5 Preventative Health Checks To Help Women Stay Healthy And Happy

Every human body benefits from regular preventative healthcare, but women face unique risks and challenges as they age—making preventive health visits even more important.

Unfortunately, surveys have found that 45% of women have skipped some form of preventative healthcare. Are you among them? Do you know what preventive care procedures you should have at various stages of your life and why? Here are a few of the most important and what to expect.

1. Pap Smears and Exams

Most adult women should have regular—usually annual—visits with their reproductive healthcare provider or family doctor. A quick physical exam and pap smear let the doctor check for changes in the cervix and other potential problems with the reproductive system. Simultaneously, they may perform a brief breast exam by hand to ensure no abnormal masses. 

2. Colon Cancer Screening

While most women know about the need to screen for problems in their reproductive system, less pay attention to the risk of colon cancer and other health issues in their digestive system. Most women should begin screening at age 50, although those with certain risk factors may start earlier.

A colonoscopy is the standard screening tool. The patient prepares in advance by following instructions to clear the colon. The test itself is generally painless. It's usually not done yearly; you can go several years between colonoscopies. Less-invasive alternatives are done annually—often at home—and may only require a follow-up colonoscopy if specific abnormalities are found. 

3. Mammograms and Breast Checks

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that most women begin receiving annual mammograms at age 50. However, some women may start these yearly diagnostic screenings earlier if they have higher risk factors. A mammogram is a simple test at an imaging center, although it may be mildly uncomfortable.

Along with breast self-exams and your annual check by a doctor, mammograms reduce the chances of undiscovered breast cancers. You and your doctor can also discuss whether or not you may decline this schedule as you age.

4. Menopause Preparedness

There is no set age at which you will begin dealing with menopause. Women in their 30s may start to experience related symptoms, but others may not reach menopause until their late 40s or even their 50s.

Menopause begins with perimenopause, during which periods may become irregular, you may get hot flashes or other physical changes, and emotional changes are expected. While menopause is a natural event, your doctor can help you be aware of symptoms, lessen those symptoms, and monitor for abnormalities.

5. Bone Density Tests

Osteoporosis is a heightened risk for women who have experienced menopause. Calcium levels tend to drop in post-menopausal women, making their bones more fragile. This combines with the higher fall risks for older persons, resulting in broken bones.

A bone density test tells your provider if you should take extra precautions based on the condition of your bones. Modern medicine has simplified this, from just taking some additional calcium daily to getting periodic injections. 

Have you reached an age when you should schedule any of these preventative tests? Are you one of the millions who have skipped some? Then, now is the time to forge a healthier future through regular healthcare.

Nashville Healthcare Center can help. We provide a range of preventative services for any age, any risk factor, and any gender. We'll work with you to help ensure that small changes in your life or body don't become more significant problems. Call today to make an appointment.