Preventative Medicine

At 3 Point Elite, we understand that as women, we often prioritize taking care of our home and family, but it’s important not to forget about our own health. Our Preventative Medicine services are designed to ensure that you receive comprehensive screenings to maintain the health of your female reproductive tract.

Our Preventative Medicine service includes routine screenings such as breast exams, mammograms, and Pap smears. These screenings are essential for early detection of any potential health issues and play a critical role in maintaining optimal women’s health.

Let’s take a detailed look at what our services offer and why you should consider getting them.

1. Breast Exams

Breast exams are a crucial component of preventative medicine for women’s health, as they can help identify any potential abnormalities that may require further evaluation. These exams can be performed by a healthcare provider or done by yourself as a breast self-exam, and involve carefully checking the breasts for any changes, lumps, or abnormalities.

During a clinical breast exam, your healthcare provider will carefully palpate (feel) your breasts and underarms to detect any unusual lumps or thickening of breast tissue. They will also visually inspect your breasts for any changes in size, shape, or skin texture. Your healthcare provider may also teach you how to perform breast self-exams at home to become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts and to report any changes or abnormalities promptly.

It is generally recommended that women perform monthly breast self-exams to become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts and to report any changes or abnormalities to their healthcare provider promptly. You should take a clinical breast exam by a professional healthcare provider every 1-3 years if you are in your 20s and 30s, and annually if you are aged 40 and older.

2. Mammogram

Mammogram is another vital screening tool used in preventative medicine for women’s health. In simple words, it is a specialized X-ray of the breast that can detect early signs of breast cancer, often before any symptoms are noticeable.

During a mammogram, the breast is compressed between two plates to obtain images of the breast tissue. Once the process is completed, a radiologist will examine the images to identify any potential abnormalities, such as lumps, calcifications, or distortions in the breast tissue. This is done to detect breast cancer at an early stage so it is easier to treat and has a higher chance of a successful outcome.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women start getting mammograms annually starting at age 40, or earlier if they have higher risk factors for breast cancer. However, the recommended age and frequency for mammograms may vary depending on individual risk factors and personal preferences, and it’s best to discuss with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate schedule for you.

3. Pap Smears

Pap smears, also known as Pap tests or cervical cytology, are important screening tests that are specifically designed to detect abnormal cells in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.

During a Pap smear, a small sample of cells is collected from the cervix and then examined under a microscope to identify any abnormal changes in the cells. Pap smears can detect early signs of cervical cancer or pre-cancerous changes, allowing for early intervention and treatment.

This treatment is typically recommended for women starting at the age of 21. The frequency of Pap smears may vary depending on individual risk factors, health history, and age. In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend combining a Pap smear with human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, which is a common cause of cervical cancer.

Why Is Regular Screening Important?

Regular preventative screenings are essential for women’s health for several reasons:

• Early detection: Preventative screenings can detect potential health issues at their earliest stages before they progress into more serious conditions. Early detection allows for timely intervention and treatment, which can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.

• Prevention: Preventative screenings are crucial in identifying risk factors and addressing them proactively. By identifying potential issues early, your healthcare provider can work with you to implement preventive measures to reduce your risk of developing certain conditions.

• Peace of mind: Knowing that you are up-to-date with your screenings can provide you with peace of mind and confidence in your overall health. Regular screenings can help you stay proactive in managing your health and taking control of your well-being.

• Empowerment: By prioritizing preventative screenings, you are taking charge of your own health and empowering yourself to make informed decisions about your healthcare. It shows that you value your health and are committed to maintaining it, setting a positive example for your loved ones.

At 3 Point Elite, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized preventative medicine for women. Our experienced providers will ensure that you receive the highest standard of care in a supportive and compassionate environment. Don’t neglect your health – schedule your preventative screenings with us today and take a proactive step towards maintaining optimal women’s health.