Taking proactive steps to prioritise health and wellbeing is essential for every woman. From preventative screenings to routine check-ups, staying on top of health checks can help detect potential issues early so that prompt action can be taken.

From reproductive health to heart health and beyond, these screenings and examinations play a crucial role in maintaining optimal health and preventing disease. Whether you're in your twenties or in your later years, taking charge of your health through regular check-ups is key to living a vibrant and fulfilling life.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the essential health checks that every woman should consider incorporating into her healthcare routine.

Why are health checks for women important?

Ensuring regular health check-ups is crucial for adults of all genders. However, due to biological differences, women encounter distinct health risks and conditions compared to men. Women's health assessments are tailored to address these unique concerns more prevalent among women.

By focusing on identifying and managing the most common health issues affecting women, these assessments help to promote early detection, prevention, and treatment of female-specific health conditions. Through proactive health monitoring and targeted interventions, women can safeguard their wellbeing and enjoy a healthier life.

Annual women’s health assessments enable you to:

• **Monitor your health status: **Regular testing allows for tracking changes in your health over time, providing valuable insights into your overall wellbeing.

• **Detect any health conditions early: **Early identification of health issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or cancer can lead to better treatment outcomes and improved prognosis.

• Take control of your health: Undergoing women’s health assessments empowers you to take proactive steps toward managing your health and making informed decisions about your lifestyle and healthcare.

• Alleviate health concerns: Testing offers reassurance by either confirming good health or pinpointing areas that may require attention, alleviating anxiety and uncertainty.

Implement lifestyle changes for better health: Armed with information from health assessments, you can make targeted lifestyle modifications such as adopting a healthier diet, increasing physical activity, or managing stress to enhance your overall health and wellbeing.

Essential health checks for women

Blood pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, which is a leading cause of mortality among women. To mitigate this risk, regular blood pressure checks are crucial. Typically, blood pressure monitoring involves using a cuff around your arm to measure the force of blood through your vessels.

Blood pressure measures the force of blood against artery walls as it circulates through the body. While low blood pressure may cause dizziness, high blood pressure can lead to severe issues like heart attacks and strokes if left untreated. Regular blood pressure tests for women are crucial for detecting any abnormalities and addressing them promptly, potentially saving lives.

The NHS recommends that adults over 40 check their blood pressure at least once every 5 years. However, if you have risk factors for cardiovascular disease or a family history of heart issues, earlier and more frequent monitoring may be required.

Bowel cancer screening

Bowel cancer is the 4th most common cancer in the UK, but early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.

Bowel cancer screening for women primarily involves the use of a Faecal Immunochemical Test (qFIT) kit. This non invasive test allows patients to collect a small stool sample at home and send it to a laboratory for analysis. Results are typically received within a few weeks, enabling prompt follow-up action if necessary.

Regular bowel cancer risk checks not only aid in the early detection of cancer but also help identify precancerous polyps or abnormalities that may develop into cancer over time. The test detects the presence of blood in the stool. If blood is detected, further discussions will be held regarding the need for additional tests.

A positive result does not necessarily indicate bowel cancer, but it may warrant a colonoscopy to rule out this possibility. Only a small percentage of individuals will require further follow-up tests.

Breast screening

Regular breast cancer screening is widely recommended as an effective method for early detection, significantly improving treatment outcomes. Detecting breast cancer in its early stages increases the chances of successful treatment and survival. However, it's essential to recognise that breast screening may occasionally identify cancers that would not have caused symptoms or posed a significant threat to health.

Breast cancer begins when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a lump or tumour. If left untreated, cancerous cells can spread to other parts of the body, potentially becoming life-threatening. While the risk of breast cancer increases with age, it's important to note that most cases occur in women over the age of 50, even without a family history of the disease.

Breast screening typically involves a mammogram, an X-ray test used to detect signs of cancer in the breast tissue. Mammograms can identify cancers that are too small to be felt during a physical examination, offering a valuable tool for early detection.

While mammograms may cause discomfort or temporary pain for some women, any discomfort typically subsides quickly. In some cases, technical issues may arise, requiring additional mammograms to obtain clear and accurate results.

While breast screening provides significant benefits in detecting cancer early, It remains the most effective strategy for reducing the mortality rate associated with breast cancer.

Cervical screening

Cervical screening, as recommended by the NHS, is essential for women aged 25 to 64, with screening intervals varying based on age. Individuals between 25 and 49 years old are advised to undergo screening every three years, while those aged 50 to 64 should have screening every five years.

During cervical screening, healthcare professionals look for the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to abnormal cell changes on the cervix. If HPV is detected, a cytology test is performed to further examine for any abnormal cells.

In cases where no abnormal cells are identified, a follow-up screening should be scheduled after 12 months to determine if the immune system has successfully cleared the virus. It's important to note that most HPV infections are temporary, and mildly abnormal cells often resolve on their own as the virus clears from the body. However, persistent HPV infections can lead to the development of abnormal cells, which, if left untreated, may progress to cervical cancer over time.

If abnormal cells are detected during screening, the individual will be referred to undergo colposcopy, a procedure that provides a more detailed examination of the cervix to assess the extent of cell abnormalities and determine appropriate management or treatment options.

Cholesterol check

Cholesterol, a vital fatty substance, plays a crucial role in bodily functions. However, an excess buildup can pose health risks. Commonly categorised as HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein), cholesterol levels are monitored during a Cholesterol Test.

Elevated LDL cholesterol levels are concerning as they contribute to arterial plaque formation, increasing the risk of conditions like coronary heart disease. Elevated levels may necessitate lifestyle adjustments and treatment to mitigate health risks.

Diabetes screening

For women approaching the age of 45, undergoing diabetes screening is advisable, especially with predisposing factors such as a family history, high blood pressure, or obesity.

Early detection enables effective management and potential remission of diabetes through lifestyle changes and medications. By identifying diabetes early, individuals can reduce the risk of developing associated health complications.

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies

Vitamins and minerals play a vital role in supporting women's health, affecting various aspects such as reproductive health, bone density, and immune function. However, deficiencies in these nutrients can pose significant health risks for women.

During routine health assessments tailored for women, screening for vitamin and mineral deficiencies is essential to identify any potential inadequacies in nutrient intake. Common deficiencies in women include vitamin D, iron, calcium, and folate. Regular monitoring of vitamin and mineral levels can help prevent associated health complications and promote overall wellness.

Full body health checks for complete peace of mind

Our full body women's health checks are designed for busy women who want to take control of their health. Our tests are quick, accurate, convenient and completely stress-free. No waiting for an appointment, safe clinical procedures, no embarrassing questions, no long travel times and no busy waiting rooms.

Trained healthcare assessment specialists carry out all tests in over 350 venues across the UK and Ireland, so you get accurate professional health checks within 20 minutes of your home. Our private health checks include all the tests you need to take a proactive approach to monitoring and improving your health.

Many individual tests can be added to any full body health check. Just book one of our full body private health assessments and call us before your appointment to add an extra test.

How it works

1. Select and book your package

View our health test packages and book a full body private health check. All our individual tests can be added to any of our private health check packages. Just call our team on 0800 652 2183 before your appointment to add an extra test.

2. Make an appointment

Choose the venue, date and time that suits you. With over 2000 appointments available nationwide every week, you're sure to find a convenient time, date and venue.

3. Attend your appointment

A trained healthcare assessment specialist will carry out your assessment. The whole process only takes around 20 - 30 minutes.

4. Fast, accurate results

Your results will be available 24/7 through our online dashboard, My Wellness. You will receive an email notification as soon as your results are ready for viewing. Processing times vary by test, with some results accessible on the dashboard in as little as three days. The online dashboard also provides easy access to a downloadable PDF, making it simple to share your results with your GP.