Women’s Health Checklist

Stay on top of your health at any age by following these lifetime guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and Dr. Julia McMurray, staff physician at Meriter Hospital

By Emily Bradley

In your teens
HPV Vaccine: Recommended for all 11- and 12-year-old girls, this three-part vaccine protects against several strains of the human papillomavirus that can cause cervical cancer. The vaccine can be given through age 26.

In your 20s
Physical Exams: Begin general exams every one to two years to screen for overall health, including proper nutrition and exercise as well as mental health, breast health and more.
Blood Pressure: Your doctor should check your blood pressure periodically (usually during a physical exam) to ensure levels remain within a normal range.
Pap Smear: New recommendations from the task force recommend a Pap smear every other year beginning at age 21. 
Calcium and Vitamin D: Our bodies can continue to build bone until age 35. Check with your doctor to ensure you’re getting enough of these nutrients vital for building healthy bones.
HIV: The task force recommends one HIV screening for every adult. Those with multiple sexual partners or a history of I.V. drug use should ask for more frequent screenings.
Sexually Transmitted Infections: Recommendations vary based on risk factors, but those with multiple sexual partners should be screened for STIs regularly, even if no symptoms are present.
Cholesterol: Have your cholesterol checked regularly beginning in your 20s, and continue testing every five years or upon the recommendation of your physician.
Self Breast Exam: While the task force no longer recommends self-exams, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists disagrees, advocating that self-exams should begin at age 20.

In your 30s
Pap Smear: Women should continue regular physical exams to screen for general health, but after three consecutive normal Pap smears, screenings can be reduced to once every three years.

In your 40s
Mammogram: The task force doesn’t recommend mammograms before age 50 in women with a normal risk of breast cancer, but the American Cancer Society still urges women to get a mammogram every one to two years beginning at age 40. Talk to your doctor about what’s best for you.

In your 50s
Colon Cancer Screening: Celebrate your 50th birthday with a screening for colon cancer! Several tests are available and your doctor can help decide which is right for you.
Mammogram: After age 50, every woman should begin annual mammograms.
Flu Vaccine: A yearly flu vaccine is recommended starting at age 50 to protect the immune system.

In your 60s and beyond
Bone Density Test: At age 65, a bone density test is recommended to screen for osteoporosis. Many doctors advocate earlier screenings. Discuss with your physician what is right for you.
Pneumonia Vaccine: Also at age 65, a one-time pneumonia vaccine is recommended to protect from bacteria that can cause pneumonia and other health problems.
Shingles Vaccine: Another one-time vaccine, it prevents against a painful rash that can be more common among older adults.
Later Life Care: Make sure your will is in order and discuss with your family what decisions you would like made about future medical care in case an emergency occurs.