In India, women from the low-income group are often exposed to breast cancer, lack of maternal healthcare and malnutrition. The main issues surrounding their health are reproductive diseases, HIV, sexually transmitted infections and non-communicable illnesses, according to an article published by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Institutions all across the world are striving hard to strengthen the health system to ensure quality life to women of all ages. So, here are a few women’s health checkups you must undergo to avoid any major health issues.
1. Pap Smear
This should be started when you are between 20 and 30 years of age, regardless of your sexual history, and done annually after that. It is performed to check for cervical cancer, which occurs in 1 in 5 women. Make it a habit to get tested every year, particularly if you have multiple sexual partners or have been smoking since a young age. Also, combine it with an HPV test, which is a sexual illness test.
2. Mammogram
To detect breast cancer,a mammogram is manually performed by doctors, along with X-ray images. Women aged in 50-74 years are at a high risk of developing cancer linked to certain genes, like BRCA 1 and BRCA 2. The ideal age for this test is 40,after which you can continue annual screenings. The best time is right after your menstrual cycle, since the breasts tend to remain tender during menstruation.
3. Blood Pressure Scans
Heart attacks, strokes and diabetes are common after-effects of high blood pressure. Therefore, it is extremely important to get yourself checked regularly to ensure that your blood pressure does not dip below 120/80. Women who participate in regular physical activities, causing stress, should consider the tests. Starting at age 20, women should get themselves checked once every two years.
4. STD Screenings
This test is extremely important because there are hardly any symptoms. Anyone who is trying to conceive, has had unprotected sex or is involved with multiple sexual partners can be at high risk of contracting Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Genital Warts and Genital Herpes. Additionally, they might pass on the infection to their partners as well. Get yourself checked annually or every three to six months, depending on how often you change partners or experience pain during sexual intercourse.
5. Lipid Profile Test
Any woman aged 20 and above must consider a baseline screening to detect cholesterol levels. You must undergo the screening every 4-6 years to reduce the risk of heart diseases. The ideal measurement should be 200mg/dl. Make sure to get it done regularly after turning 45, since the chances of cardiovascular ailments and gallbladder diseases increase with age.
6. Skin Test
An annual skin check is beneficial after you turn 30. This helps detecta type of skin cancer, called Melanoma. The dermatologist usually looks for color changes or mole growths, particularly if you are exposed to the sun at most times. If you have freckles or a history of basal cell, repeat the test twice a year. Full-body checkups must begin as soon as you reach your 40s.
7. Vaginal Ultrasound
A vaginal ultrasound would be useful for females experiencing pelvic pain or have a family history of ovarian cancer. The gynecologist will check for any abnormal growth like cysts in the uterus and ovaries. Additionally, the fallopian tubes are thoroughly examined to screen for cancers.
8. Colonoscopy
Start getting this test done when you are 50. Unless there are great risks or issues, onecan repeat the test after 10 years. The polyps can be effectively detected and removed, which eliminates the risk of colon cancer.
Consistent women’s health checkups can diagnose several conditions well ahead of time, thus improving the odds of getting cured with early treatment. Get in touch with the best healthcare institution for an appointment.
This infographic was created by Senior Healthcare Direct, learn more about medicare advantage coverage
