Women in their 30s are in the most critical stage of their lives medically. According to the Philippine Medical Test System, at this age, you would have a slower metabolism, a higher chance of cancer, and other disorders related to general reproductive health. Women now have access to tests during various life phases thanks to medical advancements.
Here are eight types of medical exams that every woman should get.
1. Pelvic Exam
A pelvic exam is a visual and physical examination of a woman’s reproductive organs performed by a physician. The doctor examines the vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes, vulva, ovaries, and uterus during the exam. A sample of cells may be obtained as part of a routine examination known as a Pap smear, or Pap test, to check for cervical cancer or cells that appear to be cancerous. The sample is immersed in a solution and transported to a lab for analysis. Tests for sexually transmitted infections may also be performed.
2. Clinical Breast Exam
During a clinical breast exam, your healthcare provider examines the appearance of your breasts. Your arms may be instructed to be raised above your head, hung by your sides, or pressed against your hips. These positions allow your doctor to check for changes in the size or shape of your breasts. Any rash, blemish, or other odd indications are checked on the skin that covers your breasts. Your nipples may be checked to see if fluid is expressed when lightly squeezed. A self-breast exam is one of the best ways to find out if there is a lump in your breast, but at this age, a complete doctor’s examination is important. Estrogen levels are higher in women who have never given birth so they have a higher chance of developing breast cancer. Ask your doctor how often you should have a mammogram.
3. Skin Cancer Test
Aside from cervical and breast cancer, women are also prone to developing skin cancer. Excessive sun exposure on a daily basis are the main causes of melanoma. Common signs of melanoma are the change in a former mole or the strange color that appears on the skin. If you have symptoms of melanoma, your doctor will need to perform a biopsy test on your skin sample to give a correct diagnosis.
4. Thyroid Test
If you are experiencing a sudden change in mood, sleep, cholesterol level, or unexplained weight gain, there may be a problem with your thyroid. A simple blood test will help to find out if your thyroid is overactive or underactive.
5. Iron Level
Iron is a very important mineral that helps in the production of healthy red blood cells. Iron-deficiency anemia is more common in pregnant women and expectant mothers. Eating foods rich in iron such as red meat, seafood, and green leafy vegetables is recommended for people with iron deficiency anemia. If you are experiencing shortness of breath and unexplained fatigue, a blood test will help to determine your iron level. Consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements.
6. Eye Exam
Using laptops and gadgets has a detrimental effect on your eyesight. It is important to have a definite diagnosis from an ophthalmologist to identify other matters that need to be addressed. Do not go to the doctor when your eyes are tired due to lack of sleep, tired at work, or if there is jetlag because it may affect the diagnosis.
7. Diabetes Screening
Make it a habit to undergo diabetes screening to monitor your cholesterol and blood sugar level. When your body is getting older, your metabolism may slow down as well. Exercise regularly and stop vices to maintain a healthier life.
8. STI/HIV Test
If you’re sexually active, especially with several partners, it is recommended to use protection and get tested several times. This is significant because a person can be infected with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and be unaware of it. There aren’t always any warning indications or symptoms. Many specialists use the term sexually transmitted infections (STIs) because an infection can exist without causing disease signs. What kind of STI tests do you require, though? How frequently should you get screened? The answers depend on your age, your sexual behaviors and other risk factors. There’s no shame in being positive for STI, so if you see anything weird in your genitals, seek care at the nearest clinic immediately.
Having these tests may be a long list but prevention is always better than cure. As a start, schedule a consultation with your physician to know when the necessary tests are needed for you and to secure the perfect time when to have it done. Medgate is here with you to give you the care that comforts.
Reference:
https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/pelvic-examination
https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/clinical-breast-exam
https://www.health.com/condition/hepatitis-c/medical-tests-women
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007462.htm
https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19913005/medical-tests-30s/