October may be known for things that go bump in the night, but taking care of your health shouldn’t be scary. This month, Medical Center Hospital is encouraging women to make preventive care a priority and take an active role in protecting their health.
Preventive care can help you stay healthy and identify potential concerns before symptoms appear. The screenings and services you need will vary based on your age, personal and family health history, and individual risk factors. Your healthcare provider can help you determine what is right for you.
Unlike an appointment for an illness or injury, a preventive care visit focuses on your overall health and may include:
● Health screenings that can help identify certain diseases and conditions early.
● Vaccinations that help protect against preventable illnesses and diseases.
● Health education and counseling to help you make informed decisions about nutrition, exercise, medications and other aspects of your health.
● Routine exams and assessments based on your age, health history and risk factors.
Screenings Can Make a Difference
Medical Center Hospital offers access to a wide range of preventive and diagnostic services, including mammograms, colonoscopies, CT scans, bone density scans and other important screenings.
Keeping up with recommended screenings is important because some cancers and other health conditions can develop without noticeable symptoms. Finding a health concern earlier may provide more options for treatment and lead to better outcomes.
At MCH Women’s Clinic, our compassionate OB/GYNs care for women throughout every stage of life. Services range from routine wellness exams and counseling to pregnancy care, high-risk pregnancy management and minimally invasive surgery. To schedule an appointment with an MCH OB/GYN, call (432) 640-2491.
Don’t have a doctor? MCH can help with that, too. An MCH ProCare provider can help you understand which screenings and preventive services may be appropriate for you. Visit mchodessa.com and select Find a Provider to search by specialty, location and other preferences.
Women’s Preventive Care: What to Discuss and When
Preventive care isn't one-size-fits-all. Recommendations may vary, so talk with your healthcare provider about the schedule that's right for you.
Ages 11–12
The HPV vaccine is routinely recommended at ages 11–12 and can be started as early as age 9. The vaccine helps protect against HPV infections that can cause several types of cancer.
Ages 20–29
Make routine preventive healthcare visits part of your schedule. Beginning at age 21, talk with your provider about cervical cancer screening and how often you should be screened.
Ages 30–39
Continue recommended cervical cancer screenings and routine preventive visits. Your provider can help determine which cervical cancer screening method and schedule are appropriate for you.
Age 40
For women at average risk, breast cancer screening with mammography generally begins at age 40. Talk with your provider about how often you should be screened based on your individual risk factors and family history.
Age 45
Colorectal cancer screening is recommended beginning at age 45 for adults at average risk. Several screening options are available, including colonoscopy and certain stool-based tests. Your provider can help you choose the right option.
Age 65
Women 65 and older should talk with their healthcare provider about screening for osteoporosis with a bone density test. Depending on your previous cervical cancer screening results and risk factors, your provider can also help determine whether continued cervical cancer screening is recommended.
Age 75 and Beyond
Preventive care remains important. Decisions about continuing certain screenings, including mammograms and colorectal cancer screening, should be made with your healthcare provider based on your overall health, previous screening history and individual risk factors.
Make Your Health a Priority
You don't have to wait until something feels wrong to see your doctor. Preventive care gives you and your healthcare team an opportunity to look ahead, understand your risks and take steps to protect your health.
This October, put yourself on the calendar. Schedule your preventive care visit and talk with your healthcare provider about the screenings that are right for you.
