Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our services, treatments, and what to expect at Just Us Women’s Health.
General Questions
Where is the office located?
Our office is located at 10 Congress Street, Suite 400, Pasadena, CA 91103. Parking is available in the open lot south of our building, entering off of Fair Oaks Avenue. Alternatively, you may park in the Huntington Hospital parking structure adjacent to our building. We do not validate for parking.
What are your clinic hours?
Monday-Thursday 8:30am – 5:30pm
Friday 8:30am – 2:30pm
We are closed from 12:30pm to 1:30pm daily and the phones are answered by our answering service during these hours.
To reach the office directly, please call during regular business hours.
What insurances do you accept?
Dr. Robinson is a Preferred Provider for the following insurance plans: Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Blue Shield Covered - California Plans, Cigna, Keenan Health (Huntington Employees), United Healthcare, and Medicare.
Wellness & Preventive Care
What is included in a well-woman visit?
A well-woman visit focuses on your overall reproductive and preventive health. Depending on your age, health history, and individual needs, your visit may include cervical and breast cancer screening, contraception and family planning, STI screening, menstrual or hormonal concerns, and assessment of your long-term health risks.
How often should I have a well-woman exam?
Most women benefit from a preventive visit every year, even when a Pap smear is not due. Your annual visit is an opportunity to review changes in your menstrual cycle, reproductive goals, sexual health, medications, family history, and other concerns that may affect your health over time.
Do I need a Pap smear every year?
No. Pap and HPV screening intervals depend on your age, previous results, and medical history. We review your screening history and recommend testing based on current guidelines and your individual risk factors.
Can we discuss concerns other than my Pap smear during my annual visit?
Absolutely. Women's health is about much more than a checklist of screening tests. Your visit is also an opportunity to discuss periods, contraception, fertility goals, sexual health, hormonal changes, family history, and concerns about your health as you move through different stages of life.
Fertility and Preconception
When should I schedule a fertility consultation?
We recommend scheduling a consultation if you have been trying to conceive for 6-12 months (depending on age), have irregular cycles, or want to optimize your health before trying.
What happens at the first visit?
We'll review your medical history, discuss your goals, and create a personalized plan that may include testing, cycle tracking, and treatment options.
Do you perform in-vitro fertilization (IVF)?
We provide comprehensive fertility evaluation and many first-line treatments. If IVF is needed, we'll refer you to a trusted fertility clinic and continue to support your care.
How long does fertility treatment take?
The timeline depends on your age, diagnosis, menstrual cycles, testing results, and treatment plan. After your initial evaluation, we'll discuss what to expect and when it may be appropriate to consider additional treatment or referral to a reproductive endocrinologist.
PCOS and Hormonal Balance
How is PCOS diagnosed?
PCOS is now actually called polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) and it is diagnosed through a combination of symptoms, physical examination, blood work to check hormone levels and metabolic function, and often an ultrasound. We take a comprehensive approach to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Can PCOS be cured?
While PCOS cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with the right treatment approach. Many symptoms improve significantly with proper care.
Will I be able to get pregnant with PCOS?
Yes, many women with PCOS can conceive with appropriate treatment. We provide comprehensive fertility support and work with you to optimize your chances of conception.
Do I need to take medication for PCOS?
Treatment is individualized. Some women manage PCOS through lifestyle changes alone, while others benefit from medication. We'll create a personalized plan based on your specific symptoms and goals.
Hormone Therapy & Menopause
What is the difference between perimenopause and menopause?
Perimenopause is the transition phase leading up to menopause, typically beginning in your 40s (sometimes in your 30s). Menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period. Both phases can bring hormonal changes and symptoms.
Are hormones safe?
When prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully, hormone therapy can be safe and effective for many women. We evaluate your individual risk factors and health history to determine the best approach for you.
How long does hormone therapy take to work?
Many women notice improvements in symptoms within 2-4 weeks, though it can take up to 3 months to see full benefits. We'll work together to adjust your treatment as needed.
What if I can't take hormones?
We offer several non-hormonal treatment options including lifestyle modifications, supplements, and medications proven to help manage menopausal symptoms effectively.
Advanced Gynecologic Surgery
What is vNOTES?
VNOTES (Vaginal Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery) is an advanced technique that allows complex gynecologic surgery through the vagina, leaving no visible scars and often resulting in faster recovery.
How long is recovery after surgery?
Recovery time varies by procedure, but minimally invasive techniques typically allow most patients to return to normal activities within 2-4 weeks, compared to 6-8 weeks for traditional surgery.
Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital?
Many of our minimally invasive procedures are outpatient, meaning you go home the same day. More complex surgeries may require an overnight stay.
How do I know if I am a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?
During your consultation, we'll review your medical history, symptoms, and diagnostic imaging to determine the best surgical approach for your situation.
Pregnancy & Obstetric Care
When should I schedule my first prenatal visit?
We recommend scheduling around 8-10 weeks of pregnancy, or as soon as you have a positive pregnancy test if you have specific concerns.
How often will I have appointments?
Typically monthly until 28 weeks, then every 2 weeks until 36 weeks, then weekly until delivery. This may vary based on your individual needs.
Do you deliver at Huntington Hospital?
Yes, we deliver at Huntington Hospital in Pasadena, which offers excellent maternal and newborn care with a supportive environment.
What if I have a high-risk pregnancy?
We co-manage high-risk pregnancies with maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialists while continuing to provide your primary obstetric care.
OB Care Plus
What makes OB Care Plus different?
OB Care Plus offers enhanced access to Dr. Robinson, longer appointment times, and 24/7 communication for a more supported, personalized pregnancy experience.
How much does OB Care Plus cost?
OB Care Plus is a concierge program with an additional fee. Contact us for detailed pricing and what's included.
Can I switch to OB Care Plus during my pregnancy?
Yes, you can enroll in OB Care Plus at any point during your pregnancy, however ideally you would like to enroll by 20 weeks for maximum benefit. Contact us to discuss the transition.
Is OB Care Plus covered by insurance?
Standard prenatal care is covered by insurance. The OB Care Plus concierge fee is an additional out-of-pocket cost for enhanced services.