How To Be A Well Woman

Knowledge is power, they say, so wield some girl power with these health dos and don’ts

- Susannah Hickling

DO Check your breasts

Make sure you know your own breasts and how they should feel. Check them regularly, preferably in the shower or bath. Make it a habit. That way, you’ll notice when something feels different. Make sure you feel around the armpits and up as far as the collarbone. Look at yourself in the mirror too, with your arms by your side and raised. Don’t delay making an appointment with your GP if there are any changes.

DO have mammograms when called

Between ages 50 and 71, you’ll be called for breast screening every three years. You can still be screened after that—and remember that breast cancer is predominantly a disease of older women—but you’ll have to be proactive by contacting your local screening unit yourself.

DO always go for smear tests