Health and Me

Itisha Arya

Three Health Checks Every Woman Should Do Each Month, According To Experts

health checks for women

A GP has advised women to make three simple health checks part of their monthly routine, saying the start of the month can act as a helpful prompt to stay consistent. The advice comes from Dr Carys Sonnenberg, an NHS women’s health GP and the founder of the Rowena Health Menopause Clinic. Speaking to her large audience on TikTok through her account @Rowenahealth_menopause, the doctor, author, and public speaker suggested setting aside the first day of every month for these routine checks. 

Even if the date has already passed this month, she noted it can still serve as a timely nudge for those who have not yet done them, and a useful habit to follow going forward.

<h2>Three Health Checks Doctor Recommends</h2>

In her video, Dr Carys explained to viewers: “It’s the first of the month, so it’s a really good day to do your chest check, to do your vulva check, and also to examine any moles that you have on your body, not forgetting your head.” She added that becoming familiar with your own body is key. “When you’re checking yourself, it really helps to understand what’s normal for you. I’m Dr Carys Sonnenberg.

“I’m a GP and a menopause specialist. There is some excellent guidance online that shows you how to check your chest properly, what changes to be mindful of, and which symptoms should be discussed with your GP.

<h2>How To Do Health Checks Properly</h2>

“For the rest of your body, you’ll need a mirror. You might also want someone to help check areas you cannot easily see, such as your back, in case there are skin moles that look different or have changed. Don’t forget to part your hair and look at your scalp as well, in case there’s anything unusual that needs attention. I hope that’s helpful.”

Health experts stress the importance of staying alert to changes in your breasts or chest that could signal a problem. Making monthly checks a habit is a simple way to stay aware, while also remembering that some changes can occur naturally, such as during different phases of your menstrual cycle.

Possible signs of breast cancer can include:

<ul><li>Skin changes like puckering or dimpling</li><li>An unusual lump or swelling in the armpit or near the collarbone</li><li>New lumps or areas of thickened tissue</li><li>Fluid leaking from the nipple</li><li>Crusting or a rash on or around the nipple</li><li>A nipple that turns inward or changes direction</li><li>A sudden change in breast size or shape</li><li>Ongoing, unexplained pain in the breast, chest, or armpit</li></ul>

Secondary symptoms may include trouble sleeping, feeling generally unwell or sick, a loss of appetite, unexpected weight loss, and ongoing tiredness or low energy. While these signs do not always point to breast cancer, doctors advise contacting your GP if you notice anything unusual. Always speak to your GP if you have concerns about your health.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

womens health checks

monthly self checks

breast self examination

chest check women

vulva self examination

mole check skin cancer

early health warning signs

important health checks for women

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A GP has advised women to make three simple health checks part of their monthly routine, saying the start of the month can act as a helpful prompt to stay consistent. The advice comes from Dr Carys Sonnenberg, an NHS women’s health GP and the founder of the Rowena Health Menopause Clinic. Speaking to her large audience on TikTok through her account @Rowenahealth_menopause, the doctor, author, and public speaker suggested setting aside the first day of every month for these routine checks. Even if the date has already passed this month, she noted it can still serve as a timely nudge for those who have not yet done them, and a useful habit to follow going forward.Three Health Checks Doctor RecommendsIn her video, Dr Carys explained to viewers: “It’s the first of the month, so it’s a really good day to do your chest check, to do your vulva check, and also to examine any moles that you have on your body, not forgetting your head.” She added that becoming familiar with your own body is key. “When you’re checking yourself, it really helps to understand what’s normal for you. I’m Dr Carys Sonnenberg.“I’m a GP and a menopause specialist. There is some excellent guidance online that shows you how to check your chest properly, what changes to be mindful of, and which symptoms should be discussed with your GP.How To Do Health Checks Properly“For the rest of your body, you’ll need a mirror. You might also want someone to help check areas you cannot easily see, such as your back, in case there are skin moles that look different or have changed. Don’t forget to part your hair and look at your scalp as well, in case there’s anything unusual that needs attention. I hope that’s helpful.”Breast Changes To Watch ForHealth experts stress the importance of staying alert to changes in your breasts or chest that could signal a problem. Making monthly checks a habit is a simple way to stay aware, while also remembering that some changes can occur naturally, such as during different phases of your menstrual cycle.Possible signs of breast cancer can include:Skin changes like puckering or dimplingAn unusual lump or swelling in the armpit or near the collarboneNew lumps or areas of thickened tissueFluid leaking from the nippleCrusting or a rash on or around the nippleA nipple that turns inward or changes directionA sudden change in breast size or shapeOngoing, unexplained pain in the breast, chest, or armpitSecondary symptoms may include trouble sleeping, feeling generally unwell or sick, a loss of appetite, unexpected weight loss, and ongoing tiredness or low energy. While these signs do not always point to breast cancer, doctors advise contacting your GP if you notice anything unusual. Always speak to your GP if you have concerns about your health.