When was your last check-up, ladies? 

It only takes 30 minutes…..

This one goes out to all the laydeez….!

It’s Women’s Health Week 5 – 11 September so the perfect time to remind all the ladies to be proactive about our health.

It’s just too important not to.

We spoke to Dr Jo Tong at Walker Street General Practice about why and what we can be doing to prioritise our health. 

So, stop what you’re doing and spend just a few minutes to read on… it could be the most important thing you do today!

Here’s what she had to say.

1 // Seeing your doctor is an essential activity

“The pandemic has contributed to many people feeling as though she shouldn’t be doing what they think is non-essential activities, and putting a check-up with their doctor in that bucket,” says Jo.

“This can make health problems worse.”

Dr Tong and the team at Walker Street General Practice want to remind us all that we still need to have regular check-ups for any chronic health conditions such as diabetes or asthma. And preventative health checks, such as breast checks, cervical screening tests and bowel cancer screening tests.

“And definitely see your doctor if you have any symptoms that are out of the ordinary. Don’t put it off,” Jo says.

2 // Managing mental health

“The impact of COVID-19 on mental health  has been a major concern,” says Jo.

Understandably, a lot of people have been experiencing a high level of stress since COVID hit our shores and created such isolation and uncertainty for us all. 

“No matter how you may have been affected, it is important to talk to your doctor if you are feeling anxious or depressed, not sleeping well, or even “just not right”. There is help and plenty of support available.”

3 // Preventative health checks are super important

“Preventative health checks should not be missed,” says Jo.

Here’s a list of when and what tests you should have, ladies.
 

• Cervical training tests [previously known as pap smears] look for cervical cancer and are done every 5 years for women aged 25-74
• Screening mammograms should be done every 2 years for women aged 50-74
• Bowel cancer screening tests are also done every 2 years for women aged 50-74.

“If you have any unusual symptoms, such as a breast lump or abnormal bleeding or a change in bowel habits, then make an appointment to see us. We’ll need to investigate it further,” Jo says.

“And if there is a family history of cancer, the screening tests we just mentioned may need to be done more frequently or start at an earlier age,” Jo points out.

“Regular self-breast checks are also a good idea. If you are not sure how to do them, your doctor will be able to guide you on this. These tests give us the opportunity to prevent cancer or detect it at an early stage, which gives the best chance for a positive outcome, and are lifesaving.”

4 // A lot of the time it’s not ‘just you’

“A doctor’s appointment is an excellent opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your health that you have been putting off or have assumed ‘that’s just me’,” Jo says.

“Many women put up with their symptoms, which are often quite debilitating, for many years before speaking to a doctor.”

Problems with periods, such as irregular cycles, heavy bleeding or painful periods, often have underlying causes, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovarian syndrome [PCOS], which a medical professional can help treat or manage with you.

“Another example is feeling tired all the time,” Jo says.

“A lot of women brush it off because they have young children or are working long hours. Sometimes, this can be caused by vitamin deficiency, stress, or depression.”

Sounds familiar, right?

Okay, so what can we do??

It’s time to move our own health up the daily priority list, ladies!

“A good place to start is our Women’s Health Clinic at Walker Street General Practice,” Jo says.

“We undertake comprehensive health checks and cover a range of issues including periods, breast symptoms, contraception, sexual health, osteoporosis, heart health, bowel and bladder health and more.”

“Health checks are an essential part of disease prevention,” Jo points out.

“Not only do they help you stay healthy, they also improve your overall wellbeing.”

And if you’re feeling uncertain about being out and about while this pandemic swirls around us, be assured that GP clinics have implemented a range of infection control and COVID-safe measures for the safety of patients and staff, so it is safe to attend and see your doctor. In fact, it’s better for your health if you do!

So, pull out your diaries, girls….and schedule that check-up in.

Walker Street General Practice is a friendly and family-focused general practice located in Bowral. Their team of doctors have extensive medical experience and the passion to provide you with the best possible care. The Women’s Health Clinic is run by a team of talented female doctors and offers comprehensive health checks for women aged 25 and above. Click here for more information or to book an appointment online. Or give them a call on 02 4861 3855. 

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