Westridge Medical
COVID-19

Shop 15, Westridge Shopping Centre, 300 West Street

Kearneys Spring, Toowoomba, 4350, QLD

07 4636 6884

Call to book an appointment

BOOK NOW
Westridge Medical
COVID-19
BOOK NOW

Shop 15, Westridge Shopping Centre, 300 West Street

Kearneys Spring, Toowoomba, 4350, QLD

07 4636 6884

HAVE YOU HAD YOUR GENERAL HEALTH CHECK?

MAKE IT A REGULAR ROUTINE

WOMEN'S HEALTH CHECK UPS

The type and frequency of health checks appropriate for you will depend on factors such as your age, medical history, family history, lifestyle and individual risk factors. A GP can discuss which examinations, screening tests or preventive healthcare measures may be suitable for you. 

Book an appointment with a GP at Westridge Medical for a Women’s Health Check Up.

SELF HEALTH CHECKS FOR WOMEN

Self-checking should be part of your regular routine. Things you can check at home include:

  • Skin – monitor freckles, moles and skin blemishes for changes in size, shape or colour or anything unusual such as pain or itch. See your doctor if you notice anything unusual.
  • Dental Care – reduce the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss by cleaning your teeth regularly, drink fluoridated water, eat a low-sugar diet, and visit the dentist at least once a year.
  • Diet – eat a variety of nutritious healthy foods, have regular meals and a healthy eating plan
  • Weight – maintaining a healthy weight can prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes and arthritis
  • Alcohol – Australian guidelines recommend that healthy adults drink no more than 10 standard drinks per week and no more than four standard drinks on any one day. Not drinking alcohol is the safest option during pregnancy or when planning a pregnancy.
  • Smoking – increases your risk of many diseases including heart disease, stroke, lung disease and osteoporosis (loss of bone strength).
  • Physical activity – regular physical activity can support physical and emotional health. The type and amount appropriate for you will depend on your health and individual circumstances.
  • Mental and Emotional Health – if you are experiencing symptoms such as intense sadness, irritability, fatigue, anxiety, or have had changes to your eating or sleeping habits, see your doctor to discuss these symptoms.

Partner violence is one of the biggest impacts on women’s health. If you are experiencing family violence and need someone to talk to, please call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).

CERVICAL, STI, PREGANCY CHECKS

Your GP can run the following Health checks:

  • Cervical screening – routine cervical screening is generally recommended every five years for eligible people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 who have ever had sexual contact. Some people may need different follow-up depending on their medical history or previous results. Your GP can confirm when your next Cervical Screening Test is due.
  • STI screening – if you are under 30 years of age and sexually active, have a urine test for chlamydia every year, as chlamydia can affect your fertility and often has no symptoms. If you have sex with one or more new partners without a condom, it is recommended that you talk to your doctor about checking for other sexually transmissible infections.
  • Pregnancy check-up – have a general check-up before planning a pregnancy to discuss any pregnancy health risks. Once you are pregnant, regular antenatal checks help monitor your baby’s development, pick up abnormalities and assess your health. Tests include ultrasound scans, urine tests and blood tests.

HEART, DIABETES, EYE TESTS

The checks appropriate for heart health, diabetes and eye health depend on your age, symptoms, medical history and individual risk factors. Your GP or optometrist can advise which tests are appropriate and how frequently they should be performed.

BREAST CANCER CHECKS

If you notice a new or unusual breast change, arrange a medical assessment promptly.

Women aged between 50 and 74 years who have no personal or family history of breast cancer are recommended to have a screening mammogram (breast X-ray) every two years. 

If you have a personal or family history of breast cancer, your doctor can help you to decide how often you need to be screened.

BOWEL CANCER SCREENING

Eligible people aged 45 to 74 can access a free bowel cancer screening test every two years through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. People aged 45 to 49 can request their first kit, while people aged 50 to 74 are generally sent a kit in the mail.

Screening is intended for people without symptoms. If you have symptoms, a family history of bowel cancer or other risk factors, speak with your GP about the investigations appropriate for you.

BONE DENSITY CHECKS FOR WOMEN

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become brittle. This happens when they lose minerals (such as calcium) more quickly than the body can replace them. Bones become less dense, lose strength and break more easily. A bone density test (DEXA) helps to determine the health of your bones.

Bone density testing is most often used when people have:

  • Osteoporosis or concerns about osteoporosis (such as family history)
  • Risk factors for osteoporosis – including a thin build, early menopause, long times with no periods when younger, age over 70 years, long-term use of cortisone medication
  • Spinal Deformity with stooped posture
  • Previous Fracture, caused by a minor trauma such as a fall from a standing height. 

IMMUNISATIONS FOR WOMEN

Vaccination recommendations depend on factors including age, pregnancy, medical conditions, occupation, travel and previous vaccination history. A GP can review your immunisation history and advise which vaccines are recommended for you.

Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone aged six months and over. Influenza vaccination is also recommended during every pregnancy and can be given at any stage of pregnancy.