As moms, we are meticulous about making sure that our children make it to every wellness screening but sometimes overlook taking care of ourselves. Regular health screenings can be key to your overall health and vital if you do actually have a condition that needs treatment. How often do you make the appointments necessary to maintain your health? Here is a list of appointments you should make and keep no matter how “good” you feel.
Overall wellness check- annually
During this visit, your doctor should check blood pressure and weight as well as talk with you about any concerns you have — physical or mental. This annual general appointment should serve as an opportunity for you to ensure you are living a healthy lifestyle.
Dental exam- every 6 months
Going to regular checkups every six months will help keep gums and teeth healthy, as well as detect any early problems such as gum disease, oral cancer and cavities.
Eye exam- every 2 years
Every two years until age 61, according to the American Optometric Association. After age 61, an annual exam is recommended for those who are not experiencing any specific problems.
Dermatology exam- annually
Skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer, so don’t skip this one even if you think your skin is fine. If you have never received a skin cancer screening, American Academy of Dermatology members offer free screenings across the United States.
Diabetes- annually
According to the American Diabetes Association, if you are overweight and age 45 or older, you should be checked for prediabetes during your next routine medical visit. If your weight is normal and you’re over age 45, ask your doctor during a routine office visit if testing is appropriate.
Mammogram- every 2 years
According to the National Cancer Institute, women 40 years and older should have a mammogram every two years. If you have a history of breast cancer in your family, your doctor may recommend them before age 40.
Cholesterol test- every 5 years
The American Heart Association recommends that all adults age 20 or older should get their total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol and triglycerides checked once every five years.
Bone-density exam- varies
Women older than 65 years of age should be tested for bone density. Talk with your doctor if you are younger than 65 and have risk factors for osteoporosis.
Cervical cancer exam- varies
Although it depends on your age and health history, most women can follow these guidelines from the National Cancer Institute- starting at age 21, every two years. If you are 30 years old and older and have had three normal Pap tests for three years in a row, talk to your doctor about doing a Pap test every three years.
Colorectal exam- varies
Women should talk with a doctor or health care provider about when to begin screening for colorectal cancer and how often to schedule appointments.
