Health Screenings for Women

As a woman, taking your health seriously is of the utmost importance. One way to do 
this is to get routine screenings that look at various aspects of your health, from your 
blood pressure and cholesterol, to your stamina and physical health. Here are some of 
the more important health screenings women need to get. 

Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

These are two simple screenings that everyone should get done regularly, including if 
you are a woman. In fact, women often have a higher risk for heart disease and other 
cardiovascular conditions, so you should start these tests around age 18-20. Your 
doctor may request to perform the test each year if you are at a high risk, or do them 
every few years when you go in for routine bloodwork. Both blood pressure and 
cholesterol can affect your heart health and overall health, so don’t skip this one.

Breast Screenings

As a woman, one of the most risky cancers for you is breast cancer. While men can get 
breast cancer, most people who get this type of cancer are women. You should get 
various types of breast screenings to look for signs of cancer. The first is a basic type of 
breast exam, where the doctor or nurse will look for signs of bumps or lumps on your 
breast, including examining your armpits and areolas for irregular patterns or colors. 
You should also get a mammogram each year starting between 40 and 50 years old, 
according to your doctor’s guidelines.

Osteoporosis Screenings

One of the more common medical conditions women need to be careful about is 
osteoporosis. This is when you lose some of your bone density, which can easily 
happen with women as they age. You need to focus on diet and nutrition, as well as 
proper exercise to help prevent osteoporosis. You can also get early treatment by 
getting osteoporosis screenings periodically. This often includes getting a bone density 
scan, then following that up with x-rays of your bones.

Blood Glucose Tests

Finally, as a woman you might be at risk for diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can occur at any 
time during your life, whether you are at a high risk for it or not. It is important to get 
routine bloodwork, including checking your blood glucose levels, so you know whether 
or not you are pre-diabetes or if you already have diabetes now and need to get it 
treated.

