Physical Wellness

How To Start Regular Woman's Body Check?

By Sara Gale | Update Date: Apr 26, 2016 04:20 AM EDT

Women might have to start regular check-ups as early as 18 for most diseases since early diagnosis would help in better intervention of the diseases. It is advisable for women to get appropriate guidance from their doctors regarding the tests they need to take up as well as verify whether or not their insurance plans cover the tests.

While it is already said that women need to take their doctor's advice regarding the tests, it is necessary for every woman to know when to approach the doctor for guidance. As far as blood pressure test is concerned women of all the age groups, say, 18-39, 40-49, 50-64, 65 and above should test their pressure levels every two years if it is lower than 120/80, once a year if it is between 120/80 and 139/89 and discuss with doctor for treatment if it is 140/90 or higher.

Bone mineral density test for osteoporosis screening should be done at least once by women aged 65 and above. Women aged between 50 and 64 should discuss with their doctors if they are at the risk of osteoporosis, according to womenshealth.gov.

Mammogram for breast cancer screening should be taken at least every two years by women aged between 50 and 64 as well as 65 or older. Women aged between 40 and 49 should discuss with their doctors whether they are in need of mammogram.

Pap test for cervical cancer needs to be done every three years by women starting as early as 21 until 30. After 30 years woman should take Pap test and HPV test every five years. Woman should appear for colorectal cancer screening test at 50 years and above and also discuss with the doctor for the screening test most applicable for them prior to the test.

Cholesterol test should be done regularly in women at increased risk for heart disease starting as early as 20 years. Diabetes screening should also be done by women of all age groups if the blood pressure is higher than 135/80 or if one is under medication for high blood pressure.

Chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis tests should be taken by sexually active women at increased risk of the diseases or if you are pregnant. As far as HIV test is concerned, all pregnant women should take up the test while others can discuss with the doctor about the risk of the disease, if need be.

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