Health checkups women need in their 20s

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Your 20s can be a busy time filled with changes, new responsibilities and plans for the future. With everything going on, it can be easy to put your health on the back burner, especially when you feel healthy.

But your 20s are an important time to build healthy habits and establish a relationship with health care providers you trust. Regular checkups and recommended health screenings can help you understand your health, identify concerns early and make informed decisions about your well-being now and in the years ahead.

What health screenings do you need?

The health screenings you need in your 20s depend on your age, personal and family history and individual risk factors. Preventive care during this decade may include blood pressure checks, cervical cancer screening, sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening and mental health screening.

Regular visits with a primary care provider and an OB-GYN also give you a chance to ask questions about your period, sexual and reproductive health, pregnancy planning, vaccinations or changes in how you feel.

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Blood pressure screening

High blood pressure often does not cause noticeable symptoms, which makes routine screening important even when you feel healthy. Blood pressure screening is recommended for adults beginning at age 18.

Your provider can tell you how often your blood pressure should be checked based on your previous readings and your risk factors.

Cervical cancer screening

Cervical cancer screening begins at age 21 for most women at average risk. For women ages 21 to 29, screening typically includes a Pap test every three years.

A Pap screening test looks for abnormal cells on the cervix that could potentially develop into cervical cancer. Staying up to date on screening can help find these changes before they become more serious.

Your provider can help determine the right screening schedule for you based on your health history and previous results.

Sexually transmitted infection screening

Your 20s are also an important time to talk openly with your provider about sexual health. Depending on your age, sexual activity and risk factors, your provider may recommend testing for STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea.

HIV screening is also recommended for adults, and hepatitis C screening is recommended at least once for most adults ages 18 to 79. Additional or repeat testing may be recommended depending on your risk factors.

Talking honestly with your provider can help them recommend testing that is appropriate for you.

Mental health screening

Your mental health is an important part of your overall health. Routine preventive care may include screening for concerns such as depression and anxiety.

You can also talk with your provider at any time if you are experiencing ongoing stress, sadness, worry, difficulty sleeping or other changes that are affecting your daily life.

Do women in their 20s need mammograms or other cancer screenings?

For most women at average risk, routine mammograms, colorectal cancer screenings and bone density tests are not recommended during their 20s. These screenings generally begin later in life. For example, routine mammography begins at age 40, while colorectal cancer screening for adults at average risk begins at age 45.

However, your family and personal health history matter. A strong family history of breast, ovarian, colorectal or other cancers may mean you need a different screening plan or genetic risk assessment.

This is one reason it is helpful to know your family health history and share it with your provider. Together, you can determine whether you need additional testing or should begin certain screenings earlier.

Make preventive care part of your 20s

Health care in your 20s is about more than completing a list of screenings. It's also an opportunity to learn what's normal for you and build habits that can support your long-term health.

During preventive visits, talk with your provider about:

Your menstrual cycle and any changes or concerns
Sexual and reproductive health
Pregnancy planning and prenatal health
Vaccinations, including whether you are up to date on the HPV vaccine
Nutrition and physical activity
Sleep and stress
Mental health
Tobacco, vaping, alcohol and substance use
Your personal and family health history

If pregnancy is something you may want in the future, your provider can also help you prepare. For women who are planning or capable of becoming pregnant, preventive recommendations may include discussing folic acid supplementation.

Build a healthy foundation for the future

You do not have to wait until something feels wrong to take care of your health. Your 20s are an opportunity to understand your body, establish healthy habits and build relationships with providers who can support you through different stages of life.

A primary care provider can help you manage your overall health, keep up with vaccinations and preventive screenings and understand your risk for certain health conditions. An OB-GYN can provide additional support for cervical cancer screening, your menstrual cycle, sexual and reproductive health and family planning.

Taking these steps now can help you feel informed and confident about your health throughout your 20s and beyond.