Women's Health: The Importance of Regular Screenings
Reviewed by the GP team at Griffin Medical Centre||5 min read
Key takeaways
- Cervical screening is recommended every five years for women aged 25 to 74.
- Free mammograms are recommended every two years from age 50 to 74.
- Bone density testing matters most after menopause.
- Screening is quick, confidential and usually bulk billed with a valid Medicare card.
Women's health screenings play a vital role in early detection and prevention of common conditions that can affect long-term wellbeing. Routine checks offer reassurance and the opportunity to act early, when intervention is most effective.
Key screenings every woman should consider
- Cervical Screening Test: recommended every five years for women aged 25 to 74. It detects human papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to cervical cancer
- Breast screening: mammograms are recommended every two years for women aged 50 to 74. Early detection of breast cancer significantly increases survival rates
- Bone density test: especially important post-menopause when the risk of osteoporosis increases. A DEXA scan can assess fracture risk and bone loss
- Blood pressure and cholesterol: monitor cardiovascular health, especially for women over 40 or with risk factors
- Diabetes screening: blood glucose tests are advised if you are overweight, have a family history of diabetes, or had gestational diabetes
- Skin checks: due to Australia's high UV exposure, regular skin checks are important for early detection of skin cancers
Our post on skin cancer prevention and early detection explains what to look for between professional checks. Screening schedules are also published by Cancer Australia.
Why screenings matter
Many health conditions develop silently without symptoms. Screenings help identify issues before they become serious or irreversible. Prevention and early detection lead to better outcomes and less invasive treatments. A cervical screening test takes only a few minutes, and self-collection is now an option for many women who prefer it.
Lifestyle considerations
Healthy diet and exercise
These support hormonal balance and reduce the risk of chronic disease across the lifespan.
Mental health monitoring
Anxiety, depression and hormonal changes can affect emotional wellbeing. Do not hesitate to speak with your GP, and see our guide to recognising and addressing anxiety for what support looks like.
Talk to a GP about this
Bulk billing for all patients with a valid Medicare card.
Sexual and reproductive health
Regular STI checks, contraception counselling and preconception advice are part of a comprehensive care plan.
When to see a doctor
If you notice changes in your menstrual cycle, unexplained pain, lumps or unusual discharge, do not delay seeking advice. Your GP can provide a full assessment and refer you for further testing if needed. Women's health consultations, including antenatal care, are listed on our services page, and female doctors are available.
Griffin Medical Centre offers confidential, compassionate care and encourages all women to prioritise regular check-ups as part of a proactive health strategy. Griffin Medical Centre cares for families across Griffin, Murrumba Downs, North Lakes, Mango Hill and Kallangur.
