Why All Women Should Have An Annual Physical Exam

Annual body checkups are essential for everyone. But they are more vital for women. There are many essential exams to a woman’s health. Annual wellness exams help you to stay up-to-date about your body and alerts you about risks. You can talk to a doctor and book an annual physical exam in West New York

Important health exams for women 

Mammogram

Mammograms are exams that determine whether you have breast cancer. The test is done by compressing the breasts between two radiographic breastplates to get x-ray images. 

Breast cancer is the most common among American women. It can occur at any age, but the risks get higher as you get older. Mammograms usually begin at the age of 40, and doctors suggest regular mammograms for all women above that age. 

Doctors suggest that women between the ages of 40-44 should get mammograms every two years, and women older than that should get one every year. However, if you’re younger than 40 and wish to get breast cancer screening, you can certainly opt for that. 

Women who have a family medical history, genetic mutation, and other factors have higher chances of acquiring the disease and are suggested MRI along with mammograms. 

Blood Pressure

In women, hormonal changes due to menopause, pregnancy, and stress can increase the chances of hypertension which further leads to fatal heart diseases such as heart attack or stroke. The ideal blood pressure in the human body is suggested to be between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg. If your BP level is higher or lower than that, it is crucial to start taking steps. 

Pap Smear 

A PAP smear is an exam that is used to determine whether you have cervical cancer. In this test, a small brush or spatula is used to remove cells from your cervix. After that, they are checked under the microscope for cervical cancer or changes in cells that may lead to cervical cancer. 

A PAP smear test is recommended once in three years for all women starting at 21. However, if you’re younger than 21 and notice cysts, vaginal bleeding, and have a family history of cervical cancer, you are suggested to get tested more often to stay alert. 

Pelvic examination

The doctor visually examines your vagina, fallopian tubes, cervix, uterus, and ovaries during a pelvic examination. Doctors suggest a yearly pelvic exam for all women starting at age 21. However, you can take the tests more often and at a younger age depending on your medical history. 

These are the four tests that all women should take at least once a year or as doctors suggest. Other than that, it is essential to keep in touch with your doctor altogether. Annual wellness exams are a significant way of preventing diseases and staying healthy.