Health Screenings Every Woman Should Know About
Your Guide to Staying Healthy at Every Stage of Life
Staying on top of your health doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. One of the simplest and most powerful ways to protect your long-term well-being is through routine women’s health screenings. These tests help detect potential issues early—often before symptoms appear—so you can make informed decisions about your care.
As your primary care provider, we focus on compassionate, patient-centered preventive care for women of all ages. Below is a helpful guide to the screenings every woman should be aware of, along with when they’re recommended and what to expect.
Annual Wellness Exam
Your annual exam is the foundation of women’s health. During this visit, your nurse practitioner reviews your medical history, monitors vital signs, evaluates lifestyle habits, and discusses any concerns you may have.
This appointment helps us build a long-term relationship with you, allowing us to personalize your care and spot changes early.
Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Smear + HPV Test)
Cervical cancer is highly preventable with routine screening. These screenings look for abnormal cell changes and the presence of high-risk HPV strains. Most women find the test quick and minimally uncomfortable. It is recommended that women ages 21-29 should have a Pap test every 3 years. Women ages 30-65 should have a Pap + HPV co-test every 5 years (or Pap test alone every 3 years).
Breast Cancer Screening: Clinical Breast Exam & Mammograms
Early detection saves lives, and routine breast cancer screening is essential. Most women begin mammograms between ages 40–50, depending on personal risk factors. If you have a family history of breast cancer or genetic concerns, your NP may recommend earlier screenings or additional imaging.
Reproductive & Hormonal Health Screenings
Women’s reproductive health changes throughout life, and screenings help ensure everything is functioning as it should. These discussions are always confidential and tailored to your comfort level.
These may include:
Menstrual health evaluations
STI testing
Hormone panels for irregular periods, PMS/PMDD, low energy, or perimenopause
Fertility or preconception counseling if you’re planning to expand your family
Heart Health & Cardiovascular Screenings
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women—yet many don’t realize that symptoms can look different than in men. Routine screenings such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol testing, diabetes and glucose screening can help catch risk factors early. Women with family history, stress-related concerns, or metabolic conditions may benefit from more frequent monitoring.
Bone Density Screening (DEXA Scan)
Bone health often gets overlooked, but osteoporosis affects millions of women—especially after menopause. A DEXA scan is a quick, painless test that measures bone strength and helps determine your risk for fractures. It is recommended that all women 65+ and younger women with risk factors (including early menopause, low body weight, smoking history, long-term steroid use, or family history).
Diabetes Screening
Screening for type 2 diabetes is especially important for women with a family history, PCOS, weight changes, or symptoms like fatigue or increased thirst. Testing usually begins around age 35, but may be recommended earlier based on your risk factors.
Thyroid Function Screening
Thyroid disorders are common in women and can contribute to symptoms such as hair thinning, weight changes, anxiety, low energy, and brain fog. Your NP can order simple bloodwork to check thyroid hormone levels and discuss treatment options if needed.
Mental Health Screenings
Screenings for anxiety, depression, postpartum mood disorders, and burnout are an essential part of women’s healthcare. Many women juggle careers, family responsibilities, and the pressures of daily life—and emotional wellness matters. Our office provides a safe, judgment-free space to discuss stress, mood changes, or mental health concerns.
Lifestyle & Preventive Wellness Screenings
Preventive care is about more than labs and imaging. We also evaluate:
Nutrition and weight trends
Smoking and alcohol habits
Preventive wellness planning
Together, we help you build healthy habits that support your long-term wellness.
Why Choose a Nurse Practitioner for Women’s Health?
Our nurse practitioner–led model allows us to spend more time listening, educating, and building trust with our patients. We take a whole-person approach, focusing not just on your health concerns but your lifestyle, goals, and long-term well-being. You’ll receive high-quality, personalized care close to home—from a team that truly understands and supports your needs.
Whether you’re due for your annual exam or unsure which screenings you may need, we’re here to help our those in our Norwood community and beyond. Schedule an appointment and take the next step toward a healthier, more empowered you.
