6 Medical Tests Every Woman Needs

Health probably is one such topic which is most talked about but given least priority, till the disease indicator strikes. The truth is most of these diseases can be kept at bay if we practice regular checkup. Studies suggest, women are really bad in maintaining their health. This need to change. For a woman to remain fit is not selfishness, but a step taken towards the wellbeing of the whole family.

Let’s have a look at all those tests which as a woman you must undergo

PAP Smear and Pelvic Examination

Once you cross 30, it is always advisable to visit gynecologist and get a pelvic examination and a Pap smear test done periodically. Finally who want Cervical cancer to create mayhem in your life. Also it is advisable you consider taking HPV vaccination against Cervical cancer as it is not only for young girls, but adults too; though its more effective for young girls.

Mammogram

With increase in Breast cancer incidence, it is advisable for every woman to undergo regularly breast cancer screening, especially if you are above 40. The best part is if this disease is detected at its beginning stage, its completely curable. All the more it is important to undergo this test, if any of your family member has the same.

Bone Mineral Density

Osteoporosis, a common degenerative condition of the bones affects around 80% of women and its chances increases with onset of  menopause. Drop in the levels of hormone estrogen which otherwise protect bones, is the reason for increase disease incidence post menopause. The best thing is to get the bone mineral density test done at regular intervals.  This test helps to estimate the density of your bones and your chance of breaking a bone. Most hospitals use a technology called DEXA (for dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) to determine BMD.

 Thyroid Test

Suffering from unexplained weight gain, hair loss, brittle nails, and exhaustion, check for Thyroid problems. Even if you do not have any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to do a regular check up once you cross 35. Thyroid hormone has a major role to play in regulating metabolism, hence when thyroid hormone levels fall, the body slows down. Thyroid test is a blood test and determines the level of TSH, T3 and T4 levels.  TSH is a hormone produced by pituitary and T3 and T4 by thyroid. The levels help to determine whether your thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism).

Metabolic disorders

Metabolic syndrome is  increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels bundled up. This increases your risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Get checked for these atleast once in a year once you cross 30.

Get your Genomepatri

Genomepatri is the best personal genomics test that’s available for people in India. Genomepatri assesses inherited and acquired genetic health risks for 100 odd conditions, grouped into 16 panels. This DNA level screening test will help you to determine your possibility to have a disease even before it shows upon at physiological levels.

“A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform.  ”  

Diane Mariechild