A Health Checklist for Women of All Ages

It’s always important to have regular check ins with your doctor, even when you’re healthy. And for women especially, there are a few extra things to pay attention to that will help you avoid future problems. Follow the recommended guidelines below to keep your health in check!

Ages 18 to 39
In your day-to-day life, these small steps can help maintain a healthy lifestyle:

• Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity
• Aim for at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep
• Reach and maintain a healthy weight
• Limit alcohol to one drink a day or less
• Quit or don’t start smoking
• Consider a folic acid supplement

Protect yourself from infection with regular vaccinations:

• Flu shot, every year
• Tetanus booster, every 10 years
• HPV vaccine (if under 26)

Prevent disease with regular screenings:

• Blood pressure, every 3 to 5 years
• Cholesterol, as recommended
• Pap smear, every 3 years starting at 21, or Pap smear with HPV testing every 5 years for women 30 to 65
• Sexually transmitted diseases, every year

Age 40 and Beyond
Similar to above, take these small steps to stay healthy:

• Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity
• Aim for at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep
• Reach and maintain a healthy weight
• Limit alcohol to one drink a day or less
• Quit or don’t start smoking

Vaccinations change as you get older. Protect yourself with these recommendations:

• Flu shot, every year
• Pneumonia, if doctor recommended
• Tetanus booster, every 10 years
• Shingles or herpes zoster, after age 60

Regular screenings can help prevent or detect conditions early, including:

• Blood pressure, every year
• Cholesterol, as recommended
• Diabetes, every 3 years
• Colon cancer, as recommended
• Mammogram, every 1 to 2 years or as recommended
• Bone density test, after age 50
• Pap smear, every 3 years or Pap smear with HPV testing every 5 years
• Lung cancer, every year or as recommended (for adults with a history of smoking)

In addition to the above, here are a few topics to cover with your provider:

• Birth control options
• Diet, weight and activity level
• Tobacco and/or alcohol use
• Any violence in your life
• Mental health concerns
• Family health history, especially cancer

Article source link has expired