Essential Screening Tests for Women – The Female Health Doctor

Regular screening tests are crucial for maintaining women’s health and detecting potential issues early. In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) provides guidelines on essential screening tests tailored to women of different ages.

Table of Contents

Limitations of screening

Before launching a health screening programme, the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) checks if it’s useful, safe, and worth it.

Here’s what they look for:

The Condition

It should be a serious or common health issue.
Doctors should understand how it develops.
Prevention should already be in place.

The Test

It must be simple, safe, and reliable.
Results should be clear, with follow-up plans.
People should feel comfortable taking it.

The Treatment

There should be effective treatments that work best when caught early.
Clear guidelines must exist on what to do next.

The Programme

It must reduce illness or deaths.
Benefits must outweigh any risks, like false results.
It should be affordable and well-managed.

By following these steps, the UK NSC ensures screening is helpful, fair, and well-planned before offering it to the public.

Unfortunately not all health conditions meet these criteria, so it is essential that you remain vigilant for common symptoms too.

Screening Tests

Here’s an overview of the key screening tests, when they should start, and how frequently they should be done:

Cervical Screening (Smear Test):

– Starting Age: Cervical screening typically begins at age 25 in the UK, regardless of whether you’ve started having sex or not.

– Frequency: Every 3 years for women aged 25 to 49. After that, it’s every 5 years until age 64.

– Purpose: Cervical screening checks for abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix, which could indicate early signs of cervical cancer. Detecting abnormalities early allows for timely treatment and reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Breast Screening (Mammogram):

– Starting Age: Breast screening is offered to women aged 50 to 71 in the UK. Women over 70 can self-refer for screening every 3 years.

– Frequency: Every 3 years for women aged 50 to 71.

– Purpose: Mammograms are used to detect breast cancer at an early stage when treatment is more effective. Regular screening can help identify changes in your breast tissue before symptoms even develop.

Bowel Cancer Screening:

– Starting Age: Bowel cancer screening in the UK begins at age 60.

– Frequency: Every 2 years for individuals aged 60 to 74.

– Purpose: Bowel cancer screening aims to detect signs of bowel cancer or pre-cancerous growths called polyps. Testing may involve a stool sample test (fecal occult blood test) or bowel scope screening.

Ovarian Cancer Screening:

– Starting Age: There is currently no national screening program for ovarian cancer in the UK.

– Recommendation: Women should be aware of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, such as persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating, and urinary symptoms (such as going to the toilet more often. If you are experiencing symptoms, you should consult a healthcare professional asap for testing.

STI Screening:

– Starting Age: Screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is recommended for sexually active women of any age.

– Frequency: Frequency may vary depending on sexual activity and risk factors. It’s advisable to discuss screening needs with a healthcare provider.

– Purpose: STI screening helps detect and treat infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV, which can have serious health consequences if left untreated.

Bone Density Testing (DEXA Scan):

– Starting Age: Bone density testing may be recommended for those with risk factors for osteoporosis.

Age & Gender – Women over 50, especially after menopause, are at higher risk.
Family History – If osteoporosis runs in your family, you may be more likely to develop it.
Low Body Weight – Being underweight or having a small frame can increase risk.
Diet & Nutrition – Low calcium and vitamin D intake can weaken bones.
Lifestyle Choices – Smoking, excessive alcohol, and lack of exercise can contribute.
Medical Conditions – Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, or hormone imbalances may increase risk.
Certain Medications – Long-term use of steroids or other medications can affect bone strength.

– Frequency: Frequency depends on individual risk factors and healthcare provider recommendations.

– Purpose: DEXA scans measure bone density and assess the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Women with low bone density may require interventions to prevent bone loss and fractures.

Final Thoughts

Regular health check-ups help keep women feeling their best! Screening tests can catch potential issues early, making them easier to manage. Following national guidelines and chatting with your doctor ensures you stay on top of your health. So, don’t skip those screening appointments— they’re there to help!

And if something feels off, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider. Your health matters! If you need our support, book an appointment asap to see one of our clinicians.

Until next time,

Dr Nikki