Call Your Doctor Day is a holiday that falls on the second Tuesday of June and serves as a gentle reminder to young women that they need to schedule their annual Well-Woman Checkup. A Well-Woman Checkup is absolutely critical for detecting breast and reproductive cancers, and when these cancers are caught early, the chances of successful treatment increase dramatically. A Well-Woman Visit can also help prevent other diseases, including diabetes. These are good reasons why every woman should take the time to call their doctor and schedule regular visits.

The History of Call Your Doctor Day

Call Your Doctor Day was created in 2016 by Bright Pink—a charity organization dedicated to saving women’s lives from ovarian and breast cancers and enabling them to live proactively throughout their lives. The first observance of this holiday occurred on June 21, 2016, and it has been observed on the second Tuesday of June ever since.

What Happens During a Well-Woman Exam?

During a well-woman exam, the doctor will first ask the woman some questions that will give them insight into her health and help determine what additional tests may be needed. Doctors will usually inquire about nutrition, smoking, exercise, menstrual cycles, sexual practices, and alcohol consumption. They will also perform a variety of tests that may include a breast and pelvic exam, bone density scan, mammogram, and Pap smear.

Observing Call Your Doctor Day

Women are strongly encouraged to schedule a Well-Woman Exam with their doctor on this day—or if it’s not possible to do so on this day, then as soon as possible. Diabetes and many forms of reproductive and breast cancers can be successfully treated if they’re caught early, and that’s why regular exams are so important. Women should also help spread the word about this holiday to their peers using the hashtag #CallYourDoctorDay on their social media accounts.