Women's Health and Wellness in Your 40s

Health in Your 40s

Life in your 40s is filled with transitions. Most women are taking care of everyone at home, including children and aging parents. Self-care is important, especially during this phase of your life when your body is experiencing subtle hormone shifts that can raise your risk of chronic illnesses, including heart disease. As the leading provider in women’s health in the Tampa Bay area, we offer services catered to your needs, including primary care doctors, gynecologists, and heart specialists.

Screenings and Vaccinations

It's important to keep up with recommended screenings as the risk for health issues increases.

  • Cervical Cancer Screening
    It is important to have a regular pap smear to screen for cervical cancer. This test is performed every three years or as determined by your health care provider
  • Blood Pressure Screening

    If you have a low risk for heart disease, it is recommended that you get your blood pressure checked every other year. However, some may require annual screenings, so check with your health care provider on recommendations.  

  • Bone Density Screening
    Once you enter your 40s, bone mass and bone density slowly decline. Your health care provider may order a DEXA scan, a low-dose x-ray, to determine your risk for osteoporosis.
  • Breast Exam
    Regularly examining your breasts on your own each month is an easy way to look and feel for any abnormalities. Combined with the breast exam performed during your annual check-up, you have a higher chance of finding cancer early, when it’s more like to be treated successfully.
  • Cholesterol Blood Panel
    Monitoring your cholesterol is an important part of heart disease prevention. Depending on your personal and family medical history, your health care provider may offer lifestyle adjustments to reduce your risk of heart disease. Typically, your cholesterol levels are checked every 5 years or annually if your results are high.
  • Colorectal Screening
    Regular colorectal screening is recommended at age 45, and subsequent screenings are based on test results. There are various types of screenings, so talk with your health care provider about what is right for you.
  • Depression Screening
    Hormones can cause a lot of changes, including affecting your mental health. During a depression screening, you’ll answer a series of questions to determine if you are experiencing depression or at risk for suicide. Your health care provider may recommend treatment, including referrals to a psychiatrist or therapist.
  • Diabetes Screening
    Nearly 15% of Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes, a metabolic disease identified by high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). It is recommended that you test for diabetes at least once every 3 years. 
  • Flu Shot
    The flu vaccine is the best chance to avoid getting the flu. It is important to get the flu vaccine every year as soon as it is available. Learn More 
  • Mammogram
    It is recommended that you get your first mammogram (an x-ray of the breast) in your 40s unless otherwise suggested by your health care provider. Keeping regular mammogram screenings can increase the chances of catching cancer early, making it easier to treat.  Schedule your mammogram now.
  • Tdap Vaccine Booster
    The Tdap vaccine helps protect against Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis, all of which are serious diseases. Boosters are recommended every 10 years for adults.

Additional Resources