Since becoming a parent just over two years ago, I’ve become acutely aware of how easy it is to put everyone else’s health before your own. Between managing our daughter’s regular check-ups, ensuring she’s meeting all her developmental milestones, and keeping up with the general chaos of family life, Steve and I often find ourselves postponing our own medical appointments. It’s a common trap that many parents fall into, but one that can have serious long-term consequences.
The reality is that maintaining our own health isn’t selfish—it’s essential for being the best parents and partners we can be. I’ve made it my mission to get back on track with regular health check-ups. Here’s what I’ve learned about the essential health screenings that none of us should ignore, regardless of how busy life gets.
Foot Health and Podiatry Checks
One health check that often gets overlooked is foot health, yet our feet are literally the foundation of our wellbeing. Whether you’re spending long hours on your feet at work, enjoying family walks around the village, or simply managing the physical demands of parenthood, your feet deserve proper attention. I’ve recently become much more aware of foot health after realising how much discomfort I was tolerating unnecessarily.
Regular foot checks—whether self-monitoring for changes or visiting a podiatrist—can catch problems early before they affect your mobility and quality of life. If you experience persistent foot pain, heel discomfort, or notice changes in how your feet feel, it’s worth getting them checked by a healthcare professional. For those who spend significant time on their feet, quality shoe inserts can make a remarkable difference in comfort and support throughout the day.
Steve was surprised to learn that foot problems can actually affect your entire body, from your knees and hips right up to your back, making foot health far more important than many of us realise. Don’t let foot pain become something you simply accept as normal—it’s worth investigating and addressing.
Blood Pressure Monitoring
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no symptoms until it’s already caused significant damage. This is why regular blood pressure checks are so crucial, yet they’re often the first thing we skip when life gets hectic.
What I love about blood pressure monitoring is how accessible it’s become. You don’t need to book a lengthy GP appointment—many pharmacies, like Day Lewis, now offer quick, free blood pressure checks that take just a few minutes. I’ve started incorporating these into my weekly shop, which makes it much easier to stay on top of regular monitoring.
Steve was initially reluctant about regular blood pressure checks, particularly since he’s always been fit and healthy. However, after learning that high blood pressure can affect anyone regardless of fitness level, and that it often runs in families, he’s now as committed as I am to regular monitoring. The convenience of pharmacy-based checks has made all the difference—we can pop in during our daughter’s naptime or whilst she’s entertained by the children’s books many pharmacies now provide.
For adults, blood pressure should ideally be checked at least once a year, though more frequent monitoring may be recommended if you have risk factors such as family history, obesity, or previous high readings. The great news is that high blood pressure is highly treatable when caught early, making regular checks one of the most important preventive measures you can take.
Cervical Screening
Cervical screening, commonly known as a smear test, is one of those appointments that many women dread and consequently postpone. I’ll admit, I was guilty of this myself—between pregnancy, breastfeeding, and the general upheaval of new parenthood, my cervical screening fell by the wayside.
However, cervical screening is genuinely one of the most effective cancer prevention tools available. It can detect abnormal cells before they become cancerous, and when cervical cancer is caught early, treatment is highly successful. In the UK, women aged 25-64 are invited for screening every three to five years, depending on age.
What helped me overcome my reluctance was understanding exactly what the test involves and remembering that the few minutes of discomfort could potentially save my life. I also found it helpful to book my appointment for a time when I knew Steve could look after our daughter, removing the stress of childcare arrangements.
For new mothers, it’s worth noting that you should wait at least 12 weeks after giving birth before having cervical screening, as pregnancy and childbirth can affect the results. Don’t let this delay turn into years of avoidance—set a reminder to book your appointment once you’re eligible.
Breast Awareness and Mammograms
Breast cancer awareness has improved dramatically over recent years, but many women still aren’t sure exactly what they should be looking for or when to seek professional screening. As someone in my late thirties, I’m not yet eligible for routine NHS mammograms (which begin at 50), but breast awareness is something I should be practising monthly.
Breast awareness isn’t just about checking for lumps—it’s about knowing what’s normal for you and noticing any changes in size, shape, skin texture, or nipple appearance. I’ve found it helpful to do this check at the same time each month, ideally just after my period when hormonal changes are minimal.
For women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, earlier screening may be recommended. If you have concerns about your family history, don’t hesitate to discuss this with your GP—they can refer you for genetic counselling if appropriate.
Steve has been wonderfully supportive in encouraging me to stay on top of breast awareness, and we’ve even discussed how important it is for men to be aware of changes in their own chest area, as men can develop breast cancer too, though it’s much rarer.
Dental Check-ups
Dental health is intrinsically linked to overall health, yet dental appointments are often the first to be cancelled when schedules get tight. Since becoming parents, Steve and I have become much more conscious of maintaining good oral health—partly because we want to set a good example for our daughter, and partly because we’ve learned how dental problems can affect everything from heart health to pregnancy outcomes. Not forgetting that although now retired, my Father was a dentist and we can’t be seen to be letting the side down!
The NHS recommends dental check-ups every six months to two years, depending on your individual risk factors. Regular check-ups can catch problems early when they’re easier and less expensive to treat. They also include oral cancer screening, which is particularly important given that oral cancer rates are increasing in the UK.
What’s made dental appointments easier to manage with a toddler is that we’re fortunate to attend the dental surgery my father used to own, where the staff have known our family for many years. They’re incredibly accommodating when we bring our daughter along, treating her like part of the extended family and making the whole experience stress-free. I realise we’re quite lucky in this regard—not everyone has access to such a welcoming, familiar environment.
However, if you’re looking for a new dental practice, it’s worth seeking out family-friendly surgeries that welcome children during appointments. Many modern practices now recognise the importance of accommodating families, which helps normalise dental visits for little ones and reduces the stress of arranging childcare. The familiarity and comfort we experience at our practice has made me appreciate just how much difference the right dental team can make to your family’s oral health journey.
Don’t forget that pregnancy can significantly affect dental health due to hormonal changes, so if you’re planning to expand your family, staying on top of dental care is particularly important.
Eye Tests
Eye tests are recommended every two years for most adults, but they’re about much more than just updating your prescription. Comprehensive eye examinations can detect early signs of serious conditions including glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure, and even brain tumours.
As someone who spends considerable time looking at screens for work, I’ve become more aware of the importance of regular eye care. Digital eye strain is increasingly common, and regular eye tests can help identify whether you need specific lenses for computer work or if your current prescription needs adjusting.
Steve was surprised to learn that many eye conditions have no early symptoms, making regular testing crucial for early detection. Glaucoma, for example, can cause irreversible vision loss before you notice any problems, but it’s easily detected during routine eye examinations.
For parents, it’s worth noting that children should have their first eye test by age three, or earlier if you have concerns. Many opticians offer free children’s eye tests, and early detection of vision problems can significantly impact a child’s development and learning.
Skin Checks
Skin cancer rates continue to rise in the UK, making regular skin monitoring increasingly important. While not everyone needs professional skin screening, everyone should be aware of changes in their moles and skin.
The ABCDE rule is helpful for monitoring moles: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter larger than 6mm, and Evolution (changes over time). I’ve made it a habit to check my skin monthly, and Steve and I help each other check areas that are difficult to see, like the back and scalp.
If you have risk factors such as fair skin, a history of sunburn, many moles, or a family history of skin cancer, you may benefit from professional skin screening. Some areas now offer mole mapping services that photograph your skin to track changes over time.
As parents, we’re also much more conscious about sun protection for our daughter and ourselves. Preventing skin damage now is far easier than treating skin cancer later.
Mental Health Check-ins
Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet it’s often overlooked in discussions about essential health checks. The transition to parenthood, work stress, and general life pressures can all impact mental wellbeing, making regular mental health check-ins crucial.
This doesn’t necessarily mean formal appointments with mental health professionals (though these are important if you’re struggling). It can be as simple as honestly assessing your mood, stress levels, sleep patterns, and overall life satisfaction on a regular basis.
Steve and I have found it helpful to have regular conversations about how we’re both coping with the demands of parenthood and work. We’ve also learned to recognise the signs that one of us might need additional support, whether that’s professional help, more time for self-care, or simply a listening ear.
Don’t hesitate to speak to your GP if you’re concerned about your mental health. They can provide support, referrals, and resources to help you maintain good mental wellbeing.
Making Health Checks a Priority
The key to staying on top of health check-ups is making them a priority rather than an afterthought. Here are some strategies that have worked for our family:
Use Technology: Set annual reminders on your phone for each type of screening. I have reminders set for six months before each appointment is due, giving me plenty of time to book.
Batch Appointments: Where possible, try to schedule multiple appointments around the same time. This reduces the mental load of remembering multiple dates and can make it easier to arrange childcare.
Make it Routine: Link health checks to other regular events. I now book my annual health MOT around my birthday, making it easier to remember.
Support Each Other: Steve and I remind each other about due appointments and offer to handle childcare so the other can attend. Having a support system makes it much easier to prioritise health.
Don’t Delay: If you receive an invitation for screening or notice something concerning, don’t put off making an appointment. Early detection is almost always better than delayed treatment.
The Bigger Picture
Regular health check-ups aren’t just about detecting problems—they’re about maintaining good health so you can enjoy life with your family. Since becoming more proactive about health screening, I feel more confident about my health status and more in control of my wellbeing.
Our daughter is still too young to understand why Mummy and Daddy go to the doctor when we’re not ill, but we’re already modelling good health behaviours that we hope she’ll carry into adulthood. Taking care of our health isn’t just about us—it’s about being there for our family for years to come.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and most health screenings are quick, accessible, and often free on the NHS. Don’t let a busy schedule become an excuse for neglecting your health. You’re worth the investment, and your family needs you to be healthy and well.
What health check-ups have you been putting off? I’d encourage you to pick one from this list and book an appointment this week. Your future self will thank you for taking action today.
