Pap smears to bone density tests: What your gynaecologist wants you to check in your 20s, 30s and beyond

A woman's gynecological health priorities shift significantly throughout her life, necessitating tailored medical checks and screenings at different stages. Experts emphasize the importance of consulting a gynecologist for guidance on everything from managing painful or irregular periods in one's 20s to navigating menopause symptoms later in life.

“

Your 20s is also when cervical screening begins.

For women in their 20s, the focus is often on reproductive and sexual health. This includes addressing issues like painful, heavy, or irregular menstrual cycles. Crucially, this decade marks the beginning of cervical screening. According to Singapore's Ministry of Health guidelines, women who have been sexually active should have their first Pap smear at age 25. For those aged 25 to 29, a Pap smear is recommended every three years.

As women enter their 30s, the recommended cervical screening changes. From age 30 onwards, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test is the preferred routine screening, conducted every five years. Dr. Freda Khoo, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist, explains that while HPV infections are common, especially in younger, sexually active individuals, the body's immune system typically clears the virus on its own. The rationale for delaying HPV testing until age 30 is to avoid detecting transient infections that the body would naturally resolve.

“

all women who have ever had sex are recommended to have their first Pap smear at the age of 25.

The HPV vaccine is also a key recommendation, ideally administered before a woman becomes sexually active, as HPV is primarily transmitted sexually. In Singapore, the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule includes two doses of the HPV vaccine for females at age 13. The vaccine is designed to protect against high-risk HPV strains that can lead to cervical cancer and other related conditions. Beyond cervical health, gynecologists can also advise on other screenings and tests relevant to a woman's age and health status, helping to prevent more serious conditions like osteoporosis.

“

The body’s own immune system clears the HPV on its own most of the time, especially if you are young and healthy. Thus, many times, the HPV infection in the younger age group might be transient.