Why We Should Make The Most of Women’s Health Check Ups | Hear Her Speak

Global Issues in Women's Health | Hear Her Speak 
(Published 19.12.2020 on the site Hear Her Speak // Health) 
(Published 21.03.2021 on the site Hear Her Speak // Womxn)
​It is vital that more information is available to women in terms of managing their physical health - according to the WHO, universally, reproductive health problems are responsible for a third of health issues in women age 15-44, and breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women. Attending routine women's health appointments can help combat both of these statistics.
There are many issues that affect women globally that need more discourse and discussion in order to gain momentum to find solutions. Many of those are also impacted by other wider problems such as a lack of research on women’s issues, lack of support for women at risk or in danger, and socio-economic conditions such as poverty.

What to Expect During a Well Woman Exam | LifeCircle 

(Written for ​https://lifecirclewhc.com/)
A well woman exam is an important medical appointment that should be routinely attended by those of the female sex. The examination helps to check for early signs of different issues or illnesses, and it as a safe place where you can seek advice and help for a variety of women’s issues.
You can also access additional healthcare checks. These may include STI tests and reproductive health checks, mammograms, breast examinations, and more. Advice varies on when you should start attending these exams, but you can start as soon as you start puberty and your periods.

5 Reasons You Should Visit an OBGYN | LifeCircle

(Written for ​https://lifecirclewhc.com/)
In order to look after your health, it is important to make visits to your OBGYN as regularly as you can and depending on your health and relationship status. There are clear benefits to OBGYN exams, which are not limited to sexual health. You can access your general gynecological checkups, access birth control methods. receive breast examinations and cancer screenings, check for thyroid malfunctioning and receive checks and advice for infertility. Overall, visiting your OBGYN will help you to identify any areas where you may need support or treatment, and you can receive guidance as to where to receive the necessary resources.

PODCAST: Women's Issues We Need to Talk About (15.12.2020)  

PODCAST: How To Spot Signs of Breast Cancer (15.12.2020)
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​WHAT IS AN OBGYN AND WHY YOU NEED ONE  

​What is an OB-GYN?
 
An OB-GYN (also known as an obstetrician-gynaecologist) is a doctor that specializes in women's health. They are trained specifically in areas of health that are exclusive for women, making them the best people to visit with women's health questions. An OB-GYN will be able to offer basic health services and checks, as well as routine medical services (such as breast examinations or STI screenings) in order to help you maintain the best health you can.
 
Why Do You Need an OB-GYN?
 
There are many reasons why you should visit your OB-GYN. They can provide services ranging from regular sexual health check-ups to cancer screenings, and will always make sure that you are comfortable with any procedures that you need to go through.
 
Your average OBG-YN appointment will usually include:
 
  • General health checks, including your vital signs, medication(s), and medical history
  • Questions surrounding menstruation, sex history, or any sex/fertility issues you may have encountered
  • STI testing
  • Physical examinations - depending on what (if any) symptoms you are displaying, your age, or your risk of certain conditions, you may have physical examinations. For example, they can carry out breast, abdominal, or pelvic examinations
 
Your OB-GYN appointment can also give you the opportunity to be provided with a safe space where you can discuss any issues that you are encountering in your living situation. For example, if you are experiencing domestic violence or abuse, manipulation, harassment, or emotional abuse, you will be able to speak privately with your OB-GYN and they can offer advice and help.
 
Overall, your OB-GYN is there to help you. If you engage with their services regularly, they can help you to preserve your health and manage any issues that arise, especially problems or conditions that are unique to women. Their specialist knowledge ensures that your needs are well looked after, and makes sure that you have a safe space to seek help if you need it.

​KEY SYMPTOMS OF BREAST CANCER YOU NEED TO KNOW

Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, making it vital to be aware of the key signs and symptoms so it can be identified and treated as quickly as possible. The people that are most at risk are those who live an unhealthy lifestyle, and those who are older, particularly those who have experienced menopause. Despite this, breast cancer can affect any woman. A diagnosis of breast cancer will have many different effects on your daily life, depending on the treatment that you need and the stage that your cancer is at. The following information distinguishes the two main types of breast cancer, outlines key signs and symptoms that you need to know, and gives step-by-step instructions on how to carry out a breast examination.


The 2 Main Types of Breast Cancer

Non-Invasive Breast Cancer

This type of breast cancer is found in the ducts of the breast rather than the breast tissue. This cancer is usually less common and is normally picked up during mammograms. It is rarely discovered through a lump in the breast, demonstrating the importance of mammograms - if you do not have regular screenings, this type of breast cancer may go unidentified.

Invasive Breast Cancer

Invasive breast cancer is more common than non-invasive. This is where the cancer cells have started to spread from the ducts of the breast through the lining into the breast tissue. This type of breast cancer is more likely to be identified through new and unexpected lumps in the breast, making it very important to regularly examine your breasts and seek the advice of a healthcare professional if you find a lump so potential breast cancer can be identified as quickly as possible.


5 Key Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

New Lumps in the Breast or Armpit

Despite being the most commonly experienced sign of breast cancer, most lumps found in the breast are cysts or fibroadenoma, which are benign (non-cancerous). However, this in no way means that lumps in the breast should not be investigated immediately after being identified.

Breast exams are the easiest way of locating lumps and bumps. If you are at a high risk of breast cancer you should attend regular annual mammograms and physical examinations carried out by a doctor - the faster breast cancer is identified, the better chance you have of beating it. If you are not classified as being at high risk, you should still carry out regular self-exams. Self-administered breast exams should ideally be a part of a regular routine or carried out at least on a monthly basis. They are simple and easy to carry out.

Self-examinations are explained at the end of the article.

Changes in the Shape or Size of the Breast

Another key symptom to be aware of is a change in the shape or size of the breast. Get to know the shape, the size, and the feel of your breasts when they are healthy so it is easier for you to notice any abnormalities. The most common change is the breast appearing larger or generally misshapen. These differences should be noticeable when carrying out the visual examination stage of breast self-examination.

Skin Changes or Rashes Around the Breast

The most important types of skin changes to note when looking out for signs and symptoms of breast cancer are dimpling, puckering, rashes, or redness. These are usually found around the nipple area. You can also experience changes in the texture of the skin around the nipple - this should be easily identified in a breast examination. These changes in the skin are often described as looking similar to orange peel.

Fluid Leaks or Discharge from the Breast Without Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

If you are not pregnant or breastfeeding, discharge or leaking fluid from the breast is not normal and could be a sign of breast cancer. However, there are other conditions that can also display this symptom. If you are experiencing any unexpected discharge, contact a health professional for advice, particularly if you are experiencing any other symptoms in this list.

Changes in the Nipple or Nipple Inversion

The two main ways in which the appearance of the nipple can change are inversion and differences in the texture of the nipple. If the nipple has turned inwards or started to sink into your breast, this is nipple inversion. Your nipple can also display signs of a rash, similar to the rashes that are often experienced on the skin of the breast. These rashes are often accompanied by general redness. If any of these changes are experienced, with or without other symptoms on this list, it is advised that you contact a healthcare professional for advice.

​
Easy Steps for a Self-Administered Breast Examination

Self-administered breast examinations are the best way to identify the symptoms of breast cancer. The best time to carry out a breast exam is approximately one week after your last period ended. If your periods are irregular, they should be carried out at the same time each month.


1 - Visual Examination - Take off your top and bra, and put your hands on your hips. Look for any redness, change in the nipples, or change in the shape or size of the breast. Remember to also check under your breasts and under your arms.


2 - Get into the Correct Position - Lie down and lift one of your arms above your head. Your other arm will be the one you carry out the examination with.


3 - Start the Physical Examination - Using the hand that is not above your head, feel around the breast on the side of the raised arm. Start under the armpit and feel around the tissue with your three middle fingers in a circular motion. Move across the breast until you have felt the entire surface area of the breast and underarm. Repeat this again with more force, and carry this out on both breasts


4 - Check the Nipples - Lightly but firmly squeeze the nipple, looking for any lumps or unexpected discharge.


5 - If You Notice Abnormalities, Contact A Doctor