8 types of examinations that women must undergo from the age of 20

Women, you must know how to take care of yourself. Starting from the age of 20, women should undergo the following 9 examinations in their lifetime.

1. Comprehensive physical examination

For those aged 21-40, a comprehensive physical examination should be done at least once every 5 years. After the age of 40, a physical examination should be done once a year. The examination includes blood sugar, blood lipids, thyroid function, liver and kidney function, etc.

2. Pap smear test

It is recommended to have a check-up every year starting at the age of 21. If you have three normal test results in a row by age 30, you only need to have a check-up every three years until age 65.

3. Sexually transmitted disease screening

Failure to treat STDs in a timely manner may lead to infertility in some female patients. Annual testing for HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea is recommended.

4. Skin lesion examination

Melanoma is the leading cause of cancer death in women aged 25-29 years. The incidence of melanoma in young women has increased by 50% in the past 30 years. People with a family history of melanoma should get a skin cancer check every year.

5. HPV test

Starting around age 30, women's immunity begins to decline, making them more susceptible to HPV (human papillomavirus) infection. Start testing for HPV at age 30. If the results are normal, you can do it every 3 years thereafter. The World Health Organization's "gold standard" for detecting cervical cancer is a combination of a Pap smear and an HPV test, which can detect the vast majority of viral infections.

6. Blood sugar test

Blood sugar testing can help detect the early signs of type 2 diabetes. If you feel thirsty, tired, or have weight loss, you should test your blood sugar. The risk of diabetes increases with age. It is recommended to check blood sugar every three years after the age of 30, and once a year after the age of 50.

7. Blood lipid test

After the age of 40, blood lipids should be checked every year. Smokers and those with a family history of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease should have regular check-ups.

8. Mammogram

The incidence of breast cancer increases with age. Among women aged 50 to 59, the incidence of breast cancer is 2%; among women aged 60 to 69, the incidence of breast cancer is 3%. It is recommended to have a breast X-ray every two years, and those with a family history of breast cancer should have a check-up before the age of 40. If you find any changes in breast size or shape, or any lumps, you should go to the hospital immediately.