptive implant can also be inserted here by appointment.
The Government has decided to provide a free contraception service for women and people aged 17 to 26 years inclusive, extending up to 30 years in 2023. This includes contraceptive injections, implants, IUS and IUDs (coils), the contraceptive patch and ring, and various forms of oral contraceptive pill, including emergency contraception. For items such as the contraceptive pill, these are typically prescribed at 6-month intervals. We will require your PPSN to avail of this service.

Antenatal Care – We provide shared antenatal care with hospitals in the region – UCHG and Portiuncula and Castlebar. You are entitled to five antenatal visits and one post-natal visit free from the HSE. At your first visit, you will be asked to sign a form to apply for this service. Any visits pertaining to conditions not related to your pregnancy are charged separately. Please discuss vaccines in pregnancy during your check up.

CERVICAL SMEARS

Our doctors and nurse are accredited to the National Cervical Check Programme. Please contact reception to make an appointment.

BREAST CHECK

Regular self-examination of breasts is advised generally but especially if one is taking the contraceptive pill or if there is a family history of breast cancer. We can ensure you are checking properly and provide you with literature to ensure you continue to examine carefully. You will automatically be called every two years to Breast Check for routine mammograms after the age of fifty. You can check if you are on their list at breastcheck.ie.

MENOPAUSE MANAGEMENT

Menopause can be a difficult time for some women, so we are available to discuss symptoms and advise regarding management and treatment. See menopausematters.co.uk.

OSTEOPOROSIS MANAGEMENT

Family history, smoking and dietary issues are major factors in developing osteoporosis. We can advise regarding prevention and refer for evaluation as required. See irishosteoporosis.ie.