It’s recommended that all women aged 18 and over attend their GP every 2 years for a Women’s Health Check.
It is recommended that a double consultation is booked so that several checks and discussions can be done.
Cervical Screening Test
In December 2017, the Cervical Screening Test replaced the Pap test in Australia. Routine cervical screening is your best protection against cervical cancer.
The Cervical Screening Test is more effective than the Pap test at preventing cervical cancers, and is just as safe to be done every five years instead of every two
The test is a simple procedure to check the health of your cervix. It feels the same as the Pap test, but tests for the human papillomavirus (known as HPV). For most women aged 25 to 74, your first Cervical Screening Test is due two years after your last Pap test. After that, you will only need to have the test every five years if your result is normal.
For more information please visit:
http://www.cancerscreening.gov.au/internet/screening/publishing.nsf/Content/cervical-screening-1
Breast Check
During a Women’s Health Check, a breast examination is also conducted. Once women turn 50 years of age a free mammogram screening is also arranged at this time.
STD Screening
In women who feel that it is relevant to them, sexually transmitted disease screening can be conducted during the consultation. As STDs can occur without the woman experiencing symptoms, screening is offered as part of a women’s health check, as is a discussion about safe sex practices.
Women are also invited to discuss other matters that may be of concern to them.
These may include:
• Contraceptive Options
• Menopause
• Sleep
• Mood disorders or symptoms of anxiety and depression
• Nutrition
• Exercise
• Other preventative health measures such as blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes checks.
June 19, 2018