If you are a young woman, you should schedule a pelvic exam once a year. A Pap test is a medical test used to screen for cervical cancer. A pelvic exam lets your health care provider look at your vagina, cervix, and uterus for signs of infection and other conditions. This information can help your doctor detect a broader range of health conditions, including the onset of symptoms and signs of disease.
The National Institute of Health recommends that young adults schedule two physical exams a year during their 20s and 30s. Each doctor will perform different procedures during these exams, including vital signs, a history, and blood work. Your doctor may also ask about a wide range of other health concerns and perform different tests to ensure your overall health is at its optimum. Those who get annual checkups are more likely to stay healthy for a longer period of time.
Melanoma is the most common type of cancer in women. Fair-skinned women are at a higher risk than people with dark skin. Also, those with a history of sunburn and a close family member with melanoma are at higher risk of developing skin cancer. For this reason, it’s important to begin self-examination for melanoma early on and regularly visit a dermatologist. If a spot or mole changes, alert your doctor. If the spot is larger or more difficult to detect, make an appointment with a dermatologist.
