Women’s Health Checkup Checklist

The past year? It’s been stressful. Work presentations came with frequent (but adorable) interruptions from pets and children. Remote schooling required ninja-like supervision. CDC restrictions on public gatherings demanded more home-cooked meals and family time. But you took it in stride. You rose to the challenge and did it all—often by putting the needs of your family, friends, and co-workers first. 

But now, we think it’s time for some much-needed self-care—in the form of checkups! Delaying medical treatment can lead to long-term negative health and financial consequences, so it’s crucial to stay on top of your preventive care. To make getting back on top of your health as easy as possible, we’ve compiled a list of the most important screenings and exams you’ll need. 

Please note that this checklist isn’t comprehensive, and every woman’s health needs are unique. This guide can be a starting point to determine your next steps, but make sure to talk to your doctor to determine which services are right for you.

Women’s Health Checkup Checklist

1. Annual Checkup. Be sure to get an annual physical. This visit to your primary care doctor typically includes a physical exam and a check to make sure you are up to date with your vaccinations. Your provider may also discuss nutrition, fitness, mental health and general wellness.
   Screenings commonly performed during an annual physical include:

   • Blood Glucose or Hemoglobin A1C Test. The CDC recommends anyone over age 45 have their blood sugar levels tested once every 3 years.

   • Blood Pressure Check (adults 20+, every 2 years).

   • Cholesterol Check (adults 20+, every 4-6 years).

   • Hearing Test (once every 10 years for adults 21-49, once every 3 years for adults 50+).

2. Mammogram. The American Cancer Society recommends that all women 45 or older schedule an annual mammogram screening. 

3. Well Woman Exam. A well woman examination typically includes a clinical breast exam (recommended annually for women 20+) and a pelvic exam with a pap smear (recommended for women 21+, every 3 years) and an HPV test (women 25+, every 5 years).

4. STD Screenings

   • An HIV test (recommended once for women 13-64).

   • A gonorrhea and chlamydia panel (recommended annually for women under 25 who are sexually active).

5. Colonoscopy. The CDC recommends for women aged 50-75 have a colonoscopy at least once every 10 years.

6. Bone Mineral Density Test (typically once at age 65, then as needed). Did you know that women reach peak bone mass at age 30? After this, bone loss begins to occur. A DXA scan can detect osteoporosis — before you break any bones.

7. Dental Cleaning (every 6-12 months).

8. Comprehensive Eye Exam. The American Optometric Association recommends that adults 18-64 get their eyes checked once every two years and once a year after age 65.

9. Dermatology Exam (recommended annually for all adults).

Remember that the recommended frequency and starting age for each screening listed can vary depending on individual health factors and family history. Talk to your doctor to determine the best plan for you, and then visit mdsave.com to see how you can save on important screenings! 

It’s time to put your health, and the health of the women in your life, first.

It’s worth it.

Sources

https://www.gethealthystayhealthy.com/tools/womens-health-checklist

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/basic_info/screening/tests.htm

https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/managing/managing-blood-sugar/a1c.html

https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/eye-exams?sso=y

https://www.skincancer.org/early-detection/annual-exams/#:~:text=As%20part%20of%20a%20complete,follow%20these%20five%20simple%20steps.