What is women's health?
Women's health is the area of medicine that focuses on the medical issues and diseases that affect women or are more likely to affect women at different stages of life. Women's health needs are far different than the health needs of men, especially as they get older. By focusing on those unique needs, women's health services help ensure every woman at every age gets the care and treatment that's most appropriate for her based on her specific risk factors.
What happens during a women's health exam?
Women's health exams include many of the same evaluations as a “regular” physical exam, but with an emphasis on the issues most likely to affect women. In addition to weight and blood pressure measurements, heart and lung evaluations, and visual exams of the ears and throat, a woman's health exam may also include a clinical breast exam, a pelvic exam and screenings based on the evolving needs of women as they get older. You'll also receive guidance that can help ensure you stay as healthy as possible during different stages of life, including the menopausal years when hormonal decline can cause your risk of some diseases to increase.
What kinds of medical tests and screenings should I have?
In addition to routine blood pressure measurements at every exam (at least annually), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends women have these screenings:
- Cholesterol screening with a baseline test at age 20
- Pap test for cervical cancer performed every three to five years, along with an HPV test (human papillomavirus)
- Clinical breast exam with each annual physical
- Mammograms and colorectal cancer screening beginning at age 50
- Bone density testing beginning at age 65
- Blood sugar test for women with high blood pressure
Some screenings will need to be performed more frequently or at an earlier age if you have certain risk factors.
