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National Women’s Checkup Day

Many women seem to have a tendency to make sure that the people around them are cared for and looked after, but sometimes they forget to take care of themselves. National Women’s Checkup Day brings attention to this concern, recognizing that all women need to have regular, annual check-ups from their...

Body & Health Healthcare Life & Living Women72

Marketing angleinferred

Drive preventive care appointments and health screenings by positioning annual checkups as essential self-care for women, timed with Mother's Day messaging.

Relevance 72high intent

'Self-care starts with a checkup' – remind women that prioritizing their health is not selfish
Partner with clinics to offer appointment reminders or discounted screening packages during Women's Health Week
Share testimonials from women about the importance of preventive care and early detection
Create educational content about what to expect during a women's health checkup to reduce anxiety

History

Founded by the US Department of Health and Human Services, the event takes place as part of the larger initiative called National Women’s Health Week.

This event takes place during this time of the year, intentionally linked with Mother’s Day, which serves as an added reminder that all women, including mothers, need to take care of themselves.

National Women’s Checkup Day was first celebrated in 2003 and has grown over the years. It is now observed by a wide range of organizations and groups, including healthcare facilities and government agencies, such as the US Food & Drug Administration and the Office on Women’s Health.

Each year, this event is celebrated along with a different theme that shines a spotlight on a particular topic related to women’s health. Some of the past themes have included:

Acting as an important reminder for women to make an appointment with their doctor to get a health checkup, National Women’s Checkup Day is here!

How to celebrate

Schedule a Health Checkup

One of the first things to do in honor of National Women’s Checkup Day is right in the name – call or hop online to schedule an appointment with a primary care provider, nurse practitioner, or health clinic to get a checkup.

Understand Women’s Health Checkups

Those women who are concerned about what might happen at a medical checkup might want to be a bit more prepared. While it might vary between medical providers, the basics might include general screenings such as weight, blood pressure, and lung checks as well as some of these things: Breast Health Exam Pap Smear and Cervical Screening Diabetes and Bone Density Screening (based on age) Lipid or cholesterol screening If concerned, feel free to ask questions when making the appointment. Medical professionals should be happy to share information that helps their patients feel confident about their care.

Schedule Other Health Screenings

Women’s Checkup Day might bring to attention the need for an overall checkup, or it might reveal a particular screening that might not take place as often. For instance, a mammogram, skin cancer screening, colon cancer screening or some other test might be recommended by a doctor every 2-5 years.

FAQ

What preventive health screenings are most important for women at different ages?

Preventive screening needs change as women move through life. In general, major organizations recommend regular blood pressure checks starting in early adulthood, with cholesterol and diabetes screening based on age and risk factors. Cervical cancer screening typically begins at age 21 and continues through age 65 using Pap tests, HPV tests, or both. Breast cancer screening with mammography is usually introduced between ages 40 and 50, depending on guidelines and personal risk. Beginning around age 45 to 50, women are advised to start colorectal cancer screening, while bone density testing for osteoporosis is generally recommended starting at age 65 or earlier for those with risk factors. Exact timing and frequency can vary by country and by individual risk, so women are encouraged to review recommendations with a trusted health professional.

How do women’s preventive care needs differ from men’s?

Women and men share many preventive care needs, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screening, but women also have sex‑specific needs related to reproductive organs, pregnancy, and menopause. For example, women are screened for cervical cancer, are more likely to need counseling and care related to contraception and pregnancy, and have higher rates of conditions like autoimmune disease, osteoporosis, and certain thyroid disorders. Heart disease often appears later in women and may present with subtler symptoms, so cardiovascular risk assessment tailored to women is important. Hormonal changes across the life course, including menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, also influence mental health, bone health, and some cancer risks in ways that differ from men.

Why do some women delay or avoid regular checkups, and what can help?

Research points to several reasons women may postpone routine medical visits, including cost, lack of insurance or paid time off, caregiving responsibilities, fear of bad news or pain during exams, previous negative experiences with healthcare, and cultural or language barriers. Practical supports such as low‑cost or free screening programs, flexible clinic hours, child‑friendly waiting areas, and transportation assistance can improve attendance. So can respectful, culturally sensitive care and clear communication about what to expect during a visit. Having a regular primary care provider and receiving reminders by phone, text, or email are also linked with higher use of preventive services among women.

How often should women have a pelvic exam or Pap/HPV test?

Cervical cancer screening recommendations have shifted as evidence has grown. In many countries, women ages 21 to 29 are advised to have a Pap test at regular intervals, often every three years if results are normal. From 30 to 65, guidelines commonly recommend either continuing Pap tests every three years, having an HPV test alone every five years, or co‑testing with both Pap and HPV every five years, as long as results remain normal. A pelvic exam may be performed at the same visit, but the need and timing of pelvic exams without symptoms can differ by clinician and guideline. Women should discuss their own screening schedule with a healthcare provider, especially if they have a history of abnormal results, a weakened immune system, or other risk factors.

What preventive care is important for women who feel healthy and have no symptoms?

Preventive care is designed for women who feel well, because many conditions develop silently. Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar can be abnormal for years without causing noticeable symptoms, yet quietly damage the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels. Screening tests can detect early cancers of the breast, cervix, and colon, when treatment is more effective and less intensive. Vaccinations such as HPV, influenza, COVID‑19, and others recommended by age and risk reduce infections and serious complications. Routine visits are also a chance to address mental health, substance use, intimate partner violence, nutrition, physical activity, and reproductive planning before problems arise. This proactive approach helps preserve long‑term health rather than waiting for illness to appear.

How do pregnancy and childbirth affect a woman’s long‑term health checkup needs?

Pregnancy and childbirth can uncover or increase the risk of long‑term health problems. Conditions such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and high blood pressure in pregnancy are linked to a higher chance of later type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Women who experience these complications benefit from more frequent blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar checks after pregnancy. The postpartum period is also a critical time to screen for depression and anxiety. In addition, pregnancy offers an opportunity to update vaccinations and discuss future family planning. Regular follow‑up with both obstetric and primary care providers helps ensure that pregnancy‑related risks are managed well into midlife and beyond.

What should women know about heart disease risk during routine checkups?

Heart disease is a leading cause of death in women worldwide, yet many still see it as a “men’s disease.” During routine checkups, women are encouraged to review their blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, weight, smoking status, and family history, since these factors strongly influence cardiovascular risk. Certain conditions that affect women more often, such as autoimmune disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, early menopause, or pregnancy complications, can further raise risk. Women may experience heart symptoms like shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, nausea, or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back rather than only classic chest pain. Discussing symptoms openly and asking for a clear plan to prevent heart disease, including lifestyle changes and medication when needed, are key steps in protecting long‑term cardiovascular health.