Summary

18 items · 20–40 minutes to review and schedule

Why a Screening Checklist Matters

Preventive screenings are designed to detect potential health issues before symptoms appear — often when treatment is most effective. Yet many women are uncertain about which tests apply to them, at what age they start, and how frequently they should recur. This checklist provides a structured reference based on widely recognized public health guidelines, helping you identify which screenings may be due and which conversations to prioritize with your healthcare provider.

This content is general health information and education, not personalized medical advice. Your provider is the right person to determine which screenings are appropriate given your age, health history, and risk factors. For a broader look at cancer-specific tests, see our overview of commonly recommended cancer screenings.

Reproductive and Gynecologic Health

Schedule your first Pap smear (cervical cytology) at age 21, regardless of sexual activity history, and repeat every three years if results are normal. Must
Ask your provider about co-testing with an HPV test beginning at age 30; if both results are normal, retesting every five years is generally accepted. Must
Discuss screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including chlamydia and gonorrhea, particularly if you are sexually active and under age 25 or have new or multiple partners. Must
Talk to your provider about a pelvic exam schedule appropriate to your age and health history. Should

Breast Health

Discuss when to begin mammogram screening with your provider — major guidelines vary, with recommendations ranging from age 40 to 50 for average-risk women. Must
If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, ask about earlier or more frequent mammography, ultrasound, or MRI screening. Must
Inquire about BRCA1/BRCA2 genetic counseling or testing if close relatives have had breast, ovarian, or related cancers. Should

Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health

Have blood pressure measured at every routine healthcare visit; adults with normal readings generally benefit from checks at least every two years. Must
Get a fasting cholesterol (lipid panel) screening starting in your 20s or earlier if you have cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, smoking, or a family history of heart disease. Must
Discuss blood glucose or HbA1c screening for type 2 diabetes, typically recommended for adults age 35 and older, or earlier if overweight with additional risk factors. Must
Ask about thyroid function testing if you experience symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or irregular periods — guidelines vary, so clinical judgment applies. Should

Bone and Musculoskeletal Health

Begin bone density screening (DEXA scan) at age 65, or earlier if you have risk factors such as early menopause, low body weight, or long-term steroid use. Must
Discuss calcium and vitamin D status with your provider, especially after menopause, as part of bone health monitoring. Should

Colorectal and Digestive Health

Begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45 for average-risk adults; options include colonoscopy, stool-based tests, or other approved methods — discuss which is right for you. Must
Start colorectal screening earlier if you have a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease. Must

Mental Health and General Wellness

Complete a depression screening at routine visits using a validated tool; the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends this for all adults. Must
Ask about anxiety screening, which is now recommended for women under 65 by several major preventive health bodies. Should
Confirm that your vaccinations are up to date, including influenza, Tdap, shingles (age 50+), and any others relevant to your health history. Nice to have

Tools and Resources to Help You Stay Organized

Tracking multiple screenings across different intervals can be challenging. The following tools can help you manage appointments, store results, and stay informed.

Required

Personal Health Record Folder (physical or digital)

Store copies of screening results, dates, and provider notes to track your history across multiple care settings.

Required

Your Insurance Plan's Preventive Care Summary

Identify which screenings are covered at no cost under your plan, as preventive services are often fully covered under the ACA for eligible women.

Required

Family Health History Document

Record known conditions in first- and second-degree relatives to share with your provider, helping refine your personal screening schedule.

Optional

Patient Portal or Health App

Use your healthcare system's patient portal to review past lab results, request appointments, and set reminders for upcoming screenings.

If you've ever left a gynecology appointment with unanswered questions, you're not alone. Our guide on communicating effectively with your OB-GYN offers practical strategies to make the most of every visit.

Understanding Your Personal Risk Profile

Standard screening timelines are built for average-risk individuals, but personal circumstances can shift those recommendations meaningfully. Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, for instance, may be advised to begin mammograms or genetic counseling earlier than general guidelines suggest. Those with a history of abnormal Pap results may require more frequent cervical screenings.

High Risk Changes Everything

If you have a documented elevated risk for breast, ovarian, cervical, or colorectal cancer — based on genetics, family history, or prior diagnoses — standard population-level guidelines may not apply to you. Your provider may recommend starting screenings earlier, screening more frequently, or using different modalities entirely. Do not assume average-risk timelines are appropriate without discussing your personal history with a qualified clinician.

Lifestyle factors — including smoking history, body weight, physical activity level, and prior diagnoses — also influence when cardiovascular and metabolic screenings are recommended. This is why an annual well-woman visit is so valuable: it creates a consistent opportunity to reassess your risk profile and update your screening schedule accordingly.

For context on how screening priorities differ by sex, the men's annual screening reference guide covers comparable recommendations for male patients.

This article is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for guidance tailored to your individual health needs, symptoms, or medical history.

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The content on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.