Women's Health

It’s easy to skip visits to the doctor when life gets busy. Regular health screenings and preventive care can help you stay healthy and catch problems early. Knowing what tests you need helps you take charge of your health at every stage of life. 

Taking care of your body starts with routine screenings. These tests can help detect issues early when they may be easier to treat. 

Breast self-exams: Monthly breast self-exams can be a supplement to your regular mammograms. Pay attention to what your breasts look and feel like and learn how to perform a breast self-exam. Talk with your doctor if you notice any changes.

Mammogram: This test is an X-ray. It’s recommended to be screened every two years for women starting at age 40. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors and which timeline is best for you.

Pap and HPV: A Pap test checks for abnormal cells in your cervix, which could lead to cervical cancer. Your doctor will swab your cervix to get a sample of cells. Women ages 21 to 29 should get a Pap test once every three years. Women ages 30 to 65 can choose to have a Pap test every three years, an HPV test once every five years, or a Pap test and an HPV test once every five years. Women older than 65 who have had normal screenings don’t need to be screened. Some health issues affect certain groups more than others. You’re at higher risk for cervical cancer if you’re Native American, Alaska Native, Hispanic or Black, according to the American Cancer Society.  

Blood glucose test: This test checks the amount of sugar in your blood. It can detect Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. It’s recommended to get tested at age 35. The blood test can be done as a finger poke or blood draw.

Blood pressure screening: This screening checks for high blood pressure. The test uses a cuff on your arm. Your blood pressure should be checked at least every two years, beginning at age 18.

Cholesterol: This screening checks your total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. High cholesterol can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor will take a blood sample for this test. You should have a cholesterol screening every four to six years, beginning at age 18.

Chronic kidney disease: This screening checks how well your kidneys are working. The tests include blood and urine samples. You should get screened if you’re over 60 years old, have Type 2 diabetes or other major risk factors. Risk factors include high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity or a family history of kidney failure. You’re also at higher risk if you’re Black, Hispanic, Native American, Asian or a Pacific Islander, according to the National Kidney Foundation.

Colonoscopy: This procedure allows your doctor to look inside your rectum and colon. A scope with a light and tiny camera is used. Your doctor will look for polyps, inflammation and signs of colorectal cancer. You can get your first colonoscopy at age 45. If you’re at high risk, your doctor may recommend testing earlier. Talk with your doctor about how to prepare for a colonoscopy.

Sexually transmitted infections: Testing for sexually transmitted infections helps protect your sexual health and prevent other complications. Talk to your doctor about which STI screenings you may need if you’re sexually active. You’ll also need STI tests during pregnancy to help prevent complications for you and your baby. Tests may include urine or blood samples, swabs or physical exams.

Vaccines can prevent serious diseases and are provided at no cost for Blue Cross Complete members.

HPV vaccine: This vaccine protects against cancers caused by the human papillomavirus. The prevention schedule recommends that children receive the HPV vaccine series between ages 11 and 12, but men and women are eligible between the ages of 9 and 26. Some older adults may also be eligible.

Other routine vaccines: Talk to your provider about which vaccines you may need. Some vaccines, like the flu shot, should be given every year. 

Our Guidelines to Good Health for Adults provides an overview of screenings and exams for women. Preventive services are provided at no cost to you and can detect or help prevent health problems. Talk to your doctor about which tests are right for you and schedule your appointments before problems start. Scheduling regular visits is important, even if you’re feeling healthy. It helps build a relationship with your doctor and makes it easier for them to notice changes in your health.