Women are vulnerable to a number of health risks and reproductive issues so early detection and intervention are important. As the old saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Preventive care is necessary to keep women away from various conditions that can cause complications in pregnancy and put their lives at risk.
Access to preventive and wellness services allows women to gain more understanding and control over their bodies, which is central to empowerment. To keep your health in top condition, visit a gynecology specialist at authorized clinics in Singapore.
Health issues faced by women
Health conditions and reproductive issues that are common among women are the focus of preventive care. Gynecology clinic services look out for the following health issues and risks:
1. Sexual health – Women’s sexual health is concerned with birth control, which prevents unwanted pregnancies and other reproductive issues that cause infertility and complications in having a baby. Prevention and diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections are also part of sexual health.
2. Breast cancer – Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in Singapore. It is characterized by the growth of abnormal breast cells that turn into tumors that can be fatal.
3. Ovarian cancer – This type of cancer is mostly experienced in the post-menopausal stage or around 50 years old, but younger women can still have it so early detection is necessary.
4. Cervical cancer – Human papillomavirus, a sexually transmitted virus, is the cause of 99% of cervical cancer. The World Health Organization considers cervical cancer one of the most preventable and treatable types of cancer, so it’s great to discuss preventive care with your gynecologist.
5. Osteoporosis – Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men because hormonal changes during menopause weaken bone density so this condition is an important matter in preventive care.
6. Menopause and hormone therapy – Women’s hormones experience drastic changes in the menopausal stage and this affects their overall health so wellness services are a must.
Preventive services that you can expect
Checkups and preventive interventions can significantly reduce the risk of developing certain health conditions that are common among women. Preventive services include a list of treatments and procedures that you can discuss with trusted gynecology specialists in Singapore to maintain your health in its best state.
1. Sexual health services
Sexual health services include recommending and facilitating different methods of contraception to prevent unplanned pregnancies. Specialists also conduct procedures to detect sexually-transmitted infections and control their development. Therapy is also administered to resolve problems with sexual function.
2. Infertility services
In Singapore, 39% of couples having difficulty conceiving are due to female infertility. Infertility intervention includes blood tests, monitoring ovulation through various methods and other physical examinations. Aside from operations, counseling is also performed to discuss infertility or miscarriage.
3. Bladder care
Bladder care includes a range of services and procedures that prevent conditions that affect the urinary bladder, such as interstitial cystitis, urinary incontinence, bladder emptying disorder, and bladder prolapse. Data shows that around 15% of women in Singapore have stress urinary incontinence. Gynecology clinic services might help you with your bladder conditions.
4. Gynecology services
Gynecology specialists diagnose and treat diseases that affect the reproductive system. This is done through different procedures and tests, such as pap smears or pelvic examinations, to detect conditions like abnormal cervical cells, vaginal bleeding, vaginal infection, high-risk HPV, ovarian cysts, and more.
How often should you get preventive care?
The frequency of visiting a gynecology specialist depends on age and health condition. Typically, you can begin your regular consultation at around age 15, but if you’re experiencing unusual symptoms, you can always seek regular help right away.
For women aged 21–29, you should undergo a gynecological checkup at least once a year, whereas for those over 30 years old, you should do it once every two years. However, more frequent visits may be necessary if you suffer from a disease or are planning to get pregnant but having difficulties. Preventive gynecological tests become less necessary as you get older, but nothing stops you from getting gynecological clinic services in Singapore to ensure optimal health.
Preventive services to stay healthy
With or without symptoms, preventive care is important for women who are vulnerable to certain health risks. Regularly consult a specialist to stay on top of your health needs.