5 Essential Health Screenings Every Woman Needs

Getting routine health screenings is an important part of staying healthy. Screenings can detect problems early, even when no symptoms are present, so you can get treatment as soon as possible and prevent future health problems. Some screenings can even help prevent the onset of certain conditions.

When you get certain screening tests depends on your age, medical history, and other personal risk factors. Talk to your doctor about when to get these five screenings that are essential for your health.

1. Breast Cancer Screening

According to the American College of Radiology, all women should get an annual mammogram starting at age 40. This imaging test can detect breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat.

“At Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County, we have state-of-the-art equipment and on-site radiologists who are there to read annual screenings as well as provide follow up care,” said Hannah Karsky, Radiology Technologist at MHSC. “Our team of friendly and compassionate technologists are dedicated to your breast wellness and care.”

MHSC offers the latest 3D mammogram technology, as well as the SmartCurve Breast Stabilization System.

“We understand that everyone’s needs are unique,” said Jerika Brown, Radiology Technologist at MHSC. “This innovative tool helps reduce pinching by applying uniform compression that molds to your breast shape, providing a more comfortable experience.”

In addition, MHSC offers the mammography chair so people with mobility or stability concerns can remain seated for comfort during their mammogram.

Talk to your women’s health provider to get your mammogram order and then call 307-352-8187 to schedule your appointment.

2. Cervical Cancer Screening

Starting at age 21, you should have a Pap test to screen for cervical cancer every three years. This test looks for abnormal cervical cells. At age 30, you can continue Pap tests every three years or choose to have a human papillomavirus (HPV) test every five years. This test looks for high-risk types of HPV, a sexually transmitted disease that causes almost all cases of cervical cancer.

Another option is co-testing, which means having both tests at the same time. This can be done every five years as well. Talk to your provider about which option is best for you.

3. Colorectal Cancer Screening

If you are between ages 45 and 75, you should get regular screenings for colorectal cancer. If you have certain risk factors, such as a family history of colorectal cancer, your doctor may recommend beginning screening at an earlier age.

Doctors consider colonoscopy the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. Not only does it detect 95% of all colorectal cancers, but it can identify and remove precancerous polyps at the same time, helping to prevent cancer. If you have normal results, you can wait 10 years before your next colonoscopy. Your doctor may recommend screening more often if you are at higher risk.

Other tests are also available, including stool-based tests and flexible sigmoidoscopy. You must repeat these tests more frequently, and they are not as accurate as colonoscopy.

4. Bone Density Scan

Doctors recommend that women 65 and older have a bone density scan. At this age, women are at higher risk for fractures due to loss of bone density. A bone density scan test can diagnose osteoporosis — which causes weak and brittle bones — and osteopenia, or low bone density. Bone density scans can also predict your future fracture risk.

If you have certain risk factors, such as a family history of osteoporosis or a low body weight, your doctor may suggest having a bone density scan at a younger age.

5. Heart Health Screenings

Two simple screenings can help you be more aware of your risk for heart disease and stroke. All women should have their blood pressure checked regularly, at least once every two years for women ages 18 to 39 and then annually starting at age 40.

You should also begin getting blood tests to check cholesterol levels at age 20, according to the American Heart Association. If your test results are normal, you can wait four to six years before screening again. However, annual health and wellness screenings are recommended.

Your doctor may recommend beginning blood pressure and cholesterol screenings more often or at an earlier age if you have certain risk factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease.

Find a Women’s Health provider for your health screenings. Find a provider online.