Women's health in Queanbeyan
GPs and a nurse practitioner consulting at Rutledge Family Medical Centre see women at every stage of life, from first periods to after menopause. Pathology is on site.
Choose a long appointment if you have more than one concern or need more time to talk things through.
Your health at every life stage
What to look out for, and the health checks recommended at each stage. Checks are based on RACGP preventive health guidelines and Australia's national screening programs. Your GP may suggest different checks based on your health and family history.
- About 10 to 19
Puberty and teens
Look out for
- No period by age 15
- Very heavy or painful periods, or periods that stop you going to school
- Acne, extra hair growth or very irregular periods
- Low mood, anxiety, or worries about eating, weight or body image
Checks and care
- Vaccinations through the school program
- Confidential appointments, so young people can talk to a GP or nurse practitioner on their own
- Contraception and sexual health advice when needed
- 20s and 30s
Periods, contraception and planning a family
Look out for
- Painful or heavy periods, or pain during sex
- Irregular periods, acne or extra hair growth
- Unusual discharge, itch or sores
- Changes in mood or energy
Checks and care
- Cervical screening every 5 years from age 25
- Sexual health checks if you are sexually active
- Blood pressure check at least every 2 years
- A pre-pregnancy check if you are planning a family
- Any age
Pregnancy and after birth
Look out for
- Bleeding or pain during pregnancy (get help urgently)
- Low mood or anxiety during pregnancy or after birth
- Feeding difficulties
- Bladder leaks after birth
Checks and care
- GP obstetrics and shared antenatal care
- A 6-week check for you and your baby
- Lactation and postnatal care and the tongue and lip tie clinic
- 40s
Perimenopause
Look out for
- Irregular, heavier or lighter periods
- Hot flushes, night sweats or trouble sleeping
- Mood changes, anxiety or brain fog
- Less interest in sex
Checks and care
- Diabetes risk check every 3 years from 40
- Heart health check every 2 years from 45 (from 30 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
- Free bowel screening kit every 2 years from 45
- Breast screening available from 40
- 50s and 60s
Menopause and beyond
Look out for
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex
- Bladder leaks or urgency
- Any bleeding after menopause (see a GP soon)
Checks and care
- Breast screening every 2 years from 50 to 74
- Cervical screening and bowel screening until 74
- Heart health check every 2 years
- Bone health check after menopause
- 70 and over
Healthy ageing
Look out for
- Falls or unsteadiness
- Bladder control
- Changes in memory, vision or hearing
Checks and care
- Bone density scan from 70, or earlier if you are at risk
- A yearly health assessment from 75
- Vaccinations recommended for your age
If symptoms affect your sleep, work, relationships or wellbeing, book a long appointment so there is time to talk through your options, including their benefits and risks. Your GP can refer you to a gynaecologist or other specialist if needed.
