January brings fresh starts and important health observances, Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and Thyroid Awareness Month. As we begin a new year, there's no better time to prioritize preventative care and check in on your overall wellness.
At Modern Women's Health, founded by Dr. Lisa M. Jukes, M.D., F.A.C.O.G., a board-certified OB/GYN and Austin Monthly Top Doctor since 2015, we take a comprehensive approach to women's health.
From routine screenings to hormone optimization, we're here to support your wellness at every stage of life. In this blog, we’ll explore why cervical cancer screening and thyroid awareness matter, and how proactive care can set the tone for an incredible year ahead.
Cervical Cancer Awareness: Prevention Saves Lives
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers affecting women, yet approximately 11,500 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year. Regular screening and HPV vaccination have dramatically reduced cervical cancer rates. When detected early, it's highly treatable, making your annual well-woman exam essential.
The Power of Routine Screening
Cervical cancer screening is a cornerstone of preventative care at Modern Women's Health. Here's what you need to know:
- Pap Smears: This simple test checks for abnormal cervical cells. The American Cancer Society recommends women ages 25-65 receive regular Pap smears, typically every three years if results are normal.
- HPV Testing: Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes nearly all cervical cancers. HPV testing identifies high-risk strains and is often done alongside Pap smears for women 30 and older.
- Combined Testing: Co-testing provides comprehensive screening and may allow for longer intervals between visits when results are normal.
What Happens If Your Pap Smear Is Abnormal?
Abnormal results don't automatically mean cancer. Most abnormal Pap smears result from HPV infections, which the body clears naturally, or from minor cell changes that require monitoring. If your Pap shows abnormalities, your provider may recommend:
- Colposcopy: A magnified examination of your cervix performed in our office.
- Cervical Biopsy: A small tissue sample sent to a lab for analysis.
- LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure): Removes precancerous tissue to prevent cancer from developing.
Thyroid Awareness: The Tiny Gland With a Big Impact
Your thyroid produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy, body temperature, heart rate, and more. When it's not functioning properly, the effects touch nearly every aspect of your well-being, yet thyroid disorders often go undiagnosed for years.
Common Thyroid Symptoms Women May Notice
Thyroid dysfunction can be subtle or dramatic. Watch for these signs:
Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid):
- Persistent fatigue and low energy
- Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Feeling cold, especially in the hands and feet
- Dry skin, brittle nails, hair loss
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Heavy or irregular periods
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid):
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Unintentional weight loss
- Anxiety, irritability, or nervousness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Heat intolerance and increased sweating
- Light or missed periods
Many women dismiss these symptoms as stress or aging, but they deserve investigation.
Thyroid Evaluation as Part of Hormone Testing
At Modern Women's Health, thyroid evaluation is integral to our hormone testing services. Dr. Jukes and our nurse practitioners understand that thyroid function, sex hormones, and cortisol are interconnected. We assess thyroid function through blood tests that measure TSH, Free T3, Free T4, and thyroid antibodies to identify conditions such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Start the Year Feeling Your Best
The new year is an opportunity to recommit to wellness. Modern Women's Health offers comprehensive services designed to support your health, confidence, and quality of life, including:
- Medical Aesthetics: BOTOX, dermal fillers, Morpheus8, IPL, and chemical peels
- Sexual Wellness: MonaLisa Touch, Votiva, O-Shot, and labiaplasty
- Ideal Protein Weight Management: Physician-supervised, FDA-approved program with one-on-one coaching
- Hormone Evaluation: Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy through Biote and comprehensive testing
- Supplement Support: Physician-grade supplements for immune health, hormone balance, and cellular energy
Schedule Your Wellness Visit Today
January is the perfect time to take charge of your health. Concerned about thyroid symptoms or ready to feel more like yourself, the team at Modern Women's Health is here to support you.
Contact Modern Women's Health today at 512-862-1669 or visit us online to schedule your consultation.