Preventive screenings are one of the most powerful tools in women’s healthcare. These routine tests and evaluations help detect potential health problems early—often before symptoms appear—giving women a better chance of successful treatment, longer life, and improved well-being.
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At North Dallas Women’s Care, we believe that preventive care is essential to lifelong wellness. Whether you're in your 20s or beyond menopause, understanding the right screenings for your age and risk level empowers you to take control of your health.
Here’s your complete guide to the most important preventive screenings for women, organized by life stage.
Why Preventive Screenings Matter
Preventive screenings help with:
- Early detection of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart conditions
- Monitoring reproductive health and hormonal changes
- Identifying risk factors before they become major health problems
- Improving health outcomes and reducing long-term healthcare costs
Key Women’s Health Screenings by Age Group
In Your 20s and 30s
- Pap Smear (every 3 years or every 5 years with HPV test):
Screens for cervical cancer caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
- HPV Test:
Often combined with Pap testing to detect high-risk HPV strains.
- Pelvic Exam (yearly or as needed):
Checks for abnormalities in reproductive organs and screens for infections.
- Breast Exam (clinical, yearly):
Performed by your doctor to detect lumps or changes in breast tissue.
- Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Screening:
Especially important for sexually active women. Includes tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV.
- Skin Check:
If you have risk factors like family history or sun exposure, start getting checked for unusual moles or skin changes.
- Mental Health Screening:
Depression and anxiety are common in young women and should be openly discussed with your provider.
In Your 40s
- Continue Pap Smear + HPV screenings
- Mammogram (starting at age 40):
Annual or biennial screening for breast cancer, depending on risk.
- Thyroid Function Test:
Evaluates thyroid hormone levels, especially if you experience fatigue, weight changes, or mood swings.
- Cholesterol and Blood Pressure Screening:
To assess heart disease risk.
- Diabetes Screening:
Especially if overweight, have a family history, or gestational diabetes in previous pregnancy.
- Colorectal Cancer Screening (start at age 45):
Includes colonoscopy or stool-based tests.
In Your 50s and Beyond
- Mammograms:
Continue annually or as advised by your doctor.
- Bone Density Scan (DEXA):
Recommended for women 65+ or younger women with risk factors to screen for osteoporosis.
- Colonoscopy:
Repeat every 10 years, or more often based on risk or findings.
- Lipid Panel:
Checks cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
- Vision and Hearing Exams:
Annual screenings recommended.
- Cognitive Health Screening:
As part of aging well, providers may evaluate memory and cognitive function.
Additional Screenings Based on Risk
Depending on personal or family medical history, your doctor may recommend:
- BRCA gene testing (if there's a family history of breast or ovarian cancer)
- Liver function tests
- HIV and Hepatitis C (one-time test or more often based on risk)
- Diabetes screening during pregnancy (gestational diabetes)
How to Stay On Top of Preventive Care
- Schedule annual well-woman exams
This visit is your opportunity to review your health, get screened, and ask questions.
- Track your screenings
Keep a health journal or use digital tools to note when tests were done and when they’re due.
- Talk to your provider
Customize your screening schedule based on age, family history, and lifestyle.
- Know your numbers
Understand your blood pressure, cholesterol, BMI, and glucose levels.
Why Choose North Dallas Women’s Care
At North Dallas Women’s Care, we take a proactive approach to women’s health. Our comprehensive preventive screenings are designed to empower you with knowledge, detect concerns early, and provide you with the personalized care you deserve. We’re here to help you feel confident, healthy, and supported at every life stage.
Conclusion
Preventive screenings aren’t just for when you feel sick—they’re for staying well. By making routine screenings a part of your health journey, you take an important step in protecting your future. Don’t wait for symptoms. Be proactive. Schedule your preventive visit with North Dallas Women’s Care today.
Dr. Surekha Machupalli M.D. FACOG North Dallas Women's Care PA
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8901 Independence Pkwy,Plano, TX 75025,United States
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+19729082444