Women’s health screening.
Regular health screenings play a vital role in maintaining women's health and well-being. From detecting early signs of disease to preventing serious health issues, screenings are an essential aspect of proactive and preventative healthcare. In this post, we'll explore the importance of regular health screenings for women, including the cervical screening test (formerly known as the Pap smear) and breast screening.
What is the Cervical Screening Test?
The cervical screening test (CST) is a screening test used to detect abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix, which can indicate the presence of cervical cancer or pre-cancerous conditions. It replaced the Pap smear in Australia in 2017 and is now a test aimed at detecting the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the primary cause of cervical cancer.
Who Should Have the Cervical Screening Test?
The Australian guidelines recommend that women aged 25 to 74 years who have ever been sexually active should have a cervical screening test every five years, regardless of their sexual history or HPV vaccination status. Regular screening is essential, even if you have received the HPV vaccine, as it does not protect against all HPV types that can cause cervical cancer.
How is the Cervical Screening Test Performed?
During the cervical screening test, a healthcare provider will use a device called a speculum which is gently inserted into the vagina and allows visualisation of the cervix. A sample of the cells from the surface of the cervix is then collected using a small brush. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, although some women may experience minor discomfort or spotting afterward.
New Guidelines for Self-Collection:
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to improve access to cervical screening, Australia has introduced new guidelines allowing eligible women to perform self-collected vaginal samples for the CST. Self-collection kits are available from healthcare providers and the sample can be collected in the privacy of your own home. Self-collection is particularly beneficial for women who may face barriers to accessing traditional cervical screening services, such as geographic isolation or cultural reasons. If your sample returns a negative result for HPV you can retest in 5 years. However if the self-collect sample returns postive then you will need to see your healtcare provider for a speculum examination and swab sample of cervical cells.
Breast Screening
What is Breast Screening?
Breast screening, commonly known as a mammogram, is a type of imaging test used to detect early breast cancer, before any symptoms are present. It involves taking X-ray images of the breast tissue to identify any abnormalities or signs of cancer.
Who Should Have Breast Screening?
Breast screening is recommended for women aged 50 to 74 years as part of the BreastScreen Australia program. Women in this age group are encouraged to have a mammogram every two years. Women outside of this age range may also be eligible for screening based on their individual risk factors and medical history.
What is a self-breast examination?
This is a practice whereby you feel your own breasts in an attempt to notice any new changes. Early detection matters. It is therefore recommended that women feel their own breasts for lumps once per month. You can do this using the pads of your middle three fingers to check the entire breast including out towards the armpit with light to firm pressure.
Why Are Regular Health Screenings Important?
Regular health screenings are crucial for detecting potential health problems in their early stages when they're most treatable. By undergoing screenings at recommended intervals, women can identify risk factors, receive timely interventions, and ultimately improve their chances of living long and healthy lives.
When you attend your GP appointment to access women’s health screening it is also an opportunity to discuss all aspects of your health.
Some common topics Dr Jess asks when you come in for your appointment include; menstrual cycle regularity, heavy menstrual bleeding, painful periods, bleeding between periods, change in vaginal discharge, sexual preferences, and exposures, need for sexual health screening, painful intercourse, libido, signs and symptoms of menopause. Presence of risk factors like smoking history, alcohol consumption, and other lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and weight changes.
Reasons to see your GP before routine screening is due
If you notice changes in your breasts including, lumps, skin changes in colour or texture, dimples, changes to your nipple, or nipple discharge
If you experience vaginal bleeding between your periods, after sexual intercourse or post-menopause.
If you notice a change in vaginal discharge including colour and or odour.
If you would like to discuss reducing your modifiable risk factors. For example, help with quitting smoking, alcohol cessation, improving your nutrition, weight loss and access to exercise prescription.
If you have any concerns about changes to your body please have the confidence to contact your healthcare provider. No question is insignificant!