Women's Guide To Health Tests and Screenings
Click here for Common Health Concerns of Women
Click here for Men's Guide to Health Tests
Blood Pressure
Purpose
To detect hypertension - a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Age
21+
How Often To Be Tested
Annually; more frequently if over 140/90.
Breast Self - Exam
Purpose
To detect changes in breast tissue or appearance.
Age
20+
How Often To Be Tested
Monthly; 7-10 days after onset of period (If post - menopausal; first day of every month).
To learn how to perform a breast self-exam click here
Cholesterol Test
Purpose
To check if cholesterol content of blood is too high - a major factor in heart disease.
Age
45+
How Often To Be Tested
Every 5 years or as directed by physician.
Click here to learn more about:
Fat and Cholesterol
Colorectal Exam
Purpose
To detect signs of colorectal cancer which is highly treatable with early detection.
Age
50+
How Often To Be Tested
Fecal Occult Blood Test annually and Flexible Sigmoidoscopy with Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) every 5 years OR Colonoscopy and DRE every 10 years OR Double - Contrast Barium Enema and DRE every 5-10 years.
For more information, see:
Screen for Life - National Colorectal Cancer Action Campaign
Electrocardiogram
Purpose
To test heart function.
Age
18+
How Often To Be Tested
As directed by physician.
Mammogram
Purpose
To detect changes in breast tissue that are too small to be felt.
Age
40+
How Often To Be Tested
Annually.
Pap Smear
Purpose
To detect cervical abnormalities, including cancer.
Age
18+
How Often To Be Tested
Annually or as directed by physician.
Pelvic Exam
Purpose
To detect uterine abnormalities, including cancer.
Age
18+
How Often To Be Tested
Annually.
Professional Breast Exam
Purpose
To detect changes in the breast that could go unnoticed by you.
Age
20-39, 40+
How Often To Be Tested
Every 3 years (If 40+; Annually).
Routine Physical Exam
Purpose
To maintain health and catch problems early.
Age
18+
How Often To Be Tested
As directed by physician.
Source: Women's Health Schedule - Southeast Alabama Medical Center.
