Women’s Health Screenings at Every Stage of Life
We’re all about your health at every stage of life. That’s why we’ve put this “At-a-Glance” schedule of annual wellness screenings that can help you be and stay healthy. Every woman is unique—so your screening schedule may look a little different depending on your personal and family history. The best way to stay on top of your health? Build a strong relationship with your OBGYN provider and schedule your annual visits. Prevention isn’t just powerful—it’s life-saving.
Recommended Screenings by Age
In Your 20s: Building Healthy Habits
In your 20s, it’s all about setting a strong foundation for lifelong wellness. Regular checkups and preventive care matter more than you think.
Recommended Screenings:
- Cervical cancer screening: Pap smear (every 3 years starting at age 21): Detects abnormal cervical cells that could lead to cancer.
- HPV test: Often combined with Pap tests after age 30, but may be done earlier if there are concerns or a risk profile.
- Breast exam: Clinical breast exams during routine visits; self-awareness of changes is key.
- Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) screenings: Especially if sexually active—chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, and syphilis.
- Vaccines: discuss with your provider.
- Blood pressure check: At least every 2 years.
- Cholesterol test: At least once by age 20, then as recommended.
- Mental health screening: Important to get screened for anxiety and depression. Mental health is key to health!
In Your 30s: Early Detection is Key
As life gets busier, your health shouldn’t take a backseat. Your 30s are a good time to stay on track and be proactive about your self-care.
Recommended Screenings:
- Pap + HPV Co-test: Every 5 years if results are normal. Typically done at your annual exam.
- Breast exam: Clinical breast exams during routine visits; self-awareness of changes is key.
- Skin check: Especially if you have a family history of skin cancer or lots of moles.
- Vaccines: discuss with your provider.
- Blood sugar test: Also known as a glucose test, our team may recommend if you have risk factors for diabetes.
- Mental health screening: Important to get screened for anxiety and depression. Mental health is key to health.
In Your 40s: Focus on Preventive Care
Your 40s are a crucial decade for regular screenings, especially as risk for certain conditions begins to rise.
Recommended Screenings:
- Screening mammogram: Begin annual screening starting at age 40.
- Colorectal cancer screening: Starts at age 45!
- Pap + HPV testing: Continue every 5 years if results are normal.
- Thyroid function test: If you have symptoms or a family history or thyroid concerns.
- Vaccines: discuss with your provider.
- Cholesterol Test: Watching heart disease risk factors is key! Repeat cholesterol levels every 5 years if low risk.
- Mental health screening: Important to get screened for anxiety and depression. Mental health is key to health!
In Your 50s: Staying Ahead of the Curve
As menopause begins or continues, changes in hormone levels can affect many areas of health.
Recommended Screenings:
- Colorectal cancer screening: Start at age 45; repeat every 10 years if normal.
- Bone density test: Particularly for postmenopausal women with risk factors.
- Screening mammogram: Every 1–2 years depending on risk.
- Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar: Continue regular monitoring.
- Vaccines: discuss with your provider.
- Mental health screening: Important to get screened for anxiety and depression. Mental health is key to health
60s and Beyond: Prioritizing Longevity and Quality of Life
Now’s the time to stay active, connected, and continue regular screenings to maintain independence and wellness.
Recommended Screenings:
- Bone density test: Repeat as advised.
- Screening mammogram: Continue at least until age 74, possibly longer.
- Vaccines: Consider shingles, pneumonia, and flu vaccines.
- Mental health screening: Important to get screened for anxiety and depression. Mental health is key to health.