May is Women’s Health Month, and it’s the perfect time to put your health and well-being first.

From routine check-ups to maternal care, here are 4 easy steps you can take to prioritize your reproductive and overall health.

1. Schedule a Well-Check Visit

A well-check visit is a type of routine visit that can help you deal with health issues you already have, find any new health problems, and keep you on track for overall well-being. At your well-check visit, you may get:

  • Eyesight and hearing tests
  • A pap test (cervical cancer screening for people with a cervix)
  • Any shots you may need
  • Testing for HIV, Hepatitis C, and other infectious diseases

Based on your age, you may need other tests, screenings, or shots during your well-check visit. Ask your primary care provider (PCP)* what is right for you.

2. Choose What Birth Control Works Best for You

If you are sexually active and do not want to get pregnant, it’s important to choose a birth control method that works for you. Some common birth control methods include:

  • Birth Control Pills
  • Vaginal Rings
  • Hormonal or Copper IUDs
  • Implants
  • Condoms

All types of birth control have different pros and cons. Some birth control methods can also support your sexual health by stopping the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Learn more about your birth control choices by going to sfhp.org/health-ed and clicking on the “Birth Control Options” fact sheet. Medi-Cal covers birth control and abortion care at no cost to you.

3. Get Prenatal and Postpartum Care

Medi-Cal covers many maternal health services that can help you have a safe and healthy pregnancy and postpartum period.

Prenatal care is the care you get before your baby is born. Prenatal care helps make sure your baby is as healthy as possible and is not born too early.

When you visit your PCP for a prenatal check-up in the first three months (trimester) of your pregnancy, or within the first 42 days of joining SFHP Medi-Cal, you can earn a $50 gift card! You can use your first visit to ask questions, learn about healthy eating, and find out how your baby is growing.

Postpartum care is the care you get after your pregnancy is over. During your postpartum period (6 weeks to a year after your pregnancy ends), you may notice changes in your body, mood, activities, and diet.

Talk to your PCP if you are feeling sad, anxious, or empty. You can also ask your PCP about breastfeeding, vaccines (shots), newborn tests, and more. Get $50 when you visit your PCP for a postpartum health visit within 2-12 weeks after the end of your pregnancy.

Learn more at sfhp.org/health-rewards.

4. Find Support from a Doula

A doula (birth worker) can support you before, during, and up to a year after the end of your pregnancy. They can help you:

  • Talk about your health care with your providers
  • Get health education
  • Get physical, emotional, and other support that is not medical
  • Get support during a miscarriage, stillbirth, and abortion

Medi-Cal covers doula care at no cost to you. To learn more about your doula care benefit, call SFHP Customer Service at 1(800) 288-5555 or 1(415) 547-7800, TTY 1(888) 883-7347.

This Women’s History Month, set yourself up for long-term reproductive health and well-being. Take the first steps towards a healthier you today!

*A primary care provider (PCP) is your main doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner in charge of your health care.

More Help from SFHP

  • Customer Service: Our team can answer your questions about benefits and health services. Call 1(415) 547-7800, 1(800) 288-5555 (toll-free) or 1(415) 547-7830 TTY. Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm.
  • Interpreter Services: You can get an interpreter in-person or by phone for your health visits. When you make an appointment, ask for an interpreter at the same time.
  • Need a Ride? SFHP can help you get transportation to any medical appointment covered by Medi-Cal. Ask your provider or call Customer Service.
  • Interested in Medi-Cal Benefits? See if you or your family can get Medi-Cal through SFHP.

Learn more about your covered Medi-Cal benefits and services.