Women’s health encompasses far more than reproductive health — it spans every stage of life, from adolescence through to menopause and beyond. A GP who specialises in women’s health can be a valuable long-term partner, helping you navigate everything from contraception and pregnancy planning to bone health and heart disease prevention. At Camberwell Health in Camberwell, women’s health is one of our core areas of focus.
Why Women’s Health Visits Matter
Many women only see their GP when something is wrong. But preventive care — attending regular health checks, staying up to date with screening, and having open conversations about your health — is one of the most powerful things you can do for your long-term wellbeing.
A women’s health check is an opportunity to raise concerns you may have been putting off, ask questions about symptoms you’ve normalised, and make sure your preventive care is on track.
Cervical Screening
The Cervical Screening Test (CST) is recommended for women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74. If you’ve had a normal result, the test is recommended every five years. The CST replaced the Pap smear in 2017 and tests for the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is the primary cause of cervical cancer.
If you haven’t had your cervical screening within the recommended timeframe, a women’s health appointment is a good time to get this done. Your GP can perform the test in-clinic or discuss what to expect if you’re nervous about it.
Breast Health
Breast awareness — knowing what is normal for your body and noticing any changes — is encouraged for all women. Women aged 50 to 74 are eligible for free mammograms through BreastScreen Australia every two years. If you’re in this age group, your GP can remind you to stay up to date or assist with referrals if you notice a change between screenings.
Women with a strong family history of breast cancer may be eligible for earlier or more frequent screening. Speak to your GP about your individual risk.
Contraception
There are many contraception options available, and the right choice depends on your individual health, lifestyle, and future plans. Your GP can discuss and prescribe:
- Combined oral contraceptive pill
- Progestogen-only pill
- Hormonal intrauterine device (IUD)
- Copper IUD
- Hormonal implant
- Vaginal ring
- Emergency contraception
At Camberwell Health, IUD insertions and removals and contraceptive implant insertions and removals are performed on-site. If you’re considering a longer-term contraception option, book an initial consultation to discuss which option suits you.
Perimenopause and Menopause
Perimenopause — the transition phase before menopause — can begin in the early to mid-40s and may last several years. Symptoms vary widely and can include irregular periods, hot flushes, sleep disturbance, mood changes, brain fog, and changes in libido. Many women dismiss these symptoms or are unaware that treatment options exist.
Your GP can discuss symptom management, including menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) where appropriate, lifestyle strategies, and bone health monitoring. This is an area where having an ongoing relationship with a GP who knows your history makes a real difference.
Bone Health and Osteoporosis
Women are at significantly higher risk of osteoporosis than men, particularly following menopause. Your GP can assess your bone health risk, arrange a bone density scan (DEXA) if indicated, and discuss calcium, vitamin D, and lifestyle factors that support bone strength.
Mental Health
Mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health challenges are common and very treatable. Women’s health appointments are a safe space to raise concerns about your emotional wellbeing. Your GP can provide a Mental Health Care Plan for eligible patients, giving you access to Medicare-rebated psychology sessions.
What to Ask at Your Next Women’s Health Appointment
When you come in, consider asking your GP about:
- Your cervical screening status
- Breast screening eligibility
- Your contraception options
- Any hormonal or cycle-related symptoms you’ve been experiencing
- Bone health and calcium intake
- Your mood and mental health
At Camberwell Health, our GPs take a warm, patient-centred approach to women’s health. We encourage you to book a dedicated women’s health appointment rather than trying to cover everything in a standard short consultation. Book online through HotDoc or call us on (03) 9882 0055.