Women's health screening and preventive check-ups
Screening is for when you feel well. That is exactly what makes it easy to postpone — there is no symptom prompting you to book, and the appointment slides to next month, then next year.
A preventive consultation sets out which checks are genuinely worth doing at your age and stage, and how often. The aim is a short, sensible list rather than an expensive package of tests you do not need.
Good reasons to book a check-up
Having one of these does not necessarily mean something is wrong. It means the question is worth asking.
- You have never had a cervical screening test, or cannot remember the last one
- You have been advised a Pap smear and want to understand what it involves
- You have questions about HPV or the HPV vaccine
- You have noticed a lump, thickening or change in a breast
- There is a family history of breast, ovarian or cervical cancer
- You are approaching or past 40 and want to know what to check
- You are planning a pregnancy and want a check beforehand
- You simply want a general women's health review
How a consultation may help
- Deciding which screening tests apply to you, rather than a standard list for everyone
- Explaining what a Pap smear involves and what the result will and will not tell you
- Counselling on HPV, including vaccination where it is appropriate
- Discussing breast awareness and when imaging is worth arranging
- Reviewing blood pressure, weight, thyroid or blood sugar where your history suggests it
- Setting a simple schedule so future checks are not left to memory
What to expect at your visit
History and risk review
Personal and family history, cycles, contraception, previous screening and current concerns.
Examination as appropriate
Discussed with you first. Nothing is done without an explanation and your agreement.
A specific test list
Which tests, why each one, and where to have them done. Samples for cervical screening are arranged in advance.
Results, explained
A follow-up to go through results and agree when the next check is due.
Common questions
Answers here are general. Your own situation is what the consultation is for.
Does a Pap smear hurt?
Most women describe it as briefly uncomfortable rather than painful. It takes a few minutes. Telling the doctor if you feel anxious about it is genuinely useful, as the process can be adjusted.
How often should cervical screening be done?
The interval depends on your age, previous results and which test is used. It is set individually at the consultation rather than by a single blanket rule.
Is the HPV vaccine only for young girls?
It is most effective when given before exposure, which is why it is commonly recommended in adolescence, but it may still be considered for some adults. Suitability is discussed on an individual basis.
Are the tests done at the clinic?
The consultation, counselling and examination happen at the clinic. Laboratory testing and imaging are carried out at a diagnostic centre, and the reports are reviewed with you afterwards.
Discuss this with Dr. Disha Ghoniya
Send a request with your preferred day and a short line about what has been happening. The clinic will confirm a time that works.