A woman’s health evolves as she enters different stages in her life. From puberty in adolescence to reaching the post-menopause phase in their geriatric years, the changes that happen in women’s bodies not only manifests physically, but holistically. For this reason, women’s health screenings in Singapore (https://endofibroid.com.sg/service/womens-wellness-screening/) are highly encouraged so women can take charge of their health and live a long and healthy life. If you have no knowledge of what screenings are available, then this article will serve as your guide. Read on.
Women’s Health Screenings: What are they?
Health screenings for women consist of various tests and procedures that are done to assess the condition of certain parts of your body. These tools are essential to detect any onset of disorders or diseases, provide intervention at the right time, and be able to monitor and manage your health throughout your lifespan. It is important that you are aware of the screenings that you need at every point of your life.
Listed below are the different women’s health screenings in Singapore. These are categorised according to their purpose, when you should take them, and how often these screenings should be repeated.
Adolescence and Early Adulthood
Educating young girls about their holistic health is vital. By establishing foundations at an early age, they will grow up empowered and more mindful about making health-related decisions. Undergoing certain health screenings early on also helps prevent risks of developing disorders or diseases. These are the recommended health screenings for women between the age of 13 and 29:
● Breast Exams – By the age of 20, breast self-examinations should be done every month, preferably a couple of days following the last day of your menstruation. This practice trains you to be familiar with the anatomy of your breasts and be able to determine any abnormal changes. For women whose menstruation has already stopped, this self-exam should still be performed. Choose a day in a month and remind yourself to do a breast self-exam on this day.
● HPV Vaccination – One of the main causes of cancer in the cervix is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). This virus is very common and can be transmitted through sexual contact and also spread through skin-to-skin contact. Your body’s immune system can normally clear up HPVs without any medical intervention and without causing any health complications. However, there are instances when HPVs can remain dormant inside the body and cause diseases later in life. HPV vaccination, although not a test, is crucial for HPV prevention. The vaccine can be administered to pre-teens aged 11-12 and up to the age of 26. Depending on your age, HPV vaccines are given in a series of two or three doses. You will not need any booster after completing all of your vaccinations.
● Mental Health Screening – Anxiety, depression, and eating disorders are the common disorders affecting the lives of teens. A regular visit to your gynaecologist can help identify these problems and provide timely support.
● Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear – As soon as reaching the age of 21, book an appointment with your gynae to get a pelvic exam and Pap test. A Pap smear screens the cervix for any presence of abnormal cells that could turn cancerous. Pap tests should be done every three years if your findings are normal or more often otherwise.
● Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Screenings – Young women who are sexually active should undergo an STI screening every year until they reach the age of 25. These screenings check for signs of infections transmitted sexually, such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea. An HIV test is also recommended and its frequency will depend on your individual risk.
Early to Mid-Adulthood
Many health concerns arise during early to mid-adulthood. For women, this age range is between 30 and 49 years. Health screenings are crucial in order to detect possible conditions that can develop like breast cancer, cervical cancer, and other diseases that may exhibit any initial symptoms. The sooner that a health problem is spotted increases the chances of recovery of survival rates once prompt treatment is given.
● Cardiovascular Risk Screening – It is suggested that regular checks on blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels should be done as early as the age of 20. For women aged 30 to 49, frequent screening must be done, particularly for high risk individuals or those that have a family history of cardiovascular diseases.
● Mammograms – If your risk of developing cancer is high due to your family history, then you should start doing mammograms early on. For women whose risks are average, undergoing mammograms by 40 and doing it regularly every year is advised.
● Pap Smear and HPV Co-Testing – You should adjust the frequency of undergoing a combination of a Pap test and HPV test to every five years by the time you turn 30 years old.
● Skin Checks – The risk of developing skin cancer is high for women who frequently use tanning beds and those who often get sunburns. Along with women with fair skin, a trip to a dermatologist is recommended to check the skin for any signs of cancer.
● STI and HIV Screenings – Based on your lifestyle and risks, regular testing should be done periodically to ensure that you are free from these highly contagious diseases.
● Thyroid Function Tests – Thyroid problems are more prominent in women than men. While thyroid screenings are usually advised when there are symptoms, undergoing a thyroid function test is beneficial if you have a family history of thyroid disorders or if you have other conditions, such as unexplained weight loss, chronic fatigue, and irregular menstruation.
Midlife and Menopause
Women entering this lifestage increases their risk of developing certain diseases as their body undergoes various changes due to ageing. Health screenings can detect any onset of diseases, making early intervention and management possible.
● Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan) – Osteoporosis affects the bones, especially when you hit early menopause. A bone density test should be done by the age of 65 to ensure that your bones are healthy to keep your mobility and quality of life problem-free.
● Cardiovascular Screenings – These tests should remain constant as you get older. They are particularly important when you are in your post-menopause stage as this is the period where your hormones, specifically the estrogen, drops and increases your risk to develop heart diseases.
● Cognitive Function Tests – Undergoing cognitive tests in combination with mental health screenings helps in detecting conditions that may affect your memory or any issues troubling your mental health.
● Colon Cancer Screening – Colonoscopy is generally recommended for women aged 45. If the results are normal, then this test can be done every 10 years. Stool tests are advised to be done yearly. When necessary, other imaging tests may be suggested.
● Eye and Hearing Exams – The health of the eyes and ears begin to decline in midlife. Assessments for vision and hearing should be performed once you are in your 50s.
● Mammography – Mammograms should be continued throughout this lifestage.
Older Adulthood
Health screenings are still recommended when you reach the age and go beyond the age of 65. The frequency of the tests may vary depending on your age and needs as evaluated by your doctor. These screenings are still important:
● Bone Density testing
● Cervical Cancer Screening
● Cognitive Functional Screenings
● Colorectal Screening
● Mammography
In addition, an immunization review and vaccination against certain diseases is highly recommended for older adults as their health is fragile and they are highly vulnerable to contracting diseases like COVID-19, flu, pneumonia, and shingles.
Conclusion
Disease prevention is essential if you want to live your life to the fullest. By being aware and undergoing health screenings in the different stages of your life, you are increasing your chances of having a healthy body that can allow you to thrive and live a longer life.
