Women’s Health Week, 6 September to 10 September, is an opportunity to celebrate the health and wellbeing of all women and girls.
This year’s theme, ‘Women’s health. Powerful stuff.’, aims to empower women to make healthier choices, including maintaining routine health checks.
While the pandemic and consequent lockdowns have seen significant changes to our routines, it’s important we continue to have our regular health checks and receive the care we need.
Dr Jodi Keane is an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Monash Health, who works in the Women’s program. She highlighted the importance of women maintaining their health checks during the pandemic. This can include breast checks, cervical screening tests, or monitoring any changes to a women’s menstrual cycle.
Despite the challenges of the last 18 months, Dr Keane encourages women to not delay care if they need it.
“Please come forward, book in your tests and seek care. It is safe to come and see your caregiver – the way we see you may have changed, but please do not ignore routine screening or health problems. We’d like to help.”
Dr Keane has seen a decline in women’s appointments during lockdowns, which in some cases, has led to a delay in diagnosis. She understands women may have already missed screenings, be unsure if they are allowed to attend their appointments or have questions about what tests are due.
“Remember attending medical appointments is one of the five reasons to leave your house during lockdown so we encourage you to not cancel any future appointments. If you have any concerns or questions, please call your family doctor, who will be happy to help ensure your health checks are up to date.”
An increased focus on integrating telehealth into care delivery has improved access for all patients, including our more vulnerable community members.
For more information and to get involved in nationwide events for Women’s Health Week, founded by not-for-profit women’s health organisation, Jean Hailes, visit the Women’s Health Week website.
Approved by Karen Lowe.