When Should Women Start Their Health Screenings

When to Start

Test

Frequency

Reason

18

Blood pressure test

Every 2 years at least (more often if you have a medical condition)

The ideal blood pressure for women is less than 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension or hypotension can lead to cardiovascular diseases, strokes and kidney failure.

Skin exam

Monthly

Women should regularly inspect their skin and take note of unusual moles. Inform a doctor or dermatologist if there are any, as it might be an early sign of skin cancer.

20

Clinical breast exam

Every 3 years for women in 20s and 30s.

Every year for women 40 and over.

This detects potential development of breast cancer at an early stage.

21

Pelvic exam

Every year

This identifies possible cervical cancer.

Pap smear

Every 3-5 years

30

HPV test

Every 3-5 years

A joint HPV test and Pap smear has been proven to be more effective at detecting HPV infections and cervical cancer, compared to just doing the Pap test alone.

35

Cholesterol screening

Every 5 years (earlier for women with higher risk factors)

High cholesterol puts you at higher risk of heart attack and stroke.

40

Mammogram

Every 1–2 years

This identifies early signs of breast cancer.

45

Blood glucose test

Every 3 years

High blood glucose levels indicate higher risk of diabetes.

50

Colonoscopy

Every 10 years

These colon screenings check for possible colorectal cancer.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy

Every 5 years

Fecal occult blood test

Every year

Rectal exam

Every 5 – 10 years

This detects colon cancer at an early stage.

65

Bone mineral density test

At least once

This identifies osteoporosis and bone loss. Women with higher risk factors, such as fractures in the past or smaller frame, should start earlier.

When sexually active

Chlamydia test

Every year

This prevents the spread of chlamydia.

Sexually transmitted disease (STD) screening

Before starting sexual activity

For women and their partners, getting checked early prevents the spread of STDs including HIV.