From puberty to menopause, gynecological health evolves and deserves regular monitoring. Contraception, screenings, pregnancy, hormonal transition: so many moments when a professional (gynecologist, midwife or attending physician) can inform, screen and support. Let's take stock of the appointments not to be missed.
1. When to start monitoring?
There is no compulsory age for a first consultation. It can take place during adolescence, often motivated by a question of contraception, painful periods or simply information. This first meeting is above all a time for listening: an examination is not systematic.
2. Screening by age
Two screenings structure the follow-up. The smear (or HPV test) detects lesions of the cervix. Mammography screens for breast cancer.
| Screening | Affected population | Recommended pacing |
|---|---|---|
| Cervico-uterine smear | 25 – 29 years | 2 tests then every 3 years |
| Test HPV | 30 – 65 years | Every 5 years |
| Mammography | 50 – 74 years | Every 2 years |
Outside of these programs, closer monitoring may be offered in the event of a family history or risk factors.
3. Contraception and life plans
Gynecological follow-up is the time to approach contraception and adapt it to each period of life. It also supports pregnancy plans, pregnancy monitoring (often shared with a midwife) and postpartum.
4. Menopause and after
At menopause, follow-up remains important: it allows symptoms to be monitored, bone health (risk of osteoporosis) and cardiovascular health to be monitored, and screenings to continue. Consultation remains useful even after the periods have stopped.
Regardless of age, any unusual symptom (abnormal bleeding, pain, lump) warrants a consultation without waiting for the next appointment.
💡 tips to remember
- The first gynecological appointment can take place as early as adolescence: it is primarily a time for information and listening, an examination is not systematic.
- Cervical cancer screening is based on the smear between the ages of 25 and 29, then the HPV test every 5 years from the ages of 30 to 65.
- Screening mammography is recommended every 2 years between the ages of 50 and 74, earlier if there is a family history.
- Monitoring does not stop at menopause: it accompanies symptoms and monitors bone health and cardiovascular.
- Any unusual symptom (abnormal bleeding, pain, lump) warrants a consultation without waiting for the next appointment.
