Bastyr Center provides excellent focused care for women. From annual gynecological exams and fertility treatment to supportive care for menopause and osteoporosis, our physicians and student teams can address all aspects of women’s health. Women are offered preventive care as well as medical care for acute and chronic conditions.
At Bastyr Center, we believe excellent health translates into a more satisfying and successful life. Clinician teams can provide guidance for optimal nutritional and lifestyle changes to improve your energy level, your physical stamina and your general health. Experience the benefits of patient-centered care and individualized treatments based on your unique health picture; schedule an appointment today.
Women's Wellness Care: Frequently Asked Questions
Can a naturopathic doctor serve as my primary care provider?
Yes, in Washington state naturopathic doctors (NDs) are licensed as primary care physicians.
What women’s health services are available at Bastyr Center for Natural Health?
Among other services, Women’s Wellness Care practitioners at Bastyr Center are trained to:
- Perform your annual gynecological and breast exams.
- Prescribe birth control, including placement of intrauterine devices (IUDs).
- Offer supportive care for menopause and osteoporosis.
- Offer care for menstrual disorders, vaginal disorders, abnormal Pap smears, PMS and pelvic pain.
- Support fertility issues.
- Screen for and treat sexually transmitted infections.
Why should I choose a naturopathic doctor for my women’s health care needs?
In addition to treating any specific health care needs, a naturopathic doctor also will take the time to get to know you and to treat you as a whole person.
"We’re able to spend a lot of time to find a holistic treatment that works, especially for chronic conditions such as PMS, chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis,” says Laurie Cullen, ND, a Women’s Wellness Care practitioner at Bastyr Center.
"We focus on more than just one body part,” says Jane Guiltinan, ND, retired dean of the School of Naturopathic Medicine at Bastyr University. “We try to always look at the whole person to help the patient understand how to be well, stay well and take responsibility for their health and wellness."
How would a naturopathic doctor treat menopause?
If you’ve decided against hormone replacement therapy and are looking for other ways to treat your menopause symptoms, naturopathic doctors can discuss a variety of natural health treatments with you.
Lifestyle changes such as exercising more or changing your diet can help improve hot flashes, mood swings and other symptoms.
Dr. Cullen says some of her treatments have included adding more soy foods and recommending changes to a patient’s daily routine, including exercise, herbal or nutritional supplements, homeopathy and, for some women, hormone replacement therapy.
Can I treat fertility issues with natural medicine?
In many cases, fertility issues can be successfully treated with natural therapies, including diet, exercise, herbs and nutrients.
“I treat infertility by improving ovulatory function, primarily with patients affected by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS),” Dr. Cullen says. PCOS, a hormonal imbalance, is believed to be one of the leading causes of fertility problems in women.
What can I expect at my annual exam?
Similar to a gynecological exam at a conventional doctor’s office, your exam will include a pap smear, breast exam, a general wellness checkup and plenty of time for you to ask your own questions. If any irregularities are discovered, Bastyr Center practitioners are qualified to provide a follow-up checkup or refer you to a specialist.