Between work, kids and running a household, a woman's own health tends to land at the bottom of the list, and many only see a doctor when something hurts. This guide lays out, decade by decade, which checkups make sense even when you feel fine, and which symptoms deserve a visit without waiting for the next appointment.
Ages 18 to 29
- Pap smear starting at 21, then every three years if it comes back normal.
- Chlamydia and gonorrhea testing once a year if you're sexually active and under 25, per the CDC. Many of these infections cause no symptoms.
- Birth control: a good time to review whether your current method works for you or whether you'd prefer another, such as the arm implant.
- HPV vaccine if you didn't finish the series as a teen.
Your 30s
- The Pap smear can be paired with a human papillomavirus test, which lets you space screenings further apart.
- Blood pressure and weight at every visit. High blood pressure in younger women often goes unnoticed.
- If you're planning a pregnancy, ask about folic acid before you start trying: it helps prevent neural tube defects in the baby.
Your 40s
- Mammogram: the USPSTF recommends one every two years starting at 40.
- Glucose and cholesterol, especially with diabetes in the family, which is very common in Latino families.
- Irregular cycles, heavy bleeding or hot flashes may signal the start of perimenopause and are worth bringing up.
50 and beyond
- A mammogram every two years through age 74.
- Colon cancer screening from 45 on, using the test your doctor recommends.
- Bone density from 65, or earlier with risk factors.
- Any vaginal bleeding after menopause should be checked promptly.
Symptoms that shouldn't wait
- Spotting outside your period or after sex
- Discharge with a strong odor, itching or burning
- Pelvic pain that won't go away
- A new breast lump or changes in the skin of the nipple
- Burning when you urinate or needing to go constantly, which may be a urinary tract infection
What we offer at Clínica Hispana Cruz 4
We provide gynecology care in Spanish, all in one place:
- Pap smears and vaginal cultures
- Pregnancy testing
- Birth control and contraceptive implant removal
- Ultrasound and blood work
- STD testing
Walk in between 9 AM and 9 PM at 10100 Beechnut St, Suite 240. Our promotions page lists fixed-price women's checkups. And if you're looking for Spanish-language gynecology, read our guide to Hispanic gynecologists in Houston.
Need medical attention?
We're here to help. Call now to schedule your appointment or visit our clinic without an appointment.
Call now: +1 (281) 588-0033
