Women's Health Checks Every Woman Should Have
From cervical cancer screening to breast examinations, these routine checks could detect life-threatening conditions years before symptoms appear. Here is what to book and when.
Many of the most serious conditions affecting women — including cervical cancer, breast cancer, and hypertension — are highly treatable when caught early. Yet cultural stigma, lack of information, and busy schedules mean many women in Nigeria delay or skip essential screening entirely.
This guide covers the most important health checks for women, when to get them, and what they involve.
Breast Self-Examination — Every Month
Every woman should examine her breasts monthly, a few days after her period ends. You are looking for any new lump, change in shape or size, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or pain that does not resolve.
A self-examination takes three minutes and costs nothing. If you notice anything unusual, do not wait — book an appointment immediately.
Clinical Breast Examination — Every Year
A doctor or nurse examines your breasts for abnormalities. This should be done annually from the age of 25, and is included in our women's health screening package at Promise Medical Centre.
Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Smear / HPV Test)
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in Nigerian women, yet it is almost entirely preventable. The cervix can be monitored through a simple swab test during a pelvic examination.
- Ages 21–29: Pap smear every 3 years
- Ages 30–65: Pap smear plus HPV test every 5 years (or Pap smear alone every 3 years)
- Sexually active women should begin screening at age 21, or within 3 years of first sexual activity
Blood Pressure Check — Every Year
Hypertension is particularly dangerous for women during and after pregnancy, and risk increases significantly after menopause. An annual blood pressure check is essential from age 18 onwards.
Blood Glucose and Cholesterol — Every 3–5 Years
Type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol often have no symptoms. Both are identifiable with simple blood tests. Women with a family history, obesity, or PCOS should test more frequently.
Antenatal Care — Throughout Pregnancy
Pregnant women should begin antenatal care as early as 8 weeks. Regular antenatal visits allow monitoring of blood pressure, blood glucose, fetal growth, and early detection of complications including pre-eclampsia.
At Promise Medical Centre, our antenatal team supports mothers through every stage — from first booking to postnatal follow-up.
Book Your Women's Health Check
Many of these checks can be combined into a single visit at our Agege or Ota locations. If you are unsure which tests you need, our doctors will guide you based on your age, family history, and current health.