A well woman check ensures health status and enables the early diagnosis and treatment of many health conditions and diseases. Many women think that a health check is unnecessary until they feel unwell or are over the age of 50, but this is not entirely true. Keeping on top of your health can avoid poor health in the future and can help you to identify health conditions that you may be at higher risk of developing. Many people neglect a health check due to busy schedules, lack of knowledge or increased anxiety about the results. However, it is important to understand that a well woman check can help you to avoid life-threatening illnesses.
When Should You Visit A Doctor For A Well Woman Check?
There is no strict rule about when or how often to visit a doctor for a health check, and it may depend on your health status throughout the year. For those who are healthy, and feel no symptoms of illness, you may wish to schedule an appointment every 6 months.
Regular check-ups are helpful for screening purposes and can catch illnesses that may not be presenting themselves symptomatically. Females can be sensitive to infection due to less exposure to microbes and pollutants, which is why it is important to catch these infections in the early stages.
Signs To Seek Medical Assistance
Everyone aims to have good health for as long as possible, but unfortunately, women can be prone to a number of health issues that can cause long-term side effects such as infection and infertility. Here are some cases where you should immediately seek medical attention for the best treatment:
Breast Lump
Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. This condition can be life-threatening if left untreated, and those who have a family history of breast cancer may be more at risk of development. Women should always check their breasts regularly for any lumps, changes in appearance, and abnormal feelings. If you notice any changes to your breast, you should contact a GP who can give a professional examination and scan.
Menstrual Cycle Complications
It is common for the majority of women to experience some cramping and bloating when they are going through menstruation. However, unbearable pain, excessive bleeding, and irregularities are often diagnosed as endometriosis which is serious health condition that encourages tissue to grow in the ovaries and fallopian tubes, causing severe pain. This condition can affect fertility, and some women undergo surgery to lessen the symptoms and damage caused. If you find any changes in your menstrual cycle, or experience severe menstrual cramping, it is best to contact a GP for advice.
Pregnancy
If you find out that you are pregnant, it is vital to let your doctor know so that you can undergo scans and health checks to ensure yourself and the baby are safe. It is important to know which lifestyle changes to make when pregnant like giving up smoking, drinking, switching medications that may be harmful etc. A doctor can provide you with all of the information you need to ensure you have a safe and healthy pregnancy.
