Womens Health

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The best person to keep an eye on your health isn’t just your doctor. It’s you. Well Woman, cervical and breast cancer checks are crucial to ensure that your boobs and plumbing are in full working and healthy order. Here’s what you need to know about Breast Cancer, the most common form of cancer in women: almost 40,000 women are diagnosed each year. Fewer women are dying of the disease but cancer associations report a rise in the incidence of it. And 90% of lumps are found by the woman or their partners, which means that self-examinations tests are very important for breast health.


Equally important is your sexual health. Listen to what your body is telling you and report anything unusual to your doctor. The last thing in the world you want to be dealing with is a potentially contagious or dangerous sexually transmitted infection. Or worse, the initial signs of cervical cancer. *Shudder* Talk to your GP and see below to find out about doing your own Breast Self Exam and what Well Woman Checks entail. Breast Self-Check It’s never to early to do a breast self exam. Here’s how:

1. Raise your arms above your head, then place them at your hips with your elbows pointing out.

2. Look down at your breasts and turn from side to see them from every angle. Sexy mama! Obviously, it’s helpful if you do this in front of a mirror. Check for anything unusual in the skin, or any strange dimpling.

3. Lie down on a bed or the floor and raise one shoulder. Using your other hand, press down on you breast with the flat part of your fingers (not the tips) and move your hand in a circular motion. Start with the nipple and move outwards to under your arm pit. Be gentle, but firm. And maybe even get a significant other to joyfully lend a hand.

4. Repeat the check on your other breast. If you feel anything unusual, such as a little lump, bump or ripple that you haven’t noticed before, contact your doctor right away.
Do not panic or feel embarrassed if you do find something. Early detection is crucial to successful treatment. Just because you have found a lump it doesn’t mean it’s cancerous; often lumps are harmless and related to changes in hormones. In fact, Breast Cancer Care reports that nine out of 10 lumps are actually not a sign of cancer. But don't risk it; make an appointment to see your doctor right away. And for support, medical information, information and self-help groups, visit Breast Cancer Care or call their helpline at 0808 800 6000. Well Woman Checks
Pelvic exams are performed by NHS doctors every three years. But we all know that it pays to catch anything early, so if you’re concerned about sexual health, shell out the money to visit a Well Woman Clinic. A pelvic exam will be carried out and a cervical smear using a brush and small flat wooden spatula—no, not a kitchen utensil—will be performed.
A urine sample will be taken, and you will also receive breast examination tuition, contraceptive advice and have any of your questions answered.
Well Woman screenings at Marie Stopes International UK, for example, cost abut £75 and are designed to detect the early stages of cervical cancer, breast disease and other pelvic disorders. The checks will include an assessment of your medical history, your weight and blood pressure. You can also have cervical, Chlamydia and HPV tests done separately if you wish. For local clinics, check with your GP and click here for a list of Marie Stopes Well Woman clinics.