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The Big Body WoF... How Up-To-Date Are You?

13 November, 2022 - 06:59am by - Head Pixie | 10 Comments

by BR Amelia

First things first... If you find or feel anything that doesn't look or feel right - ANYTHING - please speak to a health professional. This article does not replace you taking appropriate action the moment it's required. So, with that said...

When's the last time you did your body WoF? Had yourself checked over? Kept on top of your lumps and bumps? While it's all well and good to think "I'll get it sorted next week", when it comes to our health we owe it to ourselves to stay on top of things. So what needs to be checked and when?

Breasts

Our breasts are as individual as we are, which is why it's important that you get to know yours so you can tell if anything changes. The easiest way to do this is to regularly check them. According to Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, the best time to check your breasts is around a week after your period, at which point you want to give them a little TLC, otherwise known as touch, look and check. Not sure how? There's more information about that here on the Breast Cancer Foundation website.

In New Zealand mammograms become free from the ages of 45 -to 69 and are offered every two years as part of a programme run by BreastScreen Aotearoa. To check eligibiity, for more information, or to sign up, visit the Time To Screen website.  

Cervix

When caught early, cervical cancer is very treatable, which is why if you have a cervix and have been sexually active it's important you have a smear. Currently it's recommended that you be tested every three years if you're between the ages of 26 to 69, or as directed by your health practitioner.

It's worth noting that from July 2023 there will be a change to the way we test for cervical cancer, but if before then you get the reminder to book an appointment for a smear you should make the appointment. 

Skin

Much like your breasts, it's important you become familiar with your skin so that if any changes occur you can take the next steps to keeping yourself well. Every three months is the recommended timing to check your skin, and during your check you need to check all the nooks and crannies - including behind the ears, on your scalp, under your armpits, between your toes, and even the soles of your feet. It's a good idea to have a trusted friend or family member check the areas you can't. As for what to look for, and when to take action? Check out the Sunsmart website.

Alternatively, if the budget allows, you can book in for an annual skin mapping appointment, which may use photography, dermoscopy and digital technology to spot as well as keep track of changes in the skin. Providers often have their own methods and points of differences, so doing your research before making an appointment is important.

Teeth

It's so easy to ignore our gnashers, especially when they're not giving us any grief. That being said, regular check ups (once or twice a year for monitoring and cleaning seems to be what's recommended on the dentist's websites we checked), will pick up any small problems, which will avoid you dealing with a big problem and shelling out the big dollars down the track.

So, how up to date are you with your body's WoF? Are you in need of a tune up? Or is your body check engine running smoothly? Get chatting below!

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Comments

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21st November, 2022

I'm pretty up-to-date, now that I'm registered on the wonderful national screening programmes we have here, and being pale I make sure I get a yearly skin check. The dentist is one I'm always tempted to put off, but I know it'll save money (and pain!) in the long run. I do forget to do regular breast checks though... Such a simple thing to do too, and it could save your life! Good reminder, thanks.

18th November, 2022

Everything else is up to date. In process of dentist things. Not my favourite.

18th November, 2022

Opps not once a week its once a month the "week" after our monthly. Read that part wrong. Cat woke me up early this morning hense the incorrect reading. She's making a right racket clawing my bed!

18th November, 2022

Wow didn't think I was supposed to check my boobs once a week!

16th November, 2022

Fine with everything else except the dentist and I know I need to go but just keep putting it off because of the costs and what the dentist will say lol.I haven't been since I was 16 and yes I am ashamed to admit that.

15th November, 2022

I got to be part of the pilot for the new cervical screening - it's such an improvement!!! But haven't been to the dentist since I moved early this year, and have been thinking I should get a skin check. Good reminders!!

14th November, 2022

I got my lady warrant for the year. All is good! Gotta keep on top of it ladies!

14th November, 2022

A great article, a friend of mine has breast cancer and reminds all her friends to check regularly. I found a lump and am in the investigation stage of the process. A quick exam in the shower takes no time but could have potentially saved my life.

14th November, 2022

The only one I am not a fan of is the dentist!!!!!

14th November, 2022

Definitely shy away from all of the above , unless l see a problem my self l might get it seen too . It's probably a bit of not having time for myself, scared if cost involved. Hey l have been waiting two years for hip surgery, with no help , so its better hide my head in the sand ! And not know of any more things that need fixing.

Lisa-Lou
14th November, 2022

I hope everything comes back all clear for you! :-)