Preserving Health As A Woman
Preventative measures and health screenings are recommended where health is concerned. For example, a yearly physical can alert a patient and physician to concerns such as elevated blood pressure or glucose levels. Such warnings allow for an effective treatment and management plan to be created that yields results and preserves not just health but also quality of life. Similarly, some preventative exams are gender-specific and should be implemented at certain stages in a woman’s life.

Pelvic exams
Of all the exams a woman will undergo, pelvic exams are usually the most commonplace. These exams begin when an individual is around 21 years old but may begin earlier if underlying issues such as irregular periods or unusual vaginal discharge are present. The procedure checks that reproductive organs are functioning properly and can also include cervical cancer screenings.
Mammograms
Even though women should engage in self-breast exams to check for lumps, a mammogram is a visual diagnostic that relies on X-ray or MRI to screen for potentially cancerous lumps. Typically, an individual will not be required to undergo the annual procedure until age 45. However, people with a family history of breast cancer may be encouraged to have the test performed earlier as a preventive measure.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Pap smears are specific tests that take a tissue sample to screen for diseases that specifically impact a woman’s reproductive organs. The test is usually recommended to be performed every three years between ages 20 to 29. The process may also include a screening for human papillomavirus (HPV).
Colonoscopies
Colonoscopies are recommended for all genders, however the screening is usually reserved for middle-age or older individuals and checks for potential colon cancer. Specifically, women are encouraged to undergo the diagnostic test at age 45 or older. However, a person only needs to have a colonoscopy done every 10 years if the initial test results are normal. People that have abnormal results may require more frequent testing.
Bone density tests
Technically, any person can suffer from bone density loss. However, women are more predisposed to experience loss than men. Usually, around age 65, a woman is encouraged to take the test. Individuals who have already suffered bone damage such as a fracture, have a history of osteoporosis or fractures in the family, have low body weight, or have a history of heavy smoking or drinking are urged to have a bone density performed.
Routine exams for all genders
Women are also urged to have other screenings performed for conditions that impact all people. In particular, tests for blood pressure, insulin, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) should be performed regardless of gender. Thankfully, scheduling any of the above exams does not require much effort. Simply requesting a wellness exam with a general practitioner or a routine screening with a gynecologist or obstetrician-gynecologist (OBGYN) can keep a woman on track for preserving and protecting health.