Part of being a woman is being aware of some of the conditions you might be vulnerable to, especially as you age. The good news is that advanced testing exists, which allows us to be more informed ahead of time. Today, Women’s Health Specialists will answer the following question: How can regular screenings help early detection of women’s health issues?
Common Conditions
Many aspects of female health can be monitored, either directly by your provider at Women’s Health Specialists or in conjunction with your other primary care doctor. Here are some common areas of concern:
- Reproductive Health
- Pregnancy-Related Conditions
- Breast Health
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Autoimmune Diseases
- Urinary Tract Health
- Digestive Health
- Sexual Health
- Aging and Menopause
- Sleep Disorders
How Testing Helps
For some of these issues, regular health screenings exist for prevention and early detection. We can guarantee timely treatment and better outcomes by identifying them as early as possible. The following are some of the key health screenings you have access to:
- Pap Smear: The purpose of this test is to detect cervical cancer, and occurs every three years for women aged 21-65, or slightly more spaced out depending on your health history. We can identify this condition by finding abnormal cells in the cervix.
- Pelvic Exam: A pelvic exam assesses the health of your reproductive organs, including the vagina, uterus, and ovaries. This should occur with your OB-GYN annually for women over 21 or as recommended by your provider.
- HPV Test: Human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause cervical cancer. This testing can be performed in conjunction with a Pap smear for women over thirty.
- Mammogram: We use this screening to detect abnormalities in the breast tissue, which could indicate breast cancer. This becomes especially important around ages 40-75, depending on genetic risk factors.
- STD Screening: For sexually active women under 25, this should occur annually to detect conditions like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV. Again, the frequency depends on individual risk factors.
- Thyroid Function Test: The thyroid can signal a number of disorders, found by measuring thyroid hormone levels. Starting at age 35, this should be screened at least every five years. Some women have their thyroid removed as a result.
- Genetic Testing: This technology allows us to identify genetic predispositions to certain hereditary conditions or cancers. It can be especially helpful if there is a known history of colon, breast, or ovarian cancer. Further testing can also be helpful for identifying certain vitamin deficiencies which may impact a pregnancy.
- Blood Glucose Levels: If you have predisposed risk for diabetes, this test will help you measure blood sugar levels. This should be done every three years starting at age 45.
- Colonoscopy: Every 5-10 years, starting around age 45, this test screens for colorectal cancer by detecting polyps or cancer in the colon and rectum.
- Liver Function Test: This test detects liver diseases by measuring enzymes and proteins in the blood. It can be key for those with risk factors related to alcohol or hepatitis.
- Kidney Function Test: Kidney screenings should happen annually, especially for those with diabetes or high blood pressure. They measure the levels of waste products in the blood.
- Depression/Mental Health Screening: This helps patients identify symptoms of depression or other mental health issues. It can be particularly important during and after pregnancy or when symptoms are present. Mental health is directly connected to physical health and should never be ignored or neglected.
Your OB-GYN will conduct many of the screenings mentioned above, and they will be able to provide extended explanations to any questions you may have along the way.
FAQs About Testing
Q: What should I do if my screening results are abnormal?
While this can be worrying, do not panic. Your provider(s) are here to guide you diligently through whatever next steps may arise. This often means additional tests or procedures for clarification or referral to specialists.
Q: Can I skip my screenings if I feel fine?
Many patients make this mistake. Many conditions don’t present themselves immediately, like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and even some cancers. These tests are intended to catch conditions during these blind stages, which is why it’s vital to stay on top of your testing schedule. This is especially critical when you’re aware of existing risk factors.
Q: What lifestyle factors affect my screenings?
Factors like smoking, alcohol use, diet, exercise, and sexual activity can all relate to the frequency of your screenings and what kind you may need. Rest assured, your provider at Women’s Health Specialists will inform you of which ones make sense for you.
Service You Can Trust
Regardless of whether you’re looking for a new provider or are a returning patient, we’ll be happy to see you at our Germantown office!