Mother’s Day Reminder: Five Doctor’s Appointments Every Mom Needs to Schedule
She’s the glue that holds the house together and puts everyone else before herself, she’s mom! When leading the charge for their kids in every phase of life, mothers often view their own health and well-being as low priority.
This Mother’s Day, remind the moms in your life to schedule these five important check-ups on an annual basis.
Primary Care
A primary care doctor visit once a year is important to complete an annual physical. This appointment can include blood work that tests for potential health concerns including thyroid issues and high cholesterol. It’s an easy way to stay on track with any new or pre-existing health concerns. Meeting with a primary care doctor opens the door to seeing specialists who can give mothers the multidisciplinary health care they deserve.
Gynecology
Visiting the gynecologist is necessary for every woman’s health. Mothers are familiar with this doctor before, during, and after pregnancy. Starting at age 21, the gynecologist will conduct a pelvic exam and a pap smear once a year. These appointments can also include tests for sexually transmitted diseases.
Eye Doctor
A visit with the eye doctor, or optometrist, at least once a year helps test for any signs or progression of eye disease. This is especially true for moms who use prescription glasses or contacts. Eye exams check for issues like glaucoma, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration, which affects the center of vision.
Mammogram
Breast cancer affects one out of every eight women in the United States. An annual mammogram, starting at age 40, is the most important tool to detect the disease. Women at higher risk due to family history or other factors should start earlier. A mammogram tests the breast tissue for any lumps, cysts, skin changes, or nipple discharge that show early signs or detection of breast cancer. Checking once a year can help prevent the risk of a tumor growing and creating a more aggressive cancer to treat.
Dermatologist
Similar to the annual mammogram and gynecology visit, seeing the dermatologist once a year can help catch cancer early on. Dermatologists will check skin lesions, moles, or spots for warning signs of the disease. This is especially important for mothers who spend a lot of time in the sun or who have a family history of skin cancer.
Jackson Medical Group offers primary care and gynecology appointments, click here or call 305-585-4564 to connect with our providers. To schedule an appointment for a mammogram at Jackson Memorial Hospital or Jackson North Medical Center, call 305-585-6000.