In a video published on his Instagram account, Dr Olivier Marpeau alias @mon.gyneco recalls that after menopause, gynecological follow-up must not stop. The message is simple: menopause does not end the need for prevention, screening and symptom assessment.
After menopause, follow-up remains recommended
Menopause marks the end of periods, not the end of medical monitoring. Health Insurance reminds that it remains essential to be monitored regularly, particularly once a yearby your attending physician or gynecologist. To go further, True Medical also details the recommended medical follow-up during menopause.
In his video, Dr. Olivier Marpeau emphasizes a simple idea: when we think of female cancers, we often think first of breast cancer, but other gynecological cancers exist, such as those of the cervix, endometrium, ovary, vagina or vulva. Many of them, including endometrial and ovarian cancers, occur more often after menopause. This does not mean that menopause causes them: age and other factors can intervene, and each situation must be evaluated medically.
“Gynecological follow-up, no break after menopause”.
This formula sums up the issue well, provided it is understood correctly: monitoring is not used to multiply systematic examinations without reason, but to maintain a benchmark for prevention, to talk about the effects of menopause if necessary, and to
do not trivialize certain unusual signs. The account also cites several possible contacts: gynecologist, general practitioner or midwife, depending on the needs and the possibilities of follow-up.
What can be detected, and what should alert
The clearest point concerns cervical cancer. The gynecologist mentions the “smear”; in practice, the organized screening program concerns women aged 25 to 65, including after the onset of menopause. The procedures vary with age: cytology before age 30, then HPV test from age 30 to 65, according to recommendations. In other words, cervical screening does not automatically stop at menopause.
For the endometrium and the ovary, the situation is different. Unlike the cervix, there is no simple and systematic organized screening recommended for all women without symptoms. This is why the gynecologist emphasizes the signs which should lead to seeking medical advice, without interpreting them as a diagnosis.
- Any vaginal bleeding after menopause
must lead to rapid consultation; a useful point to explore in more detail with our article on bleeding after menopause; - Persistent bloating, abdominal or pelvic pain, digestive or urinary problems that last several weeks also merit medical advice;
- Chronic or unusual pain is not specific for cancer, but its persistence warrants evaluation.
These symptoms can have many causes, often benign. The important point is their unusual nature, persistent or associated with a felt change. Concerning ovarian cancer, the signs are sometimes not very specific, which reinforces the importance of gynecological follow-up after menopause in the face of ovarian cancer.
In consultation, discussion of symptoms and clinical examination can guide further action. An ultrasound or other tests may be offered if necessary, but they do not replace the overall medical evaluation. The objective is therefore not to worry about every digestive sensation or temporary pain, but to keep a simple reflex: after menopause, a new or persistent sign should be discussed with a health professional.