Introduction– Women have to go through a lot of ups and downs in life and these major changes are mirrored by the body- in the form of hormonal shifts and in how the reproductive system works. Studies tend to show that men are more likely to get diagnosed because they prioritise their health a little better than women- who are all about getting work done, setting priorities and moving ahead in life. So, unless there is a real problem, women don’t really think going to a doctor will help. This thought process can be normal, but it is not necessarily right. 

What is Preventive Gynaecological Care?

Preventive care essentially means being proactive and getting tested regularly, so that even if you feel normal, you can continue to go about life normally too. Preventive screening says- prevention is the best cure, and that delaying timely diagnosis can affect your outcomes significantly. The main reasons you should go in or an annual check up even if you feel fine are-

• Check for any outliers and make changes in your lifestyle if needed. 
• Check if you are at high risk of developing any particular condition- due to exposure to agents in the environment or if you have high-risk genetic markers. . 
• For regular vaccinations
• To build a good rapport with a doctor who will help you not only during times of illness, but when you feel fine too. 

Tests in A Well-Woman Package-

Many hospitals and labs offer well-rounded diagnostic well-woman packages, which are designed to check for blood tests, Pap smears (to check for cervical cancer risk), HPV test and STI testing and requisite vaccinations, a mammogram (for assessing breast cancer risk), blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol levels and bone density tests once a year, or once every 2-3 years (if you fall in the low risk category). Other tests may be added as needed. 

Blood pressure screening and blood lipid profile testing is done to check for heart disease risk. Even if you have heart disease, or it is just the beginning, you won’t notice any definite symptoms, which is why preventive screening is essential in this case. 

Preventive Screening guidelines have been well established for women in different age groups-

• You should get your BP checked every 3 years at least, though an annual check up is the best practice. 
• A screening mammogram is a good idea after 35 years of age, if you carry high risk markers or just want to be proactive. But, doctors don’t recommend mammograms often. 
• A Pap smear needs to be done every 3 years (between 21-29 yrs of age), by itself. 
• You should consider getting a Pap smear and an HPV test once you hit 30. You should continue to get tested every 5 years, till you turn 65 (unless you are at risk or if your doctor asks you to get screened more often). 
• Blood tests for cholesterolemia and heart disease from 20 years of age (if you have a family history of heart disease). If you are in the low risk group, begin screening from age 40-45 and above, every year or every 3-5 years. 

What Vaccinations are Safe to Take for Me?

Women who are sexually active need to be careful about STI and HPV infections in particular. The vaccines you should get without any delay, if you have missed them include-

• TDap- Tetanus and Diphtheria vaccine (one during adolescence or after you are an adult) followed by a booster shot every 10 years. 
• HPV or Human Papilloma Virus vaccine if you have not been vaccinated for HPV before. 
• Hep-C screening should be done between 18-79 years of age and during every pregnancy, without fail. Hep-B vaccination can be availed. 
• HIV screening- once at least (between 15-65 years of age). No vaccine available. 

Conclusion– Preventive gynaecological screening is your best friend in getting top quality preventive care. So, if you have been searching for a “Lady Gynecologist Near Me” or a top “Women Clinic Nearby”, look no further, as Feminova Clinics is the best place to go to. We offer a full spectrum of gynaecological and obstetric services which have been designed to help a woman in any stage of her life. We offer cutting edge testing, diagnosis, effective treatments, counselling and our specialists will help you make changes to your lifestyle in the long term, as they don’t believe in short-term fixes. 

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