What Health Screenings Do Women Need?
You might feel perfectly healthy, but that doesn’t mean you should skip your annual doctor’s visit. These yearly checkups are more than just routine—they’re an opportunity for your provider to offer personalized advice, recommend screenings, run essential lab tests, update your immunizations, and help you stay ahead of potential health issues. Many of the most serious conditions are best treated when caught early, and these visits play a key role in making that possible.
General guidelines exist for when to begin specific screenings, but remember: your personal health history, family background, medications, and lifestyle choices may shift those timelines. It’s always best to speak with your doctor about what’s right for you.
To support you in that journey, here’s a look at some key screenings to consider as you move through different stages of life:
The Annual Well-Woman Exam
This appointment is the foundation of preventive care. It typically includes a review of your medical history, a physical exam, and a conversation about any health concerns or lifestyle changes. Your provider can help identify early signs of issues and offer guidance tailored to your age and risk factors.
Cervical cancer screenings are often part of this visit. Starting at age 21, most women should begin Pap smears, even if they’re not sexually active. This simple test helps detect changes in cervical cells that could lead to cancer. Depending on your age and health history, Pap tests are usually done every three years, but your provider may recommend a different schedule.
Genetic Testing and Family Health Risk Counseling
If you have a strong family history of cancer, it may be worth exploring genetic testing. This form of screening looks for inherited mutations that increase your risk for certain cancers. It’s especially recommended if several close relatives have had cancer, if cancers occurred at a younger-than-usual age, or if your family background includes rare cancers or known genetic conditions.
Discussing your family’s medical history with a healthcare provider or genetic counselor can give you a clearer picture of your risk and guide the decision about whether testing is right for you.
Mammograms: Detecting Breast Cancer Early
Breast cancer is most treatable when caught early, and mammograms are the gold standard for early detection. For women at average risk, yearly screenings are typically recommended starting at age 40. If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, your doctor may suggest beginning earlier or screening more frequently.
Colon Cancer Screenings: What to Know
Colorectal cancer is another condition where early detection makes a huge difference. Colonoscopies are the most effective method of screening, allowing doctors to find and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer. Most women should begin screening around age 50, but if you have a family history or other risk factors, you may need to start sooner. Your provider can help you choose the right screening method and timeline.
Bone Density Scans for Osteoporosis
As women age, bone health becomes a bigger concern. Bone density tests, typically done with a DEXA scan, measure the levels of calcium and other minerals in your bones and can help detect osteoporosis before fractures occur. While most women begin this screening at age 65, earlier testing may be needed if you’ve experienced a fracture or have other risk factors. The scan is simple, painless, and usually repeated every two years, depending on your needs.
Women’s Health in Maryland
Bowie Internal Medicine is committed to treating any conditions you may have, as well as preventing further health complications through preventative care. For more information about managing your headaches, please contact our office to schedule an appointment or ask any questions.