Women's health is a fundamental pillar of women's overall well-being, encompassing physical, emotional, and social aspects. Proper care at every stage of life not only prevents disease but also promotes an optimal quality of life.
Why is female health and care important?
Comprehensive women's health care allows for the early detection of conditions such as cervical cancer, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and hormonal disorders. It also addresses essential aspects such as menstrual health, family planning, and menopause, ensuring women can make informed decisions about their well-being. Education and prevention are key tools for empowering women to manage their health.
At what age should a woman see a gynecologist?
The Institute of Statistics and Census highlights that between 2017 and 2023, 151% of births were to teenage mothers, representing 99 births per day.
Lack of access to contraceptives and inequality in the quality of care for adolescents are key factors in this problem, according to the WHO.
The WHO also highlights that adequate sexuality education contributes to more informed and healthy decisions, helping young people delay their sexual life and do so more safely.
Professionals for Women's Health recommends that adolescent girls visit a gynecologist between the ages of 13 and 15 to clarify any concerns about sexuality and establish a trusting relationship with the specialist.
How often should we have preventive checkups?
The frequency of gynecological checkups depends on age, medical history, and individual risk factors. According to the ABC Medical Center, checkups can be performed once a year.
Francisco Márquez Maraver, a gynecology specialist at Vithas Sevilla Hospital, points out that among the essential tests for the early detection of precancerous lesions in the cervix is the cytology test, also known as the Pap smear, which analyzes cervical cells to detect abnormalities.
Márquez recommends starting these tests three years after beginning sexual relations.
What do these preventive controls consist of?
The World Health Organization recommends, as a preventive measure, providing comprehensive sexuality education that includes topics on relationships, respect, consent, bodily autonomy, anatomy, puberty, menstruation, contraception, pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and HIV.
Myths and truths about gynecological health
- Myth: «Los tampones predisponen a contraer cáncer»
TRUE:
According to the Argentine Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, there is no scientific evidence to support a cancer risk associated with the use of vaginal tampons. It is essential to follow the instructions for use, such as changing them every 4 to 8 hours, as directed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- Myth: «Si no tengo pareja estable, no necesito hacerme el papanicolaou”.
TRUE:
According to the Pan American Health Organization, all sexually active women should have a checkup. Pap smear, regardless of marital status or relationship stability, since the human papillomavirus (HPV), the main cause of cervical cancer, can be present without symptoms.
In conclusion, women's health is an essential component of overall well-being. Education, prevention, and debunking misconceptions empower women to make informed and proactive decisions about their health.
Remember, maintaining an open and ongoing relationship with your gynecologist is essential to approaching each stage of life with confidence and security.
