Health Mistakes Women Make

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Aug 25, 2001

When was the last time you or another woman you know had a thorough check-up? If you are like me, then you probably can't remember. Whatever reason you may have, you should at least know the mistakes you can make by not getting a complete check-up. Below are the doctor appointments you should definitely make and keep:

1. Family doctor visits -- you should see your family doctor every three years after you turn 20 years of age for a complete physical. Do make necessary appointments on a needed basis if the occasion arises. At your physical visits, your doctor will check your blood pressure and weight. Other body systems checked are heart, lungs, digestive organs, skin and joints.

2. OB/GYN visits -- you should visit your gynecologist once a year; this is not negotiable. All women need a routine pelvic and breast examination. If you have recurring urinary tract infections (UTI's), yeast infections or abnormal PAP smears, you will need to see your GYN more often.

3. Dermatologist visits -- depending on your medical history, you may never need to see a dermatologist, but if you have a family history of skin cancer or unusual moles or skin marking (above age 50), you should at least see a dermatologist to determine whether you're at risk or not.

4. Dental visits -- see your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. Unlike other medical conditions, mouth conditions rarely heal themselves. Gum diseases are virtually symptomless until they are in their final stages. Unchecked bacterial buildup can lead to periodontal diseases, which is associated with strokes or heart attacks. If you are pregnant, it can lead to preterm birth.

Now that you know what you should do to protect your health, here are a few tips for those waiting room blues:

1. Book early morning appointments or schedule one right after lunch. And never go on Mondays, if possible. Patients who have been sick over the weekend get first priority.

2. Check with the receptionist before your appointment to see if the doctor is running behind schedule.

3. If you are scheduled for tests, get all the information you can up front.
  a. Will you need to go to another location for your test?
  b. How many doctors will you need to see?
  c. How long will you have to wait for the test results?
  d. Will you need another appointment after the test to discuss results?

4. Write down all questions or things you wish to discuss at your appointment.

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