Preventive Care
For the Reproductive System
By Emily McBride
Mammograms
Mammograms are x-rays of the breast that locate tumors that cannot be detected by touch. Specialists look for tissue that does not look healthy in order to detect breast cancer in women. Around the age of 40 women should start getting mammograms annually. The test has proven to be life saving and is highly accurate.
Pap Smears
A small brush is used to obtain cervical mucus of a woman to send to a lab in order to find any abnormalities in the cervix. These tests identify and detect cervical cancer and should be given triennially after the age of 21.
Testicular Exams
Testicular Exams are self examinations of the testicles. Once a month a man should feel for lumps, bumps, and swelling in order to catch testicular cancer in an early stage. Testicular Cancer is the most common cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 35.
Prostate Exams
Prostate Exams are generally given to men between the ages of 40 and 70 quadrennially. The test detects a high concentration of PSA (Prostate Specific-Antigen) in the blood, which is a sign of Prostate Cancer, as PSA levels increase due to this disease. A blood sample is typically collected as well as a test performed by the doctor where the doctor sticks their finger up the patient's rectum.