May is Women’s Health Month — a time dedicated to raising awareness about the unique health needs of women and encouraging proactive, preventive care. At The Center for Women’s Health in Newport News, Virginia, we believe that knowledge is one of the most powerful tools a woman can have when it comes to her own health. Whether you’re in your teens, 30s, or post-menopause, staying ahead of potential health issues with routine screenings and checkups can make all the difference.
So, what does preventive care actually look like? Here’s a practical checklist to guide women at every stage of life.
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The Center for Women’s Health Care Patient Review
Annual Well-Woman Visits
Your yearly well-woman exam is the foundation of preventive gynecological care. During this visit, your provider will review your personal and family medical history, perform a physical exam, discuss any symptoms or concerns you’ve been experiencing, and talk through your reproductive health goals. It’s also a great opportunity to ask questions you might have been putting off. Think of it as your annual health reset.
Pap Smears and Cervical Cancer Screenings
Cervical cancer is largely preventable with regular screening. Current guidelines recommend that women begin Pap smears at age 21 and continue every three years through age 65 (or every five years when combined with an HPV test). If you’ve had an abnormal result in the past, your provider may recommend more frequent screenings. Don’t skip these — catching cervical cell changes early is key to preventing cancer.
STD Screenings
Sexually transmitted infections don’t always cause noticeable symptoms, which is why routine screening matters. Women who are sexually active should talk with their provider about which screenings are appropriate for them based on their age, risk factors, and health history.
Breast Exams and Mammograms
Breast health is an important part of every woman’s preventive care plan. Clinical breast exams are typically performed during your well-woman visit. Mammography screening recommendations vary based on age and family history — your provider will help you determine the right schedule for you.
Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, and Blood Sugar
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, yet it’s often under-recognized as a women’s health issue. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar can catch warning signs early. Women with a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or who are in menopause are at higher risk and should be particularly vigilant.
Bone Density Testing
Osteoporosis disproportionately affects women, especially after menopause when estrogen levels decline. A bone density scan (DEXA scan) is typically recommended for women over 65 or younger women with risk factors such as a family history of osteoporosis, low body weight, or long-term steroid use.
Vaccinations
Vaccines aren’t just for kids. Adult women should stay current on the flu vaccine, the Tdap booster, COVID-19 vaccines, and — for women up to age 45 — the HPV vaccine, which protects against the strains of human papillomavirus most commonly linked to cervical cancer.
Mental Health Check-Ins
Preventive care extends beyond the physical. May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to check in with yourself emotionally. Hormonal fluctuations, postpartum changes, perimenopause, and life stressors can all affect mental well-being. Don’t hesitate to bring up anxiety, depression, or mood changes with your provider — these conversations matter.
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The Center for Women’s Health Care Patient Review
Making Preventive Care a Priority
We understand that life gets busy, and scheduling healthcare appointments for yourself can feel like one more thing on an already full plate. But investing in your health today can prevent more serious — and often more disruptive — health issues down the road.
This Women’s Health Month, we encourage every woman to schedule her annual well-woman visit if she hasn’t already. The Center for Women’s Health is accepting new patients and offers comprehensive gynecological and obstetric care for women of all ages. Our compassionate team is here to partner with you every step of the way.
Call us today at (757) 874-2229 or visit centerforwomen.com to book your appointment.