Women Health Checkup
Women should schedule regular health checkups with their healthcare providers to maintain good health and detect any potential health problems early. These checkups may vary depending on age, medical history, and risk factors, but generally include:
- Pap smear and pelvic exam: These tests are recommended every three years for women between the ages of 21 and 65 to screen for cervical cancer and other reproductive health issues.
- Breast exam and mammogram: Women should have a clinical breast exam by a healthcare provider every three years in their 20s and 30s, and annually after age 40. Mammograms are recommended every one to two years starting at age 40, depending on individual risk factors.
- Blood pressure screening: Women should have their blood pressure checked every two years starting at age 18.
- Cholesterol screening: Women should have their cholesterol levels checked every five years starting at age 45, or earlier if they have risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.
- Diabetes screening: Women should be screened for diabetes starting at age 45, or earlier if they have risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, or a family history of diabetes.
- Bone density test: Women should have a bone density test at age 65 or earlier if they have risk factors for osteoporosis.
- Skin exam: Women should have a skin exam by a healthcare provider every year to screen for skin cancer.
- Immunizations: Women should receive recommended immunizations, such as the HPV vaccine, flu vaccine, and tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap) vaccine.
It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about your individual health needs and to schedule regular checkups accordingly.