May is National Women’s Health Month and a great time to encourage women to prioritize their well-being, no matter their stage of life. While this month aims to educate on preventive screenings, self-care and healthy habits, a woman’s health should be at the forefront of their life all year round. From their 20s, through 60s and beyond, women live the healthiest, most fulfilled lives when they prioritize their health at every stage.
A few preventive screenings are recommended for women beginning at age 20. At this age, a woman usually receives their first pap smear and pelvic exam. These screenings are usually performed at the same time and can often get confused. A pelvic exam is a routine physical check-up of a woman’s gynecological health. The provider will check for any abnormalities or unusual growth. Around this time, a woman will also receive their first pap smear. This is also a physical exam at your gynecologist's office, but it’s testing for cervical cancer. A pap smear collects cells from the cervix, and the sample is then sent to a lab for further testing. Typically, these exams are repeated every two-to-three years.
Another key preventive screening is a mammogram, which typically begins in a woman’s 40s. This is an annual exam for breast cancer and can often be done on the same day as the annual check. A provider will take an X-ray of breast tissue to look for abnormal areas. Having a mammogram done yearly, typically starting at the age of 40 unless otherwise noted by your provider, will help detect breast cancer earlier, before symptoms are present, allowing for earlier treatment interventions and better outcomes. Starting at age 45, unless otherwise directed by your provider to start earlier, a woman should undergo appropriate colorectal cancer screening. One of the most common screening tests is a colonoscopy, which examines the inside of the large intestine. With a normal initial colonoscopy and average risk, women should repeat a colonoscopy about every 10 years to check for colon cancer. Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when measures like colonoscopy are taken. Some additional screenings that may be overlooked include an eye exam, cholesterol screening, a bone density test and a regular dental exam.
Between scheduled preventive screenings, it’s also advised to perform regular self-checks. This includes monitoring your skin for any changes or concerns, which can help catch cancers or other skin conditions before they progress. A monthly breast self-exam is also recommended, as it helps you understand what’s normal for your breast tissue, so you can quickly report any changes to your doctor.
Staying on top of these screenings and self-checks can make a meaningful difference in early detection and overall health outcomes. National Women’s Health Month serves as an important reminder, but caring for your health is a lifelong commitment that deserves attention every day of the year. To learn more about women’s health and what you can do to stay on top of your care, visit our women’s health resources.
