Your Complete Women's Health Checklist

Mother, daughter, sister, wife, friend, employee, caretaker. Women wear many hats and juggle a daunting list of to-dos. All too often their own healthcare needs are pushed to the bottom of that list as they focus on caring for others.

Unfortunately, it isn’t until a major illness or injury interferes with day-to-day life that most women stop and take a moment to care for themselves.

If this describes you, or someone you love, it is time to get your health in check.

Women’s Health Checklist

Heart Health

Heart disease is the number one killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths every year. Early diagnosis is essential for the detection and prevention of heart disease.

• Blood Pressure Check: At least every 2 years starting at age 20.
• Cholesterol Screening: Every 4-6 years starting at age 20.
• Blood Glucose Test: Starting at age 45, and every 3 years after that. Screenings may begin earlier if you are at risk for diabetes.

Lung Health

A constant cough can easily be passed off as just a tickle but can lead to severe infection when left untreated.

• Chest X-Ray: Starting at age 50. Screenings may begin earlier, especially if you currently smoke or have quit in the past 15 years.

Well-Woman Visits

Scheduling annual well-woman visits allows your provider to get to know your medical history, health concerns and goals. Most importantly, routine tests performed at well visit appointments can detect issues before they become major health concerns.

• Annual Wellness Exam: Every year to ensure you are up to date with vaccinations and health screenings.
• Mental Health: Talk with your doctor about any mental or emotional concerns you have such as anxiety, depression, addiction, or eating disorders.

Cancer Screenings

Breast cancer screenings can help diagnose cancer at an early stage when it can be easier to treat.

• Mammograms: Starting at age 40-45. After age 55, you should get a mammogram at least every 2 years.
• Colonoscopy: Starting at age 50 and then every 10 years. Screenings may begin earlier if you have a family history of colorectal cancer.
• Cervical Cancer Screening: Every 3 years starting at age 20.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test: Every 5 years at age 30-65.
• Pap Test: Every 3 years at age 30-65. Women aged 65 can stop screenings after having 3 or more normal Pap tests in a row or no abnormal results in 10 years.

Bone Health

Osteoporosis is more common in women because their bones are often smaller, thinner, and less dense than men. Low estrogen levels after menopause also contribute to bone loss.

Bone Density Test: Every 2-3 years starting at age 65. Screenings may begin earlier if you have certain risk factors, such as family history, low body weight, smoking or thyroid disease.

Stay Active: Just like your muscles, the tissue in your bones becomes stronger with regular physical activity.

Riverview Women’s Care at Henry County Hospital is here to help you make your health a priority. Call 419.599.0055 to schedule an appointment today.