Spring is a season of renewal—a time to declutter, refresh, and set new goals. While you’re deep cleaning your home, why not do the same for your health? Just like organizing your space, scheduling important health checkups ensures your body stays in top shape for the months ahead.
At GYNWC of Lakewood Ranch, we encourage women to prioritize their well-being by staying on top of essential screenings and checkups. Here are five important health exams you shouldn’t skip this spring!
5 Spring Checkups You Shouldn’t Avoid
1. Annual Well-Woman Exam
Your well-woman exam is the foundation of preventive care. This yearly checkup helps detect potential health issues early, ensures reproductive health is on track, and gives you a chance to discuss any concerns with your provider.
What’s included?
- Pelvic exam
- Breast exam
- Discussion of menstrual health, birth control, or menopause symptoms
- Screening for infections or abnormalities
Spring is the perfect time to schedule your appointment! Don’t wait—early detection and preventive care can make all the difference.
2. Pap Smear & HPV Test
A Pap smear checks for abnormal cervical cells that may indicate cervical cancer, while an HPV test screens for the human papillomavirus, a common cause of cervical cancer.
Who needs it?
- Women ages 21-65 should have a Pap smear every 3 years
- HPV testing is recommended for women 30+ or as advised by your doctor
Spring is a time for fresh starts—make sure your cervical health is protected and up to date!
3. Breast Health Screening (Mammogram & Self-Checks)
Regular breast exams and mammograms are crucial for early breast cancer detection. If you’re over 40 or have a family history of breast cancer, don’t delay your screening.
Breast health checklist:
- Monthly self-breast exams (Look for lumps, changes in size, or skin dimpling)
- Clinical breast exams during your annual checkup
- Mammograms as recommended by your provider (typically starting at age 40) Early detection saves lives! If you haven’t scheduled your breast screening yet, spring is the time to do it.
4. STI Screening & Sexual Health Checkup
Sexual health is an important part of overall well-being. Whether you’re in a long-term relationship or not, regular STI testing helps protect both your health and that of your partners.
What should you get tested for?
- Chlamydia & gonorrhea
- HIV & syphilis
- HPV & herpes (if applicable)
- Other infections based on personal risk factors
Pro Tip: Many STIs have no symptoms, so regular screening is key—even if you feel fine!
5. Hormone & Metabolic Health Check
Hormonal imbalances can cause symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, irregular periods, mood swings, and low libido. Spring is a great time to assess your hormonal health and make adjustments if needed.
Consider testing for:
- Thyroid function (for metabolism and energy)
- Estrogen & progesterone levels (for menstrual & reproductive health)
- Blood sugar & cholesterol (for heart and metabolic health)
Feeling off? Don’t ignore the signs—your body might be telling you something!
Time to Refresh Your Health This Spring!
Just like a spring cleaning checklist for your home, your health deserves a seasonal refresh. Preventive care is one of the best ways to stay ahead of potential issues and keep your body feeling strong and balanced.
Schedule your spring checkups today! Call (941) 907-3008 to book your next appointment.
Let’s spring forward into a healthier season together!
