Health Topics: Women's Health

A Pap smear is a simple, routine test that looks for any abnormalities of the cervix in women. 

After your baby is born, one of the pediatricians will visit you and the baby at the hospital. Schedule an appointment 10 days later and then come in for regular well-child care.  This section includes information on lactation support and breast pumps.

Contraception (birth control) is the term used to describe pregnancy prevention. If you are sexually active or thinking about becoming sexually active, there are many things to consider.

As your body prepares for delivery, the cervix will usually soften and begin to open.  The cervical mucous (plug), which may be mixed with a little blood, may pass.  Although this may happen several days before delivery, it frequently is a sign of impending labor.  If you have bright red bleeding, notify us immediately.

Whether you are planning to start a family now, have an unplanned pregnancy, or want to defer pregnancy, you may have questions related to your fertility, medical history, plans for childbearing, prenatal nutrition, or knowledge of birth control. Counseling and advice are available on any subject that concerns you before, during, and after pregnancy by contacting your PCP. We recognize that an unplanned pregnancy may present you with complicated decisions and conflicting feelings. This section provides information on continuing a pregnancy, terminating a pregnancy, and adoption.

On-Campus Resources: Women's Health

Call: 617-495-9629
Medical Services
Your primary care clinician can help with questions or concerns regarding prevention of pregnancy and/or sexually transmitted infections. Call to make an appointment.

Peer Contraceptive Counselors (PCC)
617-495-7561
PCC is a group of male and female undergraduates trained to counsel students on issues of sexuality, relationships, STIs, AIDS/HIV, safe sex and contraception. The PCC office is open for both calls and drop-in visits, and provides free condoms, dental dams, lubricants, and a varied library of sexual health literature. PCC counselors are available every night from 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. on the 5th floor of HUHS.  Summer hours vary.

Call: 617-495-4292

Students who have questions about other campus and community resources during pregnancy (such as housing, financial aid, time away from campus, etc.) may contact the Director of the Harvard College Women's Center at 617-495-4292. The Director can provide unbiased, confidential support for students seeking information, services, and resources related to women’s needs and concerns.

Healthwise Resources: Women's Health

For more information about pregnacy, prenatal care, and childbirth.