Plan your checkup

Pick one month (maybe your birthday month) to be your "well checkup month". It's important that you have a well-woman checkup every year to discuss any health concerns you may have.

Depending on your age, check with your own physician for requirements and additions, scheduling the following:

Well-Woman Checkup
Mammogram
Bone Density
Blood Workup including cholesterol, hormone levels and thyroid.
Pap Smear
Vision
Hearing
Dermatology - Skin cancer check especially fair skin

Go prepared

Be sure to take a list/journal of any questions you have prepared with you when you go for your annual checkup. Take a list of medications you currently take and may need a new prescription. Take a list of medical concerns you have to discuss. This is also the time to discuss any concerns you have if you are feeling blue and find little pleasure in your normal activities. If you are a smoker, consider asking your doctor for help to stop smoking. If you are overweight, your doctor may be able to provide support for weight loss.

Depending on your age, don't forget to let your doctor know about any menopausal symptoms you are experiencing.

In particular, if you are experiencing distress over missing libido, talk about it. If you are experiencing night sweats or hot flashes, incontinence or insomnia, this is the best time to discuss possible treatment options.

Make the most of your appointments

Although medical checkups are not entertaining, make the most of the time by being prepared with questions for your physician, plans for life-style changes with the ultimate goal: Take a step towards a healthier you.

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