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Screening tests for women

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You have a vague idea of what you should be tested for and when, but if push comes to shove, your knowledge is a bit shaky. We give you the lowdown.

Teens and tests

If you become sexually active during your teens, you must have a pelvis exam and a Pap smear test done regularly. You also need to be tested for sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, Syphilis, Herpes simplex, Hepatitis B, Gonorrhoea or Chlamydia.

Other tests depend on your state of health and also on conditions prevalent in the family. If there are other family members with diabetes, for instance, it might be a good idea to be regularly screened for that.

By the time you are 18 years old, you should have had a blood pressure and diabetes test. A regular check-up with your GP is also advised and he/she will recommend screening tests that are deemed necessary.

Women between 20 and 40

Screening tests to be done during this time

table on screening for women

Women between 40 and 60

Screening tests to be done during this time

tablle of screening tests 40-60

Women aged 60+

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