Gynecology Services - Menopausal Years - Annual Exams, Mammograms
Most women can expect to live about 80 years. With this life span, at least one third of a woman’s life is lived after menopause. Women can lead active and fulfilling lives well into their later years. You can become involved in your own healthcare by having routine screening tests and making healthy lifestyle choices. All women should have a physical exam yearly. The exam should include certain routine tests. Your doctor may suggest other tests as well.
Please click here to read ACOG’s article on the Menopausal years.
Diet and exercise remain to be key to good health. Exercise may help relieve problems with sleeping. Mild exercise a few hours before bed or during the day can help you get a restful nights sleep.
*Mammograms are recommended once a year for women aged 50 and older because as woman age their risk for breast cancer increases. It is also recommended for your doctor to examine your breast once a year, as well as continuation of monthly self breast exams.
SCREENING TESTS |
HOW OFTEN |
Mammography |
Every 1 - 2 years for women aged 40-50 Once a year for women aged 50 and older Once a year for a woman with a personal or family history of breast cancer |
Doctor's Exam of Breasts |
Once a Year |
Breast Self-Exams |
Once a month |
How to do a breast self-exam
The best time to do the breast self-exam is a few days after your period ends each month. It’s easier at this time because your breasts ate less tender or swollen. If you are not having periods, try to do the exam on the same day each month. Some women choose the first day of each month.