It is essential for every female especially those aged 21 years and over to go for screening tests frequently even if they are healthy. These tests are paramount because they screen for any medical problems, assess future medical risks as well as encourage a healthy lifestyle. For a 21-year-old healthy female, one of the recommended screening tests is the pelvic exam and a Papanicolaou smear for cervical cancer that is done after every three years. The pelvic exams are done yearly, and they look at the vulva, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, and the rectum. A clinical breast exam is also recommended at an interval of one to three years not forgetting the Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test at least once or annually if there are risk factors involved. STD testing regularly is also vital.
Teenagers need counseling on various issues especially those dealing with sex, and hence participation in school or community-based sex education programs should be encouraged. They get to learn about sex, contraceptives, anatomy and other significant topics on sexuality and it has been proven to be very important over time. Sexually active teens should be advised to use a condom during sexual intercourse and have one sexual partner. Frequent screening for STDs and other diseases is also recommended so that infections can be detected at early stages. The nurse practitioner should address issues on sexual activities, violence, and drug abuse. Quite a number of young people are victims of sexual violence, and they are afraid to speak up.
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