By your 50s, you’ve likely seen a few health chapters come and go — from fertility to family life, and the early signs of menopause. This is a time when physical health and preventive care can offer reassurance, confidence and strength for the years ahead.
Whether you feel fantastic, flat, or somewhere in between, staying up to date with key health checks is one of the best ways to protect your wellbeing. It’s not about finding problems but rather about giving yourself every opportunity to feel well, move freely, and stay connected to care that’s right for you.
At Bloom Women’s Health, we work with your GP to provide specialist support for gynaecological and hormonal health concerns that arise more often in this stage of life. With clarity, respect and clinical expertise, our team supports women navigating midlife and beyond.
Breast Cancer Screening: Every Two Years from 50
In Australia, women aged 50 to 74 are strongly encouraged to have a screening mammogram every two years through BreastScreen Australia. These free tests are designed to detect early changes long before symptoms appear.
If you’ve never had a mammogram before or it’s been a while, now is the time to check in with your GP. They can help you understand what to expect, especially if you’ve noticed any new breast changes or have a family history of breast cancer.
If something abnormal is detected on a screening mammogram, your GP may refer you to a breast specialist. At Bloom, our team can support with follow-up care and coordination alongside your GP.
Cervical Screening: Still Important Until Age 74
The National Cervical Screening Program recommends Cervical Screening Tests (CSTs) every five years for eligible women aged 25 to 74. Even if you are postmenopausal or no longer sexually active, screening remains important.
That’s because cervical cancer often develops slowly over time, and can still occur after menopause. If you’re unsure whether you’re due, a simple conversation with your GP can clarify your next step.
If results from your CST require specialist review, Bloom’s gynaecologists are here to support follow-up, including colposcopy and management of abnormal cervical changes.
Bowel Cancer Screening: Starts at 50, Every Two Years
From age 50, Australians are eligible to receive a free bowel cancer screening kit in the mail every two years. This simple home test checks for blood in the stool, which is a possible early sign of bowel cancer, even when you feel well.
Participation in this program can save lives, with early-stage bowel cancer often curable. If your results are positive, your GP will discuss further testing, such as a colonoscopy.
Bone Density: Don’t Wait Until a Fracture
After menopause, women’s oestrogen levels drop, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis. This makes bones thinner, more fragile, and more prone to fracture, often without obvious symptoms until an injury occurs.
If you’ve had early menopause, a family history of osteoporosis, low BMI, or prior fractures, your GP may recommend a DEXA scan to assess your bone strength. It’s a simple, non-invasive test that helps guide next steps, from lifestyle strategies to medication.
Our specialists at Bloom support women managing bone health issues related to menopause and hormonal change.
Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health: Reassess Your Risk
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in Australia. After menopause, cardiovascular risk rises due to changes in cholesterol, blood pressure, and insulin sensitivity.
In your 50s and beyond, your GP may recommend:
- Blood pressure checks
- Lipid profile (cholesterol and triglycerides)
- HbA1c or fasting blood glucose (especially if you’ve had gestational diabetes)
These tests are key to early detection. If needed, your GP may suggest lifestyle changes or refer you to a specialist. At Bloom, we can assist with related hormonal concerns that affect weight, metabolism and menstrual history.
Menopause and Hormonal Health: Tailored Care for Changing Needs
If you haven’t already reached menopause, it’s likely to occur during this decade. But symptoms can continue well into your 50s and 60s, including hot flushes, joint pain, low mood, brain fog and vaginal dryness.
You don’t have to wait until symptoms feel overwhelming. Your GP can support with screening, discussion of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) also known as Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT), and referral to a gynaecologist if symptoms are complex or persistent.
At Bloom, our team supports women with evidence-based menopause care, from HRT to vaginal health treatments and personalised management plans.
Pelvic Health and Prolapse: Common, But Not Inevitable
After menopause, many women experience weakening of the pelvic floor, sometimes leading to prolapse, incontinence, or discomfort during intimacy.
If you’ve noticed a bulging sensation, dragging discomfort, or bladder issues, bring it up with your GP. These symptoms are common but treatable.
At Bloom, we support women with pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence, and changes linked to age, childbirth or hormonal shifts. With a referral, we can help you explore options like pessaries, physiotherapy or surgical treatment where appropriate.
Mental and Cognitive Health: More Than Just Mood
Women in their 50s often balance career, ageing parents, adult children and health concerns, all while experiencing hormonal change. It’s understandable if mood or motivation feel harder to maintain.
Your GP can offer early support, screen for depression or cognitive changes, and discuss strategies or referrals under a Mental Health Care Plan. If emotional changes are linked to menopause or physical symptoms, Bloom’s gynaecologists can contribute to your broader care.
Stay Connected to Care That Understands Your Needs
Most health checks begin with your GP, but specialist support can make all the difference when symptoms are unclear, persistent or affecting your daily life.
At Bloom Women’s Health, our gynaecologists offer expert support for:
- Menopause and postmenopausal care
- Pelvic floor pain, conditions and prolapse
- Heavy or irregular bleeding
- Osteoporosis risk and hormone management
- Cervical abnormalities requiring follow-up
With a referral, we work closely with your GP to provide integrated, respectful and tailored care, helping you feel informed, confident and supported.
Further Reading from Bloom Women’s Health
- Understanding Menopause and HRT
- Perimenopause, Menopause, and Post-menopause: What every woman should know
- Everything you need to know about Cervical Screening Tests
- Self-monitoring Perimenopausal Symptoms & Depression
To learn more about Bloom Women’s Health gynaecologists and services, visit bwhealth.com.au.
