Women’s Health Checks: Are you up to date?

An apple a day keeps the doctor away. So, it turns out, can a pandemic.
Concerningly, reports from the last 18 months show some women are delaying life-saving health screenings and medical appointments—for reasons relating to COVID-19.
That’s alarming because regular health checks are an important part of staying well. And—yes, we hear it all the time, but it’s true—early detection really is best.
Health screenings can give us a snapshot of what’s going on inside. They can give you peace of mind and the information you need to make decisions about your health.
At Access Health and Community, we offer a wide range of women’s health services and have measures in place to keep you safe when you see us—as well as telehealth options for health concerns that can be addressed over phone or video call.
So, don’t delay. Book your next screening today.
Keep your health in check with these essential
screening tests for women:
This screening checklist is a general guide. Make your own health check schedule with your doctor if you have an ongoing condition or a higher risk of a condition due to family history. And if you have any symptoms at any time, don’t delay. See a doctor immediately.
Breas
t scans (mammograms)
Why: To detect breast changes that are too small for you or your doctor to feel.
What: A mammogram is a special X-ray that spreads out the breast tissue to give your doctor a clear picture of any signs of cancer and other types of breast changes.
When:
- You should be screened between the ages of 50 to 74. If you’re in your 40s or over 75, talk to your doctor to find out if breast screening is right for you.
- You’re eligible for free mammograms through BreastScreen Australia when you turn 40.
- See your doctor any time if you experience breast pain, lumps or discharge from the nipple or other changes.
How often:
- Have a mammogram every 2 years.
Bone density screening 
Why: To check for low bone density and osteoporosis (fragile bones).
What: A bone density scan (sometimes called a DEXA test) measures the thickness and strength of your bones, using low-dosage X-rays, as you lie flat on a padded table.
When:
- If you’re over 70 years old.
- If you’re at risk. You may be at risk if you have or have had: thyroid problems, poor diet, an eating disorder, a previous fracture, or have a family history of osteoporosis.
How often: As recommended by your doctor.
Bowel screening 
Why: To screen for bowel cancer.
What: Australians receive a free and simple home screening kit in the mail as part of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. Simply follow the instructions and post the completed test in the envelope provided.
When: For people aged between 50 and 74.
How often: Every 2 years if you have no symptoms. If you have symptoms or a strong family history, or if you are concerned about your risk of bowel cancer, speak to your doctor.
Cervical screening 
Why: The Cervical Screening Test detects HPV infection, which is a key risk factor in the development of cervical cancer.
What: Replacing the Pap test in 2017, a Cervical Screening Test is more effective, and just as safe as, screening with a Pap test. Make an appointment with your doctor.
When: All women aged 25 to 74 who’ve ever been sexually active need to have a Cervical Screening Test.
How often: Women aged 25–74 will be due for their first Cervical Screening Test two years after their last Pap test. If it’s been more than two years, speak to your doctor as soon as possible.
After their first Cervical Screening Test, women will only need to be tested every five years.
If you have any symptoms at any age – such as unusual bleeding, discharge or pain – see a doctor as soon as possible.
Comprehensive health assessments
Why: To identify any preventable health conditions and illnesses.
What: At Access Health and Community, our health and wellness checks help female patients over 75 to stay healthy and active for longer. They usually involve screening checks including:
- Cholesterol and diabetes check
- Kidney check
- Bone density screening, looking for osteoporosis
- Eye test
- Hearing test
- Skin checks
When: Any age if you’re at risk, or if you’re over 75.
How often: Once a year, or as your doctor advises.
Diabetes Type 2 checks 
Why: To find out if you have diabetes Type 2, a condition that occurs when your blood sugar (glucose) is too high.
What: If your doctor suspects you have diabetes, they’ll get you to do a blood test to check your glucose levels (blood sugar). This may involve testing your glucose levels after you fast.
When: From 40 years of age (or 18 if Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander).
How often: Every three years, or more often if you have:
- heart disease
- a history of gestational diabetes
- polycystic ovaries
- a history of prescribed antipsychotic drugs.
Preconception health check 
Why: To make sure you’re in the best health before becoming pregnant.
What: A pre-pregnancy check assesses your general health. As part of this, you may get blood tests, a Cervical Screening Test, and an immunisation status check.
When: If you’re thinking about starting a family.
How often: 3 months before your planned pregnancy.
Heart health checks 
Why: Find out if you’re developing or at risk of heart disease and develop a plan to reduce your risk of heart attack and other complications.
What: Heart disease is called the silent killer because it often has no symptoms.
So, we monitor your blood pressure, weight, cholesterol, and your blood sugar to help you catch it early.
When: Some heart-related checkups should begin after you turn 18 (blood pressure).
How often:
- Blood pressure check – every 2 years after you turn 18
- Cholesterol check – every 5 years after you turn 45
- Diabetes check (blood sugar) – every 3 years after you turn 40
Sexually Transmitted Infection
(STI) screening 
Why: To check for sexually transmissible diseases.
What: Testing may involve a blood test, swab or a urine sample to de
tect STI’s such as chlamydia, which can go undetected and affect your fertility.
When:
- Before a new partner
- If you’re under 30 and sexually active–have a urine test for chlamydia annually
How often: As required.
Skin health checks 
Why: To check for different types of skin cancers, such as melanoma.
What: Your GP can perform a full body skin cancer screening and examine any unusual spots. They may take a biopsy and/or refer you to a specialist, if required.
When: Any age is good to start self-examining your skin. Book an appointment as soon as you notice a suspicious-looking spot.
How often: once a year, or more if you are at higher risk of skin cancer.

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