Testing Times Ahead
Posted on November 28, 2008, under Health.
There’s something that all of us equally hate doing-taking tests.But some tests(the medical variety) are not that difficult and indeed, can go a long way in ensuring your good health.It’s all about staying alert and nipping the problem in the bud.Being a woman, it’s more important to stay watchful for there are a lot of health problems that may crop up especially after puberty hits home.And the only way to stop them is by being alert.Here’s a list of all tests a woman must go in for and why:
PAP SMEAR
What: A simple, easy and quick test, it’s also known as Pap test, cervical smear or smear test and helps detect cervical cancer.It tests a swab of cells from your cervix (the end of the uterus that extends into the vagina).
When and How Often: Get it done every year within 3 years of onset of sexual activity or age 21, whichever comes first!
BONE-MINERAL DENSITY TEST
What: It’s a test to findآ out if you are at risk for osteoporosis is quite common among women and causes substantial bone loss and also leads to fragile bones.
When and How Often: You must get it done three years after menopause, especially if you have a family history of osteoporosis.And depending upon your report and doctor’s suggestion, you should repeat the test.Studies suggest women can lose up to 30 per cent of their bone mass in the five to seven years following menopause.
MAMMOGRAM
What: A mammogram aids in the early detection of breast diseases in women.Extremely accurate, it’s an X-ray photograph of the breast.Studies suggest that mammograms lower the risk of women dying from breast cancer by 25-35 per cent.
When and How to Often: Those with a history of breast cancer should get the test done after the age of 35 every alternate year.Otherwise, you must go in for the test every alternate year after the age of 40.
STD TEST
What: Women who have multiple sex partners should go for Sexually Transmitted Disease(STD) test.The test examines the vaginal culture.
When: Look out for any abnormal vaginal discharge.
