Gynae Check-Ups

Regular gynaecological check-ups are an important part of lifelong women’s health. They allow early detection of medical conditions, provide guidance on contraception and fertility, and offer support through different life stages—from adolescence to menopause and beyond.

A routine visit with Dr Wong may include a detailed discussion about your health, screening tests, physical examination (if appropriate), laboratory investigations, counselling, and immunisations. The focus is not only on detecting disease but also on prevention, education, and personalised care.

Ages Under 25 Years

The early gynaecological visit focuses on education, reassurance, and establishing a trusted doctor–patient relationship.

• Health education: Understanding anatomy, normal puberty changes, menstrual cycles, body image, weight management, and emotional well-being.
• Menstrual review: Assessment of heavy periods, irregular cycles, painful periods, or symptoms suggestive of conditions such as PCOS.
• Sexual health discussion: Prevention of STIs, safe sexual practices, and contraceptive options.
• Screening tests: STI testing (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV, hepatitis B and C) only if risk factors are present.
• Pelvic examination: Not routinely required unless symptoms such as pain, abnormal bleeding, discharge, or infection are present.

The goal at this stage is to prevent, educate, and early identify concerns.

Ages 25 to 39 Years

This stage often includes reproductive planning, cervical screening, and breast awareness.

• Cervical screening (HPV test): From age 25, once becoming sexually active, every five years if results are normal and risk is low. This replaces the traditional Pap smear in many guidelines and detects high-risk HPV strains associated with cervical cancer.
• Self Collect HPV: Instead of having a pelvic examination for the cervical screening test, there is an option to collect the sample yourself with a cotton swab.
• Pelvic examination: If sexually active or if symptoms are present.
• STI testing: Based on risk factors.
• Preconception counselling: Including reproductive planning, fertility discussion, and genetic carrier screening if appropriate.
• Contraception review: Options including oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices, implants, or permanent methods.
• Vaccinations: Rubella, chickenpox, HPV (if incomplete)

Ages 40 to 64 Years

This period often includes perimenopause and menopause. Preventive screening becomes increasingly important.

• Cervical screening: HPV testing every five years if eligible.
• Mammography: Every 1–2 years from age 40–50 onward, depending on guidelines and risk profile.
• Pelvic examination: Including assessment for pelvic organ prolapse or urinary symptoms.
• Bone health assessment: Particularly if risk factors for osteoporosis exist.
• Menopause management: Discussion of hot flushes, mood changes, vaginal dryness, libido, sleep issues, and hormone therapy options if suitable.
• Lifestyle counselling: Heart health, weight management, and exercise to reduce long-term health risks.

This stage also includes discussion of ongoing contraception needs until menopause is confirmed.

Ages 65 Years and Older

Even after menopause, regular health checks remain important.

• Cervical screening: May stop after age 75 if adequate previous normal results are documented and no risk factors are present.
• Mammography: Every two years, depending on overall health and individual risk.
• Bone density scan: Particularly with a family history of osteoporosis or fracture risk.
• Colorectal screening: As recommended.
• Pelvic examination: Assessment for prolapse, vaginal atrophy, or urinary issues.
• Sexual health discussion: Vaginal dryness, discomfort, libido changes, and safe sexual practices remain relevant at any age.

Healthy ageing includes maintaining mobility, preventing fractures, and supporting overall well-being.

A Holistic Approach to Women’s Health

A gynaecological check-up is more than just a test. It is an opportunity to:

• Plan pregnancy or discuss fertility preservation
• Review contraception
• Manage menstrual or menopausal symptoms
• Discuss sexual wellbeing and relationship concerns
• Screen for cancers and chronic diseases
• Address emotional and mental health

If you experience symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, unusual discharge, breast changes, urinary leakage, or sexual discomfort, you should seek medical review regardless of your routine screening schedule.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Preventive care saves lives. Regular check-ups allow early diagnosis of cervical cancer, breast cancer, osteoporosis, thyroid disorders, and other common conditions affecting women.

Staying informed, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, keeping vaccinations up to date, and attending recommended screenings are the most effective ways to protect your long-term health.

If you have any concerns or questions about your examination, screening results, or symptoms, speak openly with Dr Wong. Clear communication ensures personalised, safe, and comprehensive care tailored to your life stage.