Women are often the ones who remember everyone else’s appointments. The kids’ dental check-ups, a partner’s skin check, an ageing parent’s specialist visit. Their own health, meanwhile, tends to slide down the list. Work deadlines, family commitments and simple busyness mean that routine checks get postponed again and again.

Yet many serious health conditions are easier to treat when they’re found early, and some checks take only a few minutes. Booking a handful of key appointments each year is one of the most effective things women can do for their long-term wellbeing. A women’s health clinic such as Her Health can be a convenient place to start, bringing several checks and conversations together in one setting.

Your yearly check-ups

A general health check with your GP

A yearly visit to your GP is a good foundation. It’s a chance to review your overall health, discuss any symptoms, check your weight and blood pressure and talk about lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, sleep, alcohol and stress.

High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so regular checks are the only way to detect it. Your GP can also recommend blood tests to check cholesterol, blood sugar, iron levels and thyroid function, depending on your age and risk factors. Use the appointment to update your vaccinations and ask about any screenings you’re due for.

A skin check

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Check your skin regularly for new spots or changes in existing moles, such as changes in size, shape or colour, and sores that don’t heal.

Many people benefit from a professional skin check, particularly if they have fair skin, lots of moles, a history of sunburn or a family history of skin cancer.

Cancer screening tests

Cervical screening

The Cervical Screening Test checks for human papillomavirus, which can cause changes that may lead to cervical cancer. In Australia, women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 are generally recommended to have a cervical screening test every five years.

Many people can now choose to collect their own sample, which some find more comfortable. Talk to your doctor about the options and when you’re due.

Breast checks and mammograms

Get to know how your breasts normally look and feel, and see your doctor promptly if you notice changes such as lumps, skin dimpling, nipple changes or unusual discharge.

BreastScreen Australia offers free screening mammograms every two years for women aged 50 to 74, and women aged 40 and over are also eligible. If you have a family history of breast cancer, your doctor may recommend a different screening plan.

Bowel cancer screening

Bowel cancer is one of Australia’s most common cancers, and early detection makes a big difference. The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program provides free home test kits every two years to eligible people aged 45 to 74.

Doing the test is simple and done in the privacy of your own home. If you notice symptoms such as blood in your stool or ongoing changes in bowel habits, see your GP rather than waiting for a screening kit.

Women’s health and wellbeing

Pelvic health and menstrual or menopausal concerns

Many women put up with symptoms such as painful or heavy periods, bladder leaks, pelvic pain or pain during sex, assuming they’re just part of life. They don’t have to be. Women’s health GPs, gynaecologists and pelvic health physiotherapists can help diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions.

For women in their forties and fifties, perimenopause and menopause can bring hot flushes, sleep problems, mood changes and other symptoms. A conversation with your doctor about management options can make a big difference to quality of life. Bone health is also worth discussing, as the risk of osteoporosis increases after menopause.

A mental health check-in

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Stress, anxiety, low mood and burnout are common, particularly for women juggling many responsibilities.

If you’re feeling persistently down, anxious or overwhelmed, talk to your GP. They can discuss support options, including a mental health treatment plan that may give you access to Medicare rebates for sessions with a psychologist. If you’re in crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or emergency services on 000.

Make your health a priority

Booking these checks doesn’t have to take over your calendar. Many can be done in one or two appointments each year. Put reminders in your phone, book your next check before you leave the clinic and encourage friends and family to do the same. Looking after your own health isn’t selfish. It’s one of the best ways to make sure you can keep doing everything else you care about.