Women's Health
May 8, 2025
At each stage of a woman's development and maturation, from your teens through your golden years, it’s essential to make your health a priority. This means regular checkups and staying up to date with recommended screening tests.
At any age you can see your OBGYN to discuss birth control, genetic cancer risks, screening for blood pressure or osteoporosis, healthy eating and exercise, menstrual concerns, and mental health screenings on top of the following age recommended screenings;
Cervical cancer/Pap smear testing
o This begins at age 21, regardless of when you had sex. A pap smear, or collection of cervical cells without HPV testing is done every 3 years from age 21-29.
o From age 29-65 a pap smear with HPV testing is done either every 3 years or 5 years.
o The frequency of this testing as well as when to stop testing depends on history and individual results
o Even women with hysterectomies may still need pap smears
Routine pelvic exams
o These are done starting at 21 for possible early detection of cancer or infections, detection of other changes to skin in the pelvic area, for a better understanding of your body and reassurance about your sexual and reproductive health.
Screening mammograms
o If at average risk patient begin yearly screening mammograms from age 40-75.
o Clinical breast exams are done yearly beginning at 21.
STI screening
o Screening for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea is recommended yearly for all sexually active women under 25. For women above 25 it is recommended for those at increased risk.
While these are general recommendations it is important to talk with your provider about your specific age-appropriate screenings. You can contact Witham OBGYN at 765-485-8444 to schedule an appointment today where we provide compassionate care for every woman, at every stage of life.