There have been a lot of advances in Women`s health particulary in relation to breast and cervical screening programmes and most recently with the introduction of the HPV vaccine, however inequalities still exist and it is important that women do as much as they can to look after their health.
Breast awareness is the term given to encouraging people to get to know their own breasts and to be aware of what changes to look for. Breast Cancer is the leading cause of female cancer death in the UK, but did you know that on average 300 men each year are also diagnosed with the disease?
Encourage all women that you know to familiarise themselves with the 5 point Breast Awareness Plan.
1. Know what is normal for you.
2. Know what changes to look and feel for:
lumps
changes in size or shape
changes to the skin such as puckering or dimpling
changes to the appearance of the nipple or a discharge
changes in sensation that are different from menstrual tenderness
3. Look and feel on a regular basis - remember there is no right or wrong way to do this but make sure that you cover every part of the breast including up into the armpit.
4. Report any changes to your GP without delay. Most breast changes are harmless, however its important to have they checked out because early diagnosis of breast cancer increases your chances of survival.
5. Attend routine breast screening if you are aged 50 or over.
Cervical cancer can often be prevented if changes to the cervix are detected early. Cervical screening tests are carried out to check the health of the cervix and to spot any changes. These tests save thousands of lives each year within the UK.
It is important to have cervical screening tests regularly:
for women aged 25-49 every 3 years
for women aged 50+ every 5 years
It is particularly important for you to have regular cervical screening tests if you:
first had sex at an early age
smoke
do not use condoms
have had several sexual partners
Most changes are harmless and do not lead to cervical cancer. The biggest risk factor for cervical cancer is not having a cervical screening test as changes can occur without you being aware of them.
Pre-menstrual Syndrome(PMS) also known as pre-menstrual tension(PMT) can occur with the hormonal, physical and emotional changes that take place up to 2 weeks before the start of a period.
Symptoms of pre-menstural syndrome include:
mood swings, feeling emotional or irritable
headaches
food cravings
poor concentration
weight gain
feelings of bloatedness
changes to skin including oiliness and blemishes
These symptoms are usually relieved when the period starts, however there are things you can do to help reduce these symptoms:
be active on a regular basis
eat healthy foods and try to maintain a constant blood sugar level by eating regularly
learn to relax
If symptoms of pre-menstural syndrome are affecting your daily life seek advice from your GP
If you experience heavy periods don`t just suffer with them, contact your GP for information and possible treatment options.
The menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45-55. Your body is changing, levels of oestrogen and progesterone (hormones produced by the ovaries) drop significantly, periods become irergular and eventually stop.
Symptoms of the menopause can include:
irregular periods
hot flushes
night sweats
sleeplessness
feeling emotional or irritable
headaches
forgetfulness
vaginal dryness and reduced sex drive
There are things you can do to help reduce these symptoms:
be active on a regular basis
eat healthy foods and try to maintain a constant blood sugar level by eating regularly
learn to relax
stop smoking
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can help to ease uncomfortable symptoms, replacing the lost oestrogen and progesterone hormones helps to counteract the effects of the menopause. For more information and advice contact your GP.