Your October Women’s Health Check-In
October is a great time to pause and check in with your health.
While Breast Cancer Awareness Month places an important focus on breast health, it is also a good reminder that preventative healthcare extends well beyond breast screening.
Here are five areas of women’s health worth checking in on this October.
- Breast Health
Be familiar with what is normal for you and speak with your GP if you notice a new or unusual change, including a lump, change in breast shape or skin, nipple changes, unusual discharge or persistent pain.
If you are eligible for breast screening, make sure you are up to date. If you are unsure when you should be screened, your GP can discuss your individual circumstances and family history with you.
- Cervical Screening
Regular cervical screening is an important part of preventing cervical cancer. The National Cervical Screening Program helps detect HPV and cervical cell changes early.
If your cervical screening test is due, don’t put it off. Your GP can answer any questions you may have about the test and what to expect.
- Bowel Cancer Screening
Eligible Australians can access free bowel screening through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
If you receive a screening kit, completing and returning it is a simple step towards looking after your health. You should also speak with your GP if you experience changes such as blood in your bowel motions, persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss or ongoing abdominal discomfort.
- Your Mental Wellbeing
Your mental health is an important part of your overall health.
Stress, family responsibilities, work, sleep difficulties and major life changes can all affect how you feel. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, the postnatal period, perimenopause and menopause can also affect mood and wellbeing.
If you have noticed ongoing changes in your mood, anxiety, sleep, concentration or ability to cope, talking with your GP can be a helpful first step.
- Perimenopause & Menopause
Changes during perimenopause and menopause can affect much more than your periods.
Hot flushes, night sweats, sleep difficulties, mood changes, brain fog, changes in energy, libido and vaginal or urinary symptoms can all occur.
If symptoms are affecting your quality of life, you don’t simply have to put them down to ageing. Your GP can help you understand your symptoms and discuss appropriate options for your individual circumstances.
Make Time for Your Health
Preventative healthcare isn’t about waiting until something is wrong. It’s about knowing what screening you may be due for, recognising changes in your body and making time to look after yourself.
This October, ask yourself:
Am I up to date with my recommended health checks?
Have I noticed any changes that I’ve been meaning to discuss?
How have I been feeling physically and emotionally?
If there is something you’ve been putting off, October is a great time to make that appointment.
At Her Medical, we believe women’s healthcare should support you through every stage of life.
Your health deserves your attention, too.
