Gurugram gynaecologist reveals women’s health screenings you should not delay

Wondering which health tests to prioritise? From routine check-ups to critical tests, here are some of the screening tests every woman should take.

Somewhere between managing home, work, and everyone else’s needs, women often learn to ignore their own. A missed check-up here, a postponed test there — it doesn’t feel urgent at the moment, until it is. The truth is, most serious health conditions don’t happen suddenly. They build quietly. And that’s exactly why regular screenings matter — they catch what you can’t see or feel yet. In a conversation with HT Lifestyle, Dr Pallavi Vasal, Clinical Director- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, shared about a few screening tests every woman should take.

These screening tests every women should take to avoid big health risks. (Unsplash)

1. Mammogram

Dr Pallavi Vasal highlighted the importance of breast health. She advises routine mammograms, especially after 40, can detect changes early, long before they become dangerous. It’s not just a test—it’s reassurance, or an early warning when it matters most. According to the National Library of Medicine, breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among Indian women, accounting for roughly 13.5%–28% of all female cancers, with over 192,000 new cases and nearly 98,337 deaths reported in 2022.

2. Cervical screening

Cervical screening is another simple but powerful step. Regular Pap smears and HPV tests have made cervical cancer one of the most preventable cancers today. Skipping them is an avoidable risk.

Routine mammograms, especially after 40, can detect changes early, long before they become dangerous. (Unsplash)

3. Heart health checkup

Then there’s heart health, often overlooked in women. Dr Pallavi mentioned that fatigue, mild breathlessness, or discomfort are easy to dismiss, but regular checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar can quietly safeguard your future.

4. Hormonal tests

Conditions like diabetes and thyroid imbalance don’t always announce themselves clearly. Subtle signs—low energy, weight fluctuations, irregular cycles—are often brushed aside as part of a busy life. They shouldn’t be.

Hormonal tests detect big issues like diabetes and thyroid before they become deadly. (Pexel)

5. Bone health checkup

Bone health often comes last. However, after 30 years, bone starts to release calcium, and it’s important to keep it in check. Dr Pallavi said, “As the years go by, bone health becomes equally important. A bone density test may seem unnecessary—until a small fall turns into something much bigger. Prevention here is far easier than recovery.”

6. Reproductive health checkup

Dr Pallavi highlighted that your reproductive health also deserves attention without hesitation or discomfort. Pain, irregularities, or concerns are not things to “adjust” to—they’re reasons to seek clarity. And in all of this, mental health cannot be an afterthought. Constant stress, anxiety, or exhaustion isn’t just part of life—it’s your mind asking for care.

7. Colon cancer check

Screenings like colon cancer checks, especially after 45, are equally important, even if they don’t feel immediately relevant. According to Dr Pallavi, at its core, this isn’t just about tests. It’s about not waiting for something to go wrong before you choose yourself.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.