Women’s Health Week (in May) is dedicated to raising awareness about preventive care. From your 20s through your senior years, routine exams and screenings are vital for early detection and optimal health. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what women need and when.
Your 20s and 30s
- Annual Wellness Visit
Blood pressure, BMI, and lifestyle counseling. - Cervical Cancer Screening
Pap smear every 3 years starting at 21; consider HPV co-testing at 30. - Cholesterol Check
Baseline lipid panel by age 35 (women).
Your 40s and 50s
- Mammograms
Annual or biennial starting at 40 (or earlier based on risk). - Bone Density Testing
Discuss with your provider if you have risk factors for osteoporosis. - Diabetes Screening
Fasting glucose or A1C every 3 years beginning at 45.
60 and Beyond
- Colon Cancer Screening
Colonoscopy every 10 years or alternative modalities starting at 45 and continuing through 75. - Vision & Hearing Exams
Annual checks to monitor age-related changes. - Vaccinations
Shingles, pneumonia, and annual flu shots as recommended.
Preventive care is your best defense. Knowing which screenings you need and when can save lives. Katy Family Medicine offers complete women’s health services across all ages. Schedule your women’s health checkup during Women’s Health Week and stay proactive about your well-being.
