Breaking the Stigma: WVU Student Health Provides Access to Gynecological Care

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — For many students at West Virginia University, managing personal health can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to gynecological care. Navigating exams, tests and preventive care for the first time—often without parental guidance—can feel daunting.

However, thanks to providers dedicated to women’s care, like Carrie Pratt, APRN, a nurse practitioner at WVU Student Health, students are finding the care and education they need in a comfortable, judgment-free environment.

Pratt, who has been with WVU Student Health since 2015, brings extensive experience in women’s health and young adult care. Her passion for educating and supporting young patients stems from years of work in teen health clinics in South Carolina, where she witnessed firsthand the impact of accessible care.

"There’s a big lack of education among young adults when it comes to their own health,' Pratt said. "Many students don’t fully understand how their bodies work, how to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections, or even how to manage menstrual health."

One of the biggest barriers students face in seeking gynecological care is discomfort—both physical and emotional. Fear of judgment, misinformation and the stigma surrounding sexual health often prevent students from making necessary appointments.

"We put this stigma on gynecological care, making it seem taboo," Pratt said. "But in reality, understanding your body and taking care of your health should be normalized, for both males and females.”

To help ease concerns, Pratt and her colleagues prioritize education and open dialogue. From explaining procedures before they happen to debunking myths about exams and treatments, their goal is to make each visit as transparent and stress-free as possible.

"I always show them the tools, explain exactly what's going to happen and reassure them that they should never feel pain just pressure," Pratt said. "The unknown is what scares [people] the most, so I take that out of the equation."

For students who may be unsure whether they need an appointment, Pratt's advice is simple.

"If something feels off—whether it’s irregular bleeding, worsening cramps or unusual symptoms—come in and get checked," she said. "It’s always better to be safe."

Another challenge Pratt faces is the overwhelming presence of misinformation online. Many students turn to social media platforms such as TikTok for health advice, often encountering unreliable or even dangerous recommendations.

"There’s so much misinformation out there—especially when it comes to home remedies and self-diagnosing," Pratt said. "I always try to provide students with reliable, evidence-based resources so they have the right information to make informed decisions."

Despite the challenges, Pratt finds deep fulfillment in her work. She takes pride in seeing the transformation of a nervous patient into a confident one.

"The most rewarding part of my job is when a student comes in anxious and scared but leaves feeling relieved and empowered," she said. "It’s about giving them the tools to take control of their own health."

Through her dedication and expertise, Pratt is not only providing care—she's creating a culture of openness, education and empowerment at WVU.

For students who have questions about gynecological health, need to schedule an appointment or simply want to learn more, WVU Student Health is ready to help.

WVU Student Health offers a wide range of gynecological services including:

• Annual exams, including Pap smears for those 21 and older.

• Sexually transmitted infection testing through simple urine samples or blood draws.

• Contraceptive counseling and access to all birth control options, including long-acting reversible contraceptives such as intrauterine devices and Nexplanon.

• Human papillomavirus vaccinations for cancer prevention.

• Care for menstrual irregularities, infections and other concerns.

• Follow up care for sexual violence in conjunction with the Carruth Center and Healthy Minds University.

-WVU-

MEDIA CONTACT: Christie Matyola
Senior Communications Specialist
WVU Health Sciences
732-966-2107; christie.matyola@hsc.wvu.edu