Women’s Health

This is why regular gynaecology check-ups are important:

Unfortunately, a lot of the conditions that affect women’s health CAN be present without ANY obvious signs. That is why annual gynaecology exams are so important. It is one of the best ways you can keep an eye on your health. All women should know that illnesses such as breast, cervical and ovarian cancer have few obvious symptoms. The earlier the detection the better the chances of survival.

But when should you start to see a gynaecologist? Well, if you are older than 21 and it’s been more than a year since your last visit, then now is a good time to schedule your appointment.

Let’s face it, a visit to a gynaecologist is not every woman’s favourite appointment, but a pelvic examination is crucial to your overall health. But when should you start? Or when would be the best time to bring your daughter? Doctors recommend that as early as ages 13 to 15 is a good time to start. While pelvic examination is almost never required, it is good to start early in life to help establish a good doctor-patient relations.

Screening test, however, start at the age of 21. By means of a simple, quick procedure called a Pap test. It is named after Georgios Papanikolaou, the doctor who determined its use in detecting early signs that could lead to cervical cancer. Generally, an annual pelvic examination, combined with a Pap test, has been a standard practice for all adult women. While Pap test guideline sometimes change, and many women require screening for cervical cancer only once every three to five years, an annual pelvic examination should not be associated with a Pap test. This test is only one small component of the pelvic examination. Women are encouraged to have a brief consultation with their gynaecologists every year, irrespective of whether they are due for a Pap test.

You do not have to feel scared or shy to ask any questions or discuss concerns with your doctor. Things like body changes, sexual activity and bowel or bladder problems are the type of issues your doctor deal with regularly. Your healthcare provider should exchange information with you in a compassionate, caring and confidential way. If you don’t feel this way, you should seek a different provider.

Gynaecologists are trained to care for women from adolescence through older age and understands a woman’s changing health care needs. He or she can address:

• birth control
• sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening and prevention
• vaginal infections
• menstrual problems
• pelvic pain
• sexual function
• preconception counselling
• fertility
• menopausal symptoms
• bone health
• urinary leakage
• breast changes

All these things can seem quite overwhelming. But remember that regular check-ups can help find potential health issues before they become a problem. Early detection gives you the best chance for getting the right treatment quickly. So, take charge of your health and contact the doctors at M-Care to schedule your appointment.