Visiting your doctor regularly helps you maintain your health and stay ahead of conditions that you may be predisposed to due to risk factors including genetics. Women need certain health screenings at different times of their life.
Below, we compiled the ultimate guide for women’s health screenings and recommendations. Use this as a starting point — your health care provider can fine-tune it to fit your unique needs.
Screenings for Women of All Ages
Annual Well Woman Visit
This is a checkup focused on preventive gynecologic care for a woman including screening for cervical and breast cancer. Learn more about what to expect at a well woman visit.
Annual Wellness Exam
This is a checkup focused on all your body systems including your heart, lungs and intestines. Remember to ask whether your vaccines are up to date. Learn more about the importance of preventive care.
Eye Exam
Check with your eye doctor — you may need eye exams yearly. Most people get a visual acuity test and dilated eye exam once a year.
Behavioral Health Screenings
At regular visits, talk openly with your provider about your emotions. Your primary care provider can screen for anxiety and depression and refer you to a behavioral health specialist if needed.
A1C Test for Diabetes
If you show symptoms or are at risk for diabetes, your provider may recommend this test. Learn more about the A1C test.
HIV Test
Everyone should be tested for HIV at least once in their lifetime. Your provider may recommend other infectious disease or sexually transmitted disease screenings.
Tests in Your 20s and 30s
- Blood pressure: At least once a year
- Cholesterol: At least every 4 to 6 years
- Pap test and/or HPV test: Every 3 to 5 years, depending on the test
Tests in Your 40s and 50s
- Blood pressure: At least once a year
- Cholesterol: At least every 4 to 6 years
- Pap test and/or HPV test: Every 3 to 5 years, depending on the test
- Colonoscopy: At least every 10 years, starting at age 45
- Mammogram: Start screening mammograms at age 40 and then yearly
- Bone density test: Usually after menopause
Tests in Your 60s
- Blood pressure: At least once a year
- Cholesterol: At least every 4 to 6 years
- Pap test and/or HPV test: Every 3 to 5 years, depending on the test (you may be able to stop screening after age 65)
- Colonoscopy: At least every 10 years
- Mammogram: Every year
- Bone density test: Starting at age 65 or earlier if you are at risk for osteoporosis, then every 2 years
Women’s Health Care at University Health
No matter what stage of life you’re in, you’ll find compassionate, tailored preventive health care at University Health. Find a University Health women’s health provider to discuss what health screenings are right for you.
