Most women in their 20s and 30s are very busy, with a career, a family, a home, pets, or all of these things at once! It’s easy to forget recommended health screenings when busy and relatively healthy. However, health screenings do more than fix health problems.

A typical screening for a woman in her 20s and 30s may include:

  • a check for hidden medical issues
  • vaccine update
  • a check for future medical problems for which she is at risk
  • encouragement in making healthy lifestyle choices

In addition, regular health screenings create a relationship between patient and doctor, which may be helpful in future medical emergencies.

Specific things women in their 20s and 30s should be screened for:

  • Cholesterol. Women with normal cholesterol levels only need to repeat this screening every five years. Women with conditions like diabetes and kidney problems may need this screening more often.
  • Blood pressure. Get this checked every 3 to 5 years. However, if the top number is between 120-139 or the bottom number is between 80-89, then get your blood pressure checked once a year. If the top number is higher than 140 or the bottom number is higher than 90, see a doctor.
  • Diabetes. Often, if you have a higher blood pressure reading, you will also get your blood sugar levels tested for diabetes.
  • Immunizations. This is a good time to get your immunizations updated, such as tetanus, flu shot, and varicella vaccine.
  • Pelvic exam and pap smear. Women in their 20s and 30s should have a pelvic exam and pap smear at least every three years to check for cervical cancer.
  • Breast exam. Although mammograms are not generally recommended for women under 40, your doctor may do a clinical breast exam to check for breast cancer.
  • Eye exam. Women with vision problems should have an eye exam at least every two years.
  • Dental exam. Go to the dentist for a dental exam once or twice a year.
  • Physical exam. Women will get weighed, have their height measured, and have their BMI checked. This will likely occur in conjunction with one of the other health screenings.
  • Other issues, such as depression, alcohol and tobacco use, and diet and exercise, may be covered during a routine health screening.

Women in this age group should not forget to schedule health screenings! Even if they are feeling well, a simple routine test may uncover a hidden medical issue. Catching problems early is much better than waiting until the problem is worse.

Our team at New River Women’s Health provides expert care in the areas of gynecology and gynecological surgery. We are here for every stage of your life and health. Request an appointment online or contact us today at 540-605-7566