Women’s Health Checks: What’s Recommended at Every Age

ByFamily Doctor Editorial

Women’s health needs evolve across decades. Screening tests that matter in your 20s look different to those in your 40s, 50s, or 70s. Staying on top of the recommended checks takes a little planning — but it’s the single most effective way to catch problems early and prevent disease later. This guide covers what to consider at each stage of life.

In Your 20s

  • Cervical Screening Test — every 5 years from age 25. Replaced the older pap smear; detects HPV (the virus that causes almost all cervical cancer).
  • STI screening — if sexually active, consider annual chlamydia and gonorrhoea testing, plus HIV and syphilis as part of routine sexual health.
  • Contraception review — your GP can discuss options from the pill and IUDs to implants, injections, or barrier methods.
  • Mental health check-in — anxiety and depression often first present in the 20s. Talk to your GP if symptoms are affecting your daily life.
  • Skin check — especially if you’ve had significant sun exposure or a family history of melanoma.
  • Weight, blood pressure, general fitness — establish a baseline so future changes are easier to spot.

In Your 30s

  • Continue cervical screening every 5 years.
  • Preconception check if planning pregnancy — rubella immunity, folate, thyroid, iron, and vaccination review.
  • Antenatal care during pregnancy through your GP and obstetric team.
  • Mental health — perinatal depression and anxiety are common; your GP should screen during and after pregnancy.
  • Pelvic floor assessment after childbirth — ask about physiotherapy if you have any leakage, prolapse symptoms, or pelvic pain.
  • Breast awareness — know what’s normal for you; report any changes promptly.

In Your 40s

  • Continue cervical screening every 5 years.
  • 45-49 year old health check — a Medicare-funded one-off assessment focused on preventing chronic disease. Ask your GP.
  • Breast screening — BreastScreen Australia offers free mammograms every 2 years from age 40 (actively invited from age 50).
  • Perimenopause — symptoms can start in your 40s. Irregular periods, hot flushes, mood changes, and sleep disturbance are worth discussing with your GP.
  • Cardiovascular risk — blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screening become more important.
  • Bowel cancer screening — free test kits mailed to your home from age 50 (earlier if you have risk factors).

In Your 50s

  • Continue cervical screening until age 74.
  • BreastScreen mammogram every 2 years (free for 50-74).
  • Bowel cancer screening every 2 years (free kit).
  • Menopause management — your GP can discuss hormone therapy, non-hormonal options, and lifestyle approaches for symptoms.
  • Bone health — discuss calcium, vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercise; your GP may order a DEXA scan if you have fracture risk factors.
  • Cardiovascular health — risk rises significantly after menopause; regular blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes checks matter more than ever.

In Your 60s and Beyond

  • 75+ health assessment — Medicare-funded comprehensive annual check.
  • Ongoing cancer screening — mammogram and bowel screening continue to 74; cervical screening to 74.
  • Bone density — DEXA scans are Medicare-rebatable for specific indications.
  • Eye and hearing tests — regular checks to maintain independence and quality of life.
  • Medication review — annual review of all prescriptions is especially important as medications accumulate.
  • Falls prevention — your GP can assess falls risk and refer to physiotherapy, home modifications, or vision assessment.
  • Immunisations — shingles, pneumococcal, flu, and COVID-19 boosters on recommended schedules.

What to Bring to a Women’s Health Check

  • Medicare card and photo ID
  • Concession card (if you have one)
  • List of current medications, supplements, and contraception
  • Family medical history (particularly breast, ovarian, cervical, and bowel cancer, plus cardiovascular disease)
  • Date of last cervical screening, mammogram, and bowel screening
  • Any symptoms or concerns — even minor or embarrassing ones

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do cervical screening at home?

Yes. Self-collection is available in Australia for eligible women — you collect the sample yourself in the clinic and the lab tests it for HPV. Your GP can explain whether this option is right for you.

Is BreastScreen the same as seeing my GP?

No. BreastScreen is a free national mammogram service. Your GP can discuss breast concerns, examine you, and refer you for additional imaging if needed — they complement each other.

What if I find a breast lump?

See your GP promptly. Most lumps are benign, but all new lumps need assessment — usually with an examination, ultrasound or mammogram, and sometimes a biopsy.

Are women’s health checks bulk billed?

Cervical screening, the 45-49 year old health check, and the 75+ assessment all have Medicare rebates. Whether your clinic bulk bills depends on its billing policy — check your clinic’s fees page for current information.

Book Your Women’s Health Check

A comprehensive women’s health check takes time — book a long appointment with your GP. Find your nearest Family Doctor clinic to book.

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