In part 1, we presented a list of screenings and exams that are important to have to maintain good health. In parts 2 through 4, we discuss each screening in a little more detail, and why each is important.
| These recommendations are for healthy women without health risk factors or a family history of a particular disease. Your doctor might recommend a different schedule for you. |
Bone Mineral Density Test
Your doctor might order a bone mineral density (BMD) test. This will confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis, determine the rate of bone loss, or detect low bone mineral density before a fracture occurs.
Similar to an x-ray, BMD testing uses sound waves or small amounts of radiation to determine the density of your bones. Tests can take up to 5 minutes, but require no special preparation. In most cases, you don't have to undress. But if you wear clothing with a zipper next to your spine or pelvis, the technologist will ask you to change into a gown.
Breast Exam
Your doctor should perform a digital examination of your breasts and armpits at your annual exam. He or she will look for any changes in the color of your skin or irregularities in your nipples. The doctor will also feel for lumps and swollen lymph nodes. This examination by your doctor should be in addition to the monthly examination you perform on yourself.
Mammogram
Breast cancers take time to develop. When breast cancers are detected early, before they have spread to the lymph notes, the five-year survival rate is 97 percent. Before they are detectible by digital examination, breast cancers might be identified by a mammogram.
When you go in for your mammogram, do not wear deodorant, powder, or cream under your arms. It can interfere with the quality of your mammogram.
At your appointment, you will be given a gown and asked to undress above the waist. A specially trained technologist will position your breast on a plastic table-like surface. Your breast will be compressed to spread the tissue. The technologist cannot get an accurate reading without adequately compressing your breast tissue. The technologist will quickly x-ray your breast tissue from at least two views. He or she will then repeat the procedure on your other breast.
You can expect the procedure to take about 20 minutes, but your breasts will be compressed for just a few seconds. You might feel some discomfort. To help lessen the discomfort, schedule your mammogram for two weeks after the start of your period. Your breasts are least tender then. If your breasts are sensitive, consider taking a pain reliever an hour or two before having your mammogram.
Click here to complete a Breast Cancer Risk Questionnaire, from the Washington University School of Medicine.
Pap Smear and Pelvic Exam
During a gynecological exam, your doctor will feel your uterus, vagina, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and bladder – from the outside of your body, and rectum from the inside. He or she will be looking for any abnormality in their shape or size. You'll also be asked to lie on your back with your knees bent and feet apart. Your doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina to widen it, and visually inspect your vagina and cervix.
To check for infection, precancerous cells, or cancer of your cervix and vagina, your doctor will perform a Pap smear. This is a procedure where some of the cells from your cervix and vagina are removed with a small wooden scraper, brush, or cotton swab. The "smear" is sent to a laboratory for testing.
Your doctor will get the cleanest, clearest cell sample if you schedule your Pap smear for the middle of your menstrual cycle. Then, during the two days prior to your examination, avoid anything that might cause inflammation of your cervix. This means no sprays or douching, no baths, and no swimming. Showers are okay. Do not have sex within 24 hours of the exam. Avoid vaginal medications, unless directed by your doctor.
Ten percent of cervical cancers occur in the back of your cervical canal, so ask your doctor to take a sampling of cells from there, as well as from the cervical opening.
New Pap Test Guidelines
Click here to complete a Cervical Cancer Risk Questionnaire, from the Washington University School of Medicine.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Tests and examinations are available for diseases spread by sexual contact. These include chlamydia, HIV, gonorrhea, hepatitis C, and genital herpes. If you feel you might be at risk, talk with you doctor.
Self-examination of Breast
Women should begin performing breast self-examination at age 20. Examine yourself the same time each month, for example 10 days after the start of your period. By doing a monthly exam, you will familiarize yourself with how your breasts normally look and feel. This will help you be able to detect any change. If you detect any changes, contact your physician.
Self-examination of Skin
At the same time you examine your breasts, check the skin all over your body for any changes. Look especially for changes in the size, shape, or color of any moles. If you detect any changes, contact your physician.
Self-examination of Vulva
Cancer of the vulva is increasing. It's seen more in younger women, but it can happen at any age. Infectious diseases such as genital warts and herpes are also increasing.
When they are detected in their early stages, infections and precancerous growths are most easily treated. If you are 18 years old or older, or are sexually active even if you're younger than age 18, perform a self-examination of the vulva once a month or any time you have symptoms. A vulvar exam is best performed between your periods. |
