Reproductive health screenings accompany every stage of a woman’s journey—from the first changes that periods bring through menopause. Yet despite their importance, health checks can feel intimidating for many women due to their sensitive nature. At Cool Springs & Franklin Internal Medicine & Pediatrics, we strive to foster an environment of compassion and understanding that makes every patient feel cared for the way that they deserve. In this spirit, our specialists have put together a calendar of reproductive health screenings that helps every woman stay on top of their health.
Reproductive Health Screenings Save Lives
As part of the Healthy People 2030 goal, the NIH’s National Cancer Institute has released alarming statistics: only 75% of women aged 21-65 were up-to-date with their cervical cancer screenings. Not only does this mean that many cases fail to obtain a timely diagnosis, with potentially fatal consequences, but that 25% of women are not getting their yearly Pap tests, crucial for maintaining optimal reproductive health. Without regular tests, early signs of dangerous health conditions are harder to treat.
It is important to note that within reproductive health services, screenings are performed by professionals that offer more than mere data analysis—your specialist also offers professional advice on contraception, disease management, prevention, and counseling.
What Screenings Are There?
- Pap smear: Paps are performed to detect abnormal cells in your cervix before they become cancerous. Thanks to these exams, providers can detect HPV, one of the leading causes of cervical cancer, along with other cervical issues.
- Breast exam: During these, the provider feels the breasts and underarms looking for abnormal growths.
- Transvaginal ultrasound: A TV ultrasound provides a more detailed view of your pelvic organs. It is usually ordered to explore the reason behind certain symptoms or diagnose a condition. It is relatively quick and painless, albeit a bit uncomfortable.
- Mammogram: An X-ray image of your breasts, it is also ordered to perform a breast cancer screening or further analysis of symptoms or unusual findings on another imaging test.
- Blood tests / STI screenings: Lab tests help detect STIs like syphilis, HIV, and others that don’t present obvious signs. Apart from that, providers also order lab work to assess hormone levels.
☝ Read more: 4 Benefits of Preventative Care in Brentwood TN
When to Get Each?
Below you’ll find a practical and comprehensive list of the reproductive health screenings, put together to follow the guidelines recommended by the Health Resources and Services Administration and the team of expert reproductive health providers in Brentwood, Tennessee at Cool Springs & North Franklin Internal Medicine & Pediatrics.
Age |
Exam |
| 13 – 15 |
|
| 16 – 20 |
|
| 21 – 39 |
|
| 40 – 65 |
|
Throughout a woman’s life, there may be more instances in which a doctor might recommend additional tests, which include:
- Genetic testing (during pregnancy)
- Colonoscopy (for women over 65)
- Breast sonogram
The Importance of Annual Reproductive Health Checks
Even in years without scheduled screenings, annual well-woman exams are important for:
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Weight and BMI assessment
- Discussion of any new symptoms or concerns
- Medication reviews
- Mental health screening
- Lifestyle and wellness counseling
- Contraception updates
Find the Best Reproductive Health Specialists in Brentwood, TN
At Cool Springs & North Franklin Internal Medicine & Pediatrics, our team of dedicated and compassionate providers offer personalized care for women of all ages. Walk-ins are welcome 24/7 without an appointment, although you may book one if that suits you better. We encourage every woman to reach out and start taking the reins of her health with preventive checkups at our comfortable offices in Brentwood, Tennessee and Franklin.
To book an appointment, click the button below or call (615) 376-8195 for our Brentwood, TN, office or (615) 435-3854 for our Franklin office.
