Why Annual Checkups Still Matter
Annual checkups are just as important for older women as they are for younger women. Reasons why include:
1. Preventive Care
Doctors help monitor overall health and provide advice on nutrition, exercise and healthy habits like avoiding tobacco use. These conversations during an annual checkup can support physical and mental well-being.
2. Cancer Screenings
Annual visits include screenings to detect early signs of cancer. Early detection often leads to better outcomes. Women should know about the five main reproductive cancers:
- Cervical cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Uterine (endometrial) cancer
- Vaginal cancer
- Vulvar cancer
As women get older, screenings for breast cancer and bone health (osteoporosis) may become more important, depending on their personal health history.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends a Pap smear every three years until age 65. Some women may need to continue after age 65, depending on their health history.
3. Learning About Your Health
Your women’s health doctor can answer questions about sexual health, safe practices and how aging affects your body. These discussions can help you make informed decisions about your care.
4. Managing Perimenopause and Menopausal Symptoms
Symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep problems, vaginal dryness and urinary issues often begin during perimenopause and can continue into menopause. These changes are a normal part of aging, but they can be uncomfortable. Your doctor can help you manage them with treatment options such as lifestyle changes, hormone therapy or other medications.
Common Health Issues in Older Women
1. Bladder Infections and Leaking Urine
Bladder infections, known as UTIs, are more common in older women due to changes in the urinary tract and decreased estrogen. Symptoms include pain during urination, frequent urges to urinate and cloudy urine.
Leaking urine, or incontinence, can happen when the muscles in the pelvis become weaker. Several treatment options are available and may include medication, pelvic floor exercises or therapy.
2. Pelvic Pain or Pressure
Some senior women experience pelvic pain, which could be a sign of pelvic organ prolapse. This occurs when muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs become weak, causing organs to shift out of place. It can lead to problems with the bladder or bowels.
3. Vaginal Atrophy and Painful Intercourse
Lower estrogen can cause the vaginal area to become dry, thin or less stretchy. This condition is called vaginal atrophy and may lead to discomfort or pain during sex. Fortunately, treatments such as vaginal moisturizers, lubricants or estrogen creams can help ease these symptoms.
Take Control of Your Health
Women’s health doesn’t stop after childbearing years or once menstrual periods end. In fact, it becomes even more important in helping women manage new health needs. Whether you are sexually active or not, annual visits to your gynecologist or primary care doctor can help you stay ahead of any changes
Regular checkups offer the chance to discuss concerns, track symptoms and get advice on how to stay healthy as you age. With guidance from a healthcare professional who understands women’s health at every age, you can make informed choices.
To learn more, visit bronsonhealth.com/gynecology. To schedule an appointment, call one of the practices below.
