Doctor's Appointments to Make in Your 20s, 30s and 40s
Take care of yourself and be in control of your health! By visiting with your doctor every year, you may prevent serious diseases from ever starting—or at least catch them early. By getting the right screenings and treatments, you will be taking steps that will increase your chances of living a longer, healthier life.
Before you attend your next doctor’s appointment, take time to do a few things to prepare. Your appointment will go more smoothly, and you will be able to get more bang for your bucks.
- Make a list of your questions and concerns.
- Bring a list of all medications you are currently taking, including alternative remedies, over-the-counter medications and herbs and vitamins.
- Make a list of all doctors you have seen in the past.
- Bring any results from tests you have had within the past two years.
- If necessary, ask a family member or friend to come with you to the appointment.
In general, the following are examinations that every woman should have:
In your 20s
- Visit with your primary care provider yearly.
- Visit with your gynecologist yearly.
- See your dentist every six months.
- Visit your dermatologist every year if you have fair skin. If you have darker skin, make an appointment if you notice a suspicious mole.
In your 30s
- Along with the above appointments, it is wise to add cholesterol screening to your yearly appointments.
In your 40s
- Along with all of the above, you should add:
- Yearly mammogram.
- Visit with a cardiologist for a baseline stress echocardiogram.
- Visit with an ophthalmologist yearly.
- Consider a colonoscopy but only if you have a family history of colon cancer. Determining whether this is necessary can be done during your yearly check-up with your doctor.
Remember, you are in charge of yourself and your health care! If you have further questions about what screenings you need, please visit with your health care provider.
Melanie Yunger is a local nurse practitioner and freelance writer.