Well-woman visit

A well-woman visit is a once-a-year doctor visit that women of all ages should get that focuses on your overall health and wellness.  Your well-woman visit will be personalized to your age, family history, past health history, and the need for any screenings. It is also a great chance to ask your health care provider any questions.

These lists show the suggested health screenings by age. If you have questions, talk to your provider.

Ages 18 to 39

  • Blood pressure should be taken at every medical visit.
    • Discuss treatment with your provider if your blood pressure is 140/90 or higher.
  • Get a Pap test every 3 years if you are 21 to 29.
    • If you're 30 or older, you can get a Pap test and HPV test together every 5 years.
  • Get screened for chlamydia and gonorrhea if you're sexually active.
  • Get tested for HIV at least once.
    • All pregnant women need to be tested for HIV.
    • Discuss your risk with your health care provider because you may need more frequent tests.

Ages 40 to 49

  • Blood pressure should be taken at every medical visit.
    • Discuss treatment with your provider if your blood pressure is 140/90 or higher.
  • Discuss breast cancer screening (mammogram) with your provider. You may need this based on your family history.
  • Get a Pap test and HPV test together every 5 years.
  • Get screened for chlamydia and gonorrhea if you're sexually active.
  • Get tested for HIV at least once.
    • All pregnant women need to be tested for HIV.
    • Discuss your risk with your health care provider because you may need more frequent tests.