The Importance of Women’s Health Screenings
Women’s health screenings are a vital part of keeping women healthy. They aim to catch diseases early when they are more easily treatable. This can not only save time and money but also save lives. This article looks at some of the most common health screenings for women. Then, we will explain what to expect from each screening and give general guidelines on how often they should occur.
Common women’s health screenings
Women have more complex reproductive systems. Therefore, they need more health screenings than men. In addition, certain diseases, such as osteoporosis, are a bigger issue for women of a certain age than men. The following are screenings that most women should be having:
Cervical cancer screening
A Pap smear involves collecting cells from the cervix so they can be tested for cervical cancer. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), women aged 21-65 should have a Pap test once every three years, even if they have had the HPV vaccine. Though this is the general guideline, exceptions are made for women with a history of cervical cancer, HIV, or compromised immune systems. In addition, those exposed to the hormone diethylstilbestrol or DES before birth may need screening more often.
Sexually transmitted diseases
Certain sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, can be silent in women. This means the infection may not cause noticeable symptoms until it has damaged the woman’s reproductive system. For this reason, women at high risk should consider having regular STD screenings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises all sexually active women under 25 to be tested yearly for gonorrhea and chlamydia. This rule also applies to women 25 and older with risk factors such as multiple intimate partners. Women who are pregnant should also be screened for STDs.
Mammogram and Breast Exam
Breast exams are suggested for women every one to three years as part of their annual check-ups. In addition, women should conduct regular breast exams on themselves at home. The American Cancer Society recommends women start having annual mammograms around age 45, possibly earlier if they have a family history of the disease or other risk factors. A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast tissue that can detect breast cancer earlier when it is easier to treat.
Bone Density
Osteoporosis is when a person’s bones weaken and break easily. Though the disease affects men too, it is especially common in women post-menopause. Therefore, a yearly bone density test is suggested for women aged 65 and older. However, those with certain risk factors may want to start screening earlier.
Some women may want to consider additional screenings based on their family history and health situation.
Make time for women’s health screenings
Preventive care is crucial for staying healthy. That is why our team encourages women not to skip these important health screenings. Call us today to learn more about the women’s health screenings we offer.
Request an appointment here: https://stonesprings.millenniummedicalcare.com or call Millennium Medical Care Stone Springs at (703) 665-3242 for an appointment in our Sterling office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Women’s Health Screenings in Sterling, VA.
Related Posts
When an illness or injury does not improve with home care or appears to worsen, it may be time to seek medical care from a healthcare professional. Sometimes it is evident the issue is an emergency, and the patient should head to the ER. However, an urgent care or primary care provider can treat a…
Blood work is an essential tool primary care providers use to assess overall health, diagnose conditions, and monitor ongoing treatment. Routine blood tests offer valuable insights into the body's functions, helping detect potential health issues early. Understanding the different types of blood work and their purposes can help clarify why PCP recommend these tests during…
Internal medicine focuses primarily on the general health of adults. Internists can diagnose, treat, and manage various medical conditions. However, the most effective treatment for any health condition is prevention. Fortunately, internists can provide patients with the education, tools, and resources necessary to keep their bodies healthy and in working order.According to the American College of…
Immunizations are an easy, effective way to stay healthy. That includes protection against seasonal influenza, more commonly known as the flu. Understanding the basics of these seasonal immunizations can help protect your health, your family’s, and the community’s. It can also give you a better idea of when to ask a primary care or family…