The Truth About Your Cancer Risk

From post-menopausal spotting to at-home bowel tests. HPV to painful boobs. Ask us anything about cancer, we’ve got you covered!  In this episode, Claire Murphy and Dr Mariam tackle your most pressing questions about some of the most common cancers affecting women, including cervical, ovarian, uterine, breast and bowel.  They talk to the experts to answer all your questions including what it means if you test positive for HPV and whether you still need a cervical screen if you’re in a same-sex relationship or have already had the vaccine.  Plus, they dive into your breast cancer concerns, addressing whether to get the BRCA gene test, if the age your mum was diagnosed with breast cancer matters and what to do about your random breast pain.  They also demystify those intimidating doctor's visits (no, your doctor won't remember your butt), the accuracy of the at-home bowel tests and finding the appropriate support.   THE END BITS All your health information is in the Well Hub. We understand that conversations about cancer can be difficult, whether you're navigating your own diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or remembering someone you've lost. If today's episode has brought up difficult feelings, please reach out. The Cancer Council offers a confidential support line staffed by specialist nurses, and you can call them on 13 11 20.Dr Mariam recommends The Bottom Line Podcast and the film A Little Bit of Heaven. For more specific information on the topics we discussed today, organisations like: Australian Gynaecological Cancer Foundation Ovarian Cancer Australia Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation National Breast Cancer Foundation Breast Cancer Network Australia iPrevent McGrath Foundation Bowel Cancer Australia Cancer Council  And if you just need to talk to someone immediately, you can always call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Remember to be kind to yourself, and please don't hesitate to seek support. GET IN TOUCH Sign up to the Well Newsletter to receive your weekly dose of trusted health expertise without the medical jargon. Ask a question of our experts or share your story, feedback, or dilemma - you can send it anonymously here, email here or leave us a voice note here. Ask The Doc: Ask us a question in The Waiting Room. Follow us on Instagram and Tiktok. Support independent women’s media by becoming a Mamamia subscriber CREDITS Hosts: Claire Murphy and Dr Mariam Guest: Professor Clare Scott, Dr Belinda Yeo, Dr. Penelope De Lacavalerie   Senior Producers: Claire Murphy and Sally Best Group Executive Producer: Ilaria Brophy Audio Producer: Scott Stronach Video Producer: Julian Rosario Social Producer: Elly Moore Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Information discussed in Well. is for education purposes only and is not intended to provide professional medical advice. Listeners should seek their own medical advice, specific to their circumstances, from their treating doctor or health care professional.Support the show: https://www.mamamia.com.au/mplus/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.