PELVIC EXAM & PAP SMEAR AGE 21+ A female pelvic exam is a physical exam where a doctor checks the health of the reproductive organs, including the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. During this exam, a Pap smear may also be done, which is a simple test that collects cells from the cervix to check for cervical cancer or precancerous changes. The pelvic exam helps detect infections, abnormal growths, and other health issues, and it is also a time when a doctor may recommend an ovarian cancer screening, especially for women with risk factors such as family history or certain genetic conditions. Pelvic exams are usually recommended starting at age 21, or earlier if symptoms like pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, or unusual discharge are present. Depending on age, health history, and risk factors, most women have them every one to three years as part of routine care. A diagnostic heart scan, such as a coronary calcium scan, uses imaging to look for plaque buildup in the arteries and helps detect heart disease early. It is especially valuable for women, since heart disease is the leading cause of death and symptoms can often be subtle or different from men. Doctors may recommend this scan every three to five years for women with risk factors like family history, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or smoking. HEART SCREENING AGE 20+ lhdbenefits.com | 401 Pennsylvania Pkwy, Suite 200 | Indianapolis, IN 46280 | 317.705.1600 BONE DENSITY TEST AGE 40+ A DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan measures bone density to help assess bone health and osteoporosis risk. Women should consider a preventive DEXA screening around age 40 to establish a baseline that can be used to monitor changes in bone density as they age. Routine screening is recommended for women age 65 and older. Please note that fees may apply for screenings completed before age 65. If results are normal, repeat every 5–10 years; if low or at higher risk, repeat every 2–5 years.