Lifetime of Good Health

UR GUIDE TO STAYING HEALTHY

womenshealth.gov1-800-994-9662TDD: 1-888-220-5446

U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesOffice on Women’s Health

fetime of Good Health


G U I D E TO S TAY I N G H E A LT H Y 

ational Women’s Health Cervical Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Center 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Healthy Eyes and Ears . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

creenings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

4 Colorectal Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

overed Preventive Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

27

28

29

30

rt and Stroke Prevention. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Healthy Smile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Warning Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Healthy Skin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

es . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Urinary Tract Health. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

er Early Detection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Violence in Your Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 

Healthy Lungs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

gnancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Healthy Weight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

ng. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Diabetes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 National Centers of Excellence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Talking with your Doctor or Nurse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

e Health. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Checklist of Questions to ask your Doctor or Nurse . . . . . 37

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 1 
he National Women’s Health Information Center

H? 

The Office on Women’s Health (OWH) was established in 1991 within the U.S. Department of Health 

vices. OWH coordinates 

the HHS agencies and 

n women’s health. 

mprove the health and 

men and girls in the 

ough its innovative 

ucating health 

nd motivating behavior 

mers through the 

health information. 

What is NWHIC? We are the most reliable and current information resource on women’s health today. We offer FREE women’s health information on more than 800 topics through our call center and web site. By phone (in both English and Spanish) or via our web site you can find: 

● original health information on 

special topics like minority women, pregnancy, women with disabilities, breastfeeding, men’s health, and much more 

● thousands of health publications ● statistics on women’s health ● daily news on women’s health 

● a calendar of women’s health events ● and MORE! 

We also offer a National Breastfeeding Helpline! Our trained breastfeeding peer counselors can help you with your basic breastfeeding questions and concerns. If you are having a hard time, 

don’t give up! Call us! It’s free! Or visit www.WomensHealth.gov/breastfeeding. 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
he difference between 

and other women’s 

formation services? 

ponsored by the federal 

 It is a service of the Office on 

ealth within the U.S. 

of Health and Human 

e don’t represent any special 

interest or try to sell you 

WHIC is here simply to help 

nformation you can trust on a 

of women’s health issues most 

o you. 

What is the prevention guide? This guide to staying healthy is brought to you by the National Women’s Health Information Center (NWHIC) because we understand women’s needs for quick and trustworthy information. This approach to life-long health begins with healthy behaviors to prevent and manage the many health conditions that can affect you. Although there are genetic risks that you cannot control for many diseases, there are risks that you can overcome by following key preventive steps. These steps 

are outlined in this booklet and were designed to be easy to follow! Please use them to make healthy choices for yourself and for the people you love. 

National Women's Health Information Center U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women's Health 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 3 
ive Screenings 

y to living long and living well. Getting preventive screenings and immunizations are among the most important things 

ourself. Take time to review these guidelines for screening tests and immunizations. Use the charts on the next few 

yourself of when you need to see your health care provider based on your personal health profile. Make an 

ay! 

ed Screenings and Immunizations for Women at Average Risk for Most Diseases 

Ages 18-39 Ages 40-49 Ages 50-64 Ages 65 and Older 

 Discuss with your doctor Discuss with your Discuss with your Discuss with your 

uding or nurse. doctor or nurse. doctor or nurse. doctor or nurse. 

t 

H) Start at age 35, then every 

5 years 

Every 5 years Every 5 years Every 5 years 

est 

At least every 2 years At least every 2 years At least every 2 years At least every 2 years Start at age 20, discuss with Discuss with your doctor Discuss with your doctor Discuss with your doctor your doctor or nurse. or nurse. or nurse. or nurse. 

Discuss with your doctor Discuss with your Get a bone mineral density 

nsity test or nurse. doctor or nurse. test at least once.Talk to 

your doctor or nurse about repeat testing. 

Discuss with your doctor Start at age 45, then every Every 3 years Every 3 years or nurse. 3 years 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
ended Screenings and Immunizations for Women at Average Risk for Most Diseases 

ests Ages 18-39 Ages 40-49 Ages 50-64 Ages 65 and Older 

th: Every 1-2 years. Discuss Every 1-2 years. Discuss Every 1-2 years. Discuss 

m (x-ray of with your doctor or nurse. with your doctor or nurse. with your doctor or nurse. 

ve Health: Every 1-3 years if you have Every 1-3 years Every 1-3 years Discuss with your doctor 

elvic exam been sexually active or are or nurse. 

older than 21 

est If sexually active, yearly 

until age 25. Ages 26-39, if 

If you are at high risk for chlamydia or other sexually 

If you are at high risk for chlamydia or other sexually 

If you are at high risk for chlamydia or other sexually 

you are at high risk for transmitted diseases transmitted diseases transmitted diseases chlamydia or other STDs, (STDs) you may need this (STDs) you may need this (STDs) you may need this you may need this test. test. test. test. 

nsmitted Both partners should get Both partners should get Both partners should get Both partners should get 

D) tests tested for STDs, including tested for STDs, including tested for STDs, including tested for STDs, including 

HIV, before initiating sexual HIV, before initiating sexual HIV, before initiating sexual HIV, before initiating sexual intercourse. intercourse. intercourse. intercourse. 

Health: Yearly Yearly 

blood test 

moidoscopy Every 5 years (if not having Every 5 years (if not having 

ccult blood a colonoscopy) a colonoscopy) 

rred) 

trast Barium Every 5-10 years (if not Every 5-10 years (if not 

BE) having a colonoscopy or having a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy) sigmoidoscopy) 

y Every 10 years Every 10 years 

hese charts are guidelines only. Your doctor will personalize the timing of each test and immunization to best meet your health care needs. 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 5 
ed Screenings and Immunizations for Women at Average Risk for Most Diseases 

Ages 18-39 Ages 40-49 Ages 50-64 Ages 65 and Older 

h (cont.): Discuss with your doctor Discuss with your doctor Every 5-10 years with each Every 5-10 years with each 

or nurse. or nurse. screening (sigmoidoscopy, screening (sigmoidoscopy, 

colonoscopy, or DCBE) colonoscopy, or DCBE) 

alth: Get your eyes checked if Every 2-4 years Every 2-4 years Every 1-2 years 

you have problems or visual changes. Starting at age 18, then Every 10 years Discuss with your doctor Discuss with your doctor every 10 years or nurse. or nurse. Monthly mole self-exam; by Monthly mole self-exam; by Monthly mole self-exam; by Monthly mole self-exam; by a doctor every 3 years, a doctor every year. a doctor every year. a doctor every year. starting at age 20. One to two times every One to two times every One to two times every One to two times every year year year year Discuss with your doctor Discuss with your doctor Discuss with your doctor Discuss with your doctor or nurse. or nurse. or nurse. or nurse. 

 Discuss with your doctor Discuss with your doctor Yearly Yearly 

 or nurse. or nurse. 

accine One time only 

ria 

Every 10 years Every 10 years Every 10 years Every 10 years 

harts are guidelines only. Your doctor will personalize the timing of each test and immunization to best meet your health care needs. 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
ended Screenings and Immunizations for Women at High Risk 

harts to find out if your personal or family history puts you at higher risk for some diseases. If you have a higher than 

for a disease, you may need special screenings or tests more often or at a younger age. 

 your family 

ry include: 

Then ask your doctor or nurse if you need the following screenings or tests more often or at a younger age: 

blood pressure Blood pressure test cholesterol Cholesterol test 

 disease, premature 

disease or heart 

 

Blood pressure test, cholesterol test, exercise stress test 

tes Blood sugar test 

 Cancer Mammogram, ovarian screening 

tests 

cal, uterine, or vaginal 

r 

Pap test, pelvic exam, ovarian screening tests, colon screening 

an Cancer Pelvic Exam, ovarian screening 

tests, colon screening, clinical breast exam 

porosis, bone 

re in adulthood 

Bone mineral density test 

d disease or thyroid 

r 

Thyroid test and/or genetic counseling 

✔ 

if it 

applies 

Does your family history include: 

Then ask your doctor or nurse if you need the following screenings or tests more often or at a younger age: 

Gum (periodontal) disease Oral exam Hearing problems, deafness Hearing test Vision problems, eye disease, blindness 

Vision exam 

Inflammatory bowel disease; colon polyps; colon, ovarian or endometrial cancer 

Colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, DCBE, rectal exam, fecal occult blood test 

Cancer, heart disease, or any illness at an unusually young age (50 or under) 

Genetic counseling, possible early screening tests 

Two relatives with the same kind of cancer 

Genetic counseling, possible early screening tests 

Birth defects or genetic disorder (you or your partner) 

Genetic counseling, possible early screening tests. If you want to become pregnant, genetic counseling for you and your partner. 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 7 
ed Screenings and Immunizations for Women at High Risk 

Then ask your doctor or nurse if you need the following screenings or tests more often or at a younger age: 

merican Blood pressure test, cholesterol 

test, blood sugar test, vision exam, colonoscopy, genetic counseling for sickle cell anemia Blood pressure test, cholesterol test, blood sugar test, colonoscopy 

tive or Pacific 

Blood sugar test 

ndian Blood sugar test 

Jewish Descent Genetic counseling for 

Tay-Sachs disease, if you want to become pregnant 

Jewish with 

ory of breast or 

ncer 

Genetic counseling for possible BRCA1/2 mutation 

rican Blood sugar test 

older Bone mineral density test, flu 

vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine 

he ages of 60 and 

ess than 154 lbs., 

king estrogen 

Bone mineral density test 

✔ 

if it 

applies 

Are You: Then ask your doctor or 

nurse if you need the following screenings or tests more often or at a younger age: 

College age MMR vaccine, varicella vaccine Postmenopausal Bone mineral density test Pregnant Blood pressure test, blood sugar 

test, urine test, HIV test, STDs tests, MMR vaccine, hepatitis B antigen test 

A non-pregnant woman of childbearing age 

MMR vaccine, varicella vaccine 

A smoker Blood pressure test, cholesterol 

test, bone mineral density test, oral exam, vision exam 

Overweight Blood pressure test, blood sugar 

test, weight 

Living in prison Tuberculosis (TB) test, HIV test, 

STD tests, Hep A, B vaccines 

Living in long-term care TB test, influenza vaccine, 

pneumococcal vaccine 

A health care worker TB test, influenza vaccine, 

pneumococcal vaccine, MMR vaccine, varicella vaccine, HIV test, hepatitis test, hepatitis B vaccine if exposed to blood 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
ended Screenings and Immunizations for Women at High Risk 

ou have or 

you had? 

Then ask your doctor or nurse if you need the following screenings or tests more often or at a younger age: 

blood pressure Blood pressure test, cholesterol 

test, blood sugar test 

cholesterol Blood pressure test, cholesterol 

test, blood sugar test 

 disease Blood pressure test, cholesterol 

test, blood sugar test, influenza vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine 

tes Blood pressure test, cholesterol 

test, blood sugar test, vision exam, urine test 

tional diabetes 

tes during pregnancy) 

Blood sugar test 

y weighing more than 

Blood sugar test 

t cancer Mammogram, ovarian screening 

tests 

e breast Mammogram, clinical breast 

exam 

cal, uterine, vaginal 

r 

Pap test, pelvic exam, ovarian screening tests, colon screening 

✔ 

if it 

applies 

Do you have or have you had? 

Then ask your doctor or nurse if you need the following screenings or tests more often or at a younger age: 

Ovarian cancer Pelvic exam, ovarian screening 

tests, mammogram, colon screening 

Previous abnormal Pap tests 

Pap test, pelvic exam 

Early menopause (natural or surgically induced); absent or infrequent menstrual periods; advanced age; a personal history of bone fracture in adulthood; lifelong low calcium intake; lifelong inactive lifestyle or little physical activity; low body weight (fewer than 154 lbs.) or a history of an eating disorder such as anorexia nervosa 

Bone mineral density test 

An autoimmune disease (including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis) 

Thyroid test,TB test, influenza vaccine, MMR vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine, autoimmune screening test, bone mineral density test 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 9 
ed Screenings and Immunizations for Women at High Risk 

ave or have 

 

Then ask your doctor or nurse if you need the following screenings or tests more often or at a younger age: 

ung disease Influenza vaccine, pneumococcal 

vaccine 

ver disease Hepatitis A, B vaccines 

sease Thyroid test, influenza vaccine, 

pneumococcal vaccine, bone mineral density test (of hyperthyroid) 

odontal) disease Oral exam 

yps; Inflammatory 

ease 

Colonoscopy 

mental delay Vision exam, hearing test 

or disease Vision exam 

or prolonged 

to loud noise 

Hearing test Oral exam; vision exam; Pap test; pelvic exam;TB test; thyroid test; STD tests; influenza vaccine; pneumococcal vaccine; hepatitis screening; hepatitis A, B vaccines 

ransfusion or 

n transplant prior 

Hepatitis C test 

✔ 

if it 

applies 

Do you have or have you had? 

Then ask your doctor or nurse if you need the following screenings or tests more often or at a younger age: 

Received clotting factor concentrates made before 1987 

Hepatitis C test 

A blood transfusion prior to 1985 

HIV test 

Multiple sex partners (or a partner who has or had multiple sex partners) 

STD tests, HIV test, hepatitis B vaccine, Pap test, pelvic exam 

Alcoholism Pneumococcal vaccine,TB test, 

psychological screening, liver tests 

Injection drug use (IDU) or addiction 

Hepatitis A, B vaccines, hepatitis C test,TB test, STD tests, HIV test, psychological screening 

A sexually transmitted disease (STD) 

STD tests, HIV test, Pap test, pelvic exam, hepatitis B vaccine 

Lived or worked with someone exposed to Tuberculosis (TB) 

TB test 

A serious injury (cut or laceration) 

Tetanus-Diphtheria booster vaccine 

A baby recently (within the last few weeks or months) 

Post-partum depression screening 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
care Covered Preventive Services 

hart to see what screenings and immunizations are covered under Medicare. For more information, call 800-MEDICARE 

w

medicare.gov. 

ss Measurements 

2 years if you’re at risk for broken 

red more often if medically necessary. 

Pap Test, Pelvic Exam, and Clinical Breast Exam Once every 24 months. Once every 12 months if you are at high risk for cervical or vaginal cancer, or if you are of an age to have children and have had an abnormal Pap test within the past 36 months. 

One-Time “Welcome to Medicare” Physical Exam 

Covers all people whose Medicare Part B begins on or after January 1, 2005. One-time only exam within the first 6 months that you have Part B. 

al Cancer Screening 

 

ccult Blood Test 

ery 12 months. 

e Sigmoidoscopy 

ery 48 months. 

Mammogram Screening Once every 12 months for women age 40+ One basline mammogram for women between ages 35 and 39. 

Glaucoma Screening Once every 12 months for people at high risk for 

scopy (no min age req) glaucoma. Shots (Vaccinations) 

ery 24 months if you are at high risk Diabetes Services ● Flu Shot 

n cancer. If you are not at high risk n cancer, once every 10 yrs (or 48 

after a screening sigmoidoscopy). 

Enema 

can decide to do it instead of a 

oscopy or colonoscopy. Once every 

hs if you are at high risk for 

al cancer. If you are not at high risk, 

● Screening: fasting plasma glucose test. ● Coverage for glucose monitors, test strips, 

and lancets. 

● Diabetes self-management training. Must be 

requested by your doctor. 

Once a year in the fall or winter. 

● Pneumococcal Pneumonia Shot 

One shot may be all you will ever need. Ask your doctor. 

● Hepatitis B Shot 

If you are at medium-to-high risk for hepatitis. Cardiovascular Screening Includes tests for cholesterol, lipid, and 

ery 48 months. triglyceride levels. 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 11 
 Heart and Stroke Prevention 

se and stroke—two main ● Get tested for diabetes. If you have ● Get moving! Get at least 30 minutes 

cular diseases—are the diabetes, keep your blood sugar levels of physical activity on most days, if not 

auses of death for women in check! This is the BEST way for you all days, of the week. 

n what you can do to to take care of yourself and your heart. ● Take your medicine. If your doctor 

ealth now and for years to ● Eat heart-healthy foods. Eat whole- has prescribed medicine to help you, 

grain foods, vegetables, and fruits. take it exactly as you have been told to. 

an take: Choose lean meats and low-fat cheese 

e. It’s no surprise that and dairy products. Limit foods that 

ts your heart. So if you have lots of saturated fat, like butter, 

o quit. whole milk, baked goods, ice cream, and fatty meats. 

olesterol tested. If it’s 

200), talk to your doctor ● Keep a healthy weight. 

ut losing weight (if you’re ● Eat less salt. Use spices, herbs, 

and getting more active. lemon, and lime instead of salt. 

 medicine that may help. ● If you drink alcohol, don’t have 

blood pressure. Have it more than one drink per day. Too 

make sure you’re on track! much alcohol raises blood pressure 

alk to your doctor about and can raise your risk for stroke and 

r it. other problems. 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
 the Warning Signs

Then you’re back to normal. Many people don’t even know they’ve had it. However, a “mini-stroke” is a sign of a full stroke to come, so it’s important to know the signs. The signs of a stroke happen suddenly and are different from the signs of a heart attack. Look for these signs: ● weakness or numbness on one side of 

your body 

● dizziness, loss of balance, or confusion ● trouble talking or understanding 

speech, headache, or nausea 

● trouble walking or seeing 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 

tack 

fferences in how women and 

d to a heart attack. Women 

ly than men to believe they’re 

art attack and more likely to 

king treatment. 

men, chest pain may not be the 

ur heart is in trouble. Before a 

 women have said that they 

al tiredness, trouble sleeping, 

eathing, indigestion, and 

se symptoms can happen a 

 before the heart attack. 

art attack, women often have 

oms: 

discomfort in the center of the discomfort in other areas of 

r body, including the arms, 

ck, jaw, or stomach. 

● other symptoms, such as shortness of 

breath, breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or light-headedness. 

Stroke A stroke occurs when part of the brain doesn’t get the blood it needs. Then, brain cells die. There are two types of stroke: 

● An ischemic (iss-kee-mik) stroke 

happens when blood is blocked from getting to the brain. 

● A hemorrhagic (heh-muh-ra-jik) 

stroke happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, and blood bleeds into the brain. 

A person might also have a “mini-stroke.” This happens when, for a short time, less blood than normal gets to the brain. You may have some signs of a full stroke, or you may not notice any signs at all. But it only lasts a few minutes up to 24 hours. 

Get help right away 

If you have signs of a heart 

attack or stroke, call 911. Call 

right away—In 5 minutes or less. 

13 
 Bones 

all ages need to take ● Get enough calcium each day. You ● Don’t smoke. Smoking damages your 

keep their bones strong. can get it through foods and/or bones. 

millions of women already calcium pills. Talk with your doctor to ● Drink alcohol moderately. If you 

sk for osteoporosis (oss- see which kind of calcium pill is best drink, do not drink more than one 

s). Osteoporosis means for you. alcoholic drink per day. 

get weak, and you’re ● Get enough vitamin D each day. ● Make your home safe. Reduce your 

reak a bone. Because You can get vitamin D through chances of falling: use a rubber 

mptoms, you might not sunlight, foods, and vitamin pills. You bathmat in the shower or tub; remove 

s are getting weaker until need 10 to 15 minutes of sunlight to throw rugs; and install grab bars in the 

e! There are steps you can the hands, arms, and face, two to three bath or shower. 

r bones from becoming times a week. 

 ● Talk to your doctor about 

● Get moving. Being active helps your medicine. Some medicines can 

n take: bones by slowing bone loss, improving prevent or treat bone loss. 

nes tested. If you are muscle strength, and helping your ● Teach your daughter early. Making 

lder, get a bone density balance. good choices for healthy bones should 

e between ages 60 and ● Eat a healthy diet. You can get the start in childhood and become habits 

s than 154 pounds, and nutrients you need by eating foods like 

trogen, get a bone density


that last. 

lean meats, fish, green leafy vegetables, 

and oranges. 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
t Cancer Early Detection 

ancer is the most common especially proactive about getting a Signs of Breast Cancer 

cancer in women. The older mammogram. Have the mammogram 

 the greater her risk. Most done right after your period because it 

 develop breast cancer have might be less painful and more 

isk factors for the disease, so accurate than during your period. 

to do what you can to detect ● Get a clinical breast exam. This is a 

y. breast exam done by your doctor or Lump Skin dimpling 

u can take: nurse. He or she will check your 

mammogram. It is the best breasts and underarms for any lumps, 

nd out if you have breast nipple discharge, or other changes. 

A mammogram is an x-ray The breast exam should be part of a 

of the breast. It can find breast routine check up. Change in skin Change in how 

hat is too small for you or ● Get to know your breasts. Some color or texture the nipple looks, 

ctor to feel. All women women check their own breasts for like pulling in of 

g at age 40 should get a changes. If you find a change, it’s the nipple 

ogram every one to two important to call your doctor or nurse 

Discuss how often you need a for a visit. Make sure to watch the 

gram with your doctor. If your change you found until you see your 

or sister had breast cancer, be provider. Clear or bloody fluid that 

leaks out of the nipple 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 15 
 Pregnancy 

ou are pregnant, or think calcium-rich foods. You need 1000 acid pills. Eat foods high in folic acid 

 call your doctor as soon milligrams (mg) of calcium per day. like orange juice, leafy green 

set up a visit. You will Drink at least eight glasses of water a vegetables, beans, peanuts, peas, and 

r doctor many times day. Avoid eating a lot of fatty foods whole-grain products. 

gnancy. Follow your such as butter, and fatty meats. Choose ● Tell your doctor about all of the 

e for visits and don’t miss foods lower in fat like chicken and medicines you take. This includes 

turkey without the skin, and fish. prescriptions, over-the-counter 

your body is changing in ● Don’t eat uncooked or medicines you buy without 

se changes may be strange undercooked meats or fish. Do not prescriptions, and herbals. Ask if they 

are all normal. Try to stay eat any shark, swordfish, king are safe to take while you are 

u can—for you and your mackerel, and tilefish (also called pregnant. Most of the time, the 

golden or white snapper) because medicine a pregnant woman is taking 

an take: these fish have high levels of mercury. does not affect her baby. But 

ng, drinking alcohol, ● Limit caffeine from coffee, tea, sometimes it can, causing damage or 

drugs. These can cause sodas, medicines, and chocolates. birth defects. Talk with your doctor 

amage to your baby. Ask ● Take at least 400 micrograms of about which drugs are safe. 

for help. 	 folic acid daily. This will help ● Stay active. Being physically active 

foods. This includes lots prevent certain types of birth defects. during pregnancy helps you in many 

etables, whole grains, and Your doctor may prescribe a daily ways. It prevents a lot of extra weight vitamin that has it, or you can buy folic gain. It helps you have good posture, 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
ill help you feel better later in the product label to see if it has a


gnancy. It can help you sleep pregnancy warning.


nd have a shorter, easier labor. ● Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and 


ere physically active before x-rays.
 

regnant, you can keep doing
 ● Avoid changing cat litter. It can 

moderate activity, like low- carry and cause an infection that can 

aerobic dance, swimming, or cause birth defects. Wear gloves when 

If you were not physically gardening in areas cats may visit. 

efore getting pregnant, you still


ome active, but start slowly. Try ● Get enough sleep. Try to get seven to


at first, then build up to more. nine hours every night.


etching and weight training on ● Control the stress in your life.


machines are ok. Talk to your Don’t be afraid to say NO to requests


bout which activities are good for your time and energy.


● Learn all you can. Read books, 

oxic chemicals. These watch videos, go to a childbirth class, 

paint, paint thinners, cleaning and talk with other moms. 

s, and those used to kill bugs 

ontain lead or mercury. Read 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 17 
eeding 

many benefits to bond with her baby. Physical contact is for one mom might not work for you. 

ding. Even if you are able important to a newborn and can help Relax and try to find a routine and 

a short time, your baby’s them feel more secure, and warm and positions that work for you and your 

can benefit from breast comforted. baby. It will get easier with time. 

tfeed?	 ● Nursing uses up extra calories, making 

s free, clean, and saves it easier to lose the pounds of 

pregnancy. It also helps the uterus to 

bies are more able to fight get back to its original size and lessens 

and disease, such as any bleeding a woman may have after 

 infections, and 

lnesses such as 

They are sick less often 

wer visits to the doctor. 

giving birth. 

Steps you can take: 

● Give your baby breast milk only—no 

formula—for the first six months of 

has the perfect amount of life. It is even better for your baby to 

ater, and protein to help breastfeed for 12 months or longer. 

ow just right. ● You can also give solid foods when 

find breast milk easier to your baby is six months old, while you 

ormula. keep breastfeeding. 

g can help a mother to ● Be patient with yourself! What works 

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s 

en today have busy, demanding such as whole-grain crackers and ● Get a hobby. Give yourself time to 

s! You may feel pulled in breads. explore your interests. 

ections and experience stress ● Get moving. Believe it or not, getting ● Set limits. Set limits with yourself and 

g with work, family, and other physical activity not only helps relieve others. Don’t be afraid to say NO to 

ving little time for yourself. your tense muscles, but helps your requests for your time and energy. 

balance your life with time for mood too! 

give you big rewards. ● Talk to friends. This can help you 

u can take: work through your stress. 

Try deep breathing, yoga, ● Get help from a professional if 

on, or massage therapy. you need it. 

me for yourself. Set aside at ● Compromise. Sometimes, it’s not 

minutes each day to do always worth the stress to argue. Give


ng for yourself, like taking a in once in awhile.


calling a friend.	 ● Write down your thoughts. Keeping a 

leeping helps both your body journal can be a great way to get things 

d. Try to get seven to nine off your chest and work through issues. 

sleep every night. ● Help others. Helping someone else 

thy. Try to fuel up with fruits, can help you. Help your neighbor, or 

es, and whole-grain foods, volunteer in your community. 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 19 
ause 

 is a normal change in 

when your period stops. 

use, your body slowly 

e hormones estrogen and 

s you near menopause, 

mptoms from the 

es in your body. Many 

f these changes are 

ny are confused about 

r symptoms. You can feel 

g all you can about 

by talking with your 

ur health and your 

n take: 

 Avoid a hot environment, 

nking hot or spicy foods, 

affeine, and stress, all of 

ing on hot flashes. Dress 

keep a fan in your home 

When using hormone ● 

helps 

● 

needed 

● therapy for menopause 

Use at the lowest dose that Use for the shortest time Check with your doctor every 3 to 6 months to see if you still need it. 

or workplace. Regular exercise might also bring relief. Ask your doctor about taking an antidepressant medicine. These medicines can be helpful for some women. 

● Vaginal dryness. Use an over-thecounter vaginal lubricant. There are 

also prescription estrogen replacement creams that your doctor might give 

you. If you have spotting or bleeding from estrogen creams, see your doctor. 

● Problems sleeping. Avoid alcohol, 

caffeine, large meals, and working right before bedtime. Try to keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature. Avoid napping during the day and try to go to bed and get up at the same times every day. Exercise can also help. But avoid exercise close to bedtime. 

● Memory problems. Ask your doctor 

about mental exercises you can do to improve your memory. Try to get enough sleep and be physically active. 

● Mood swings. Try to get enough 

sleep and be physically active. Ask your doctor about relaxation exercises you can do. Ask your doctor about 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
n antidepressant medicine, ● If you drink alcohol, drink


ould help. moderately. Limit it to no more than


lot of ways to stay healthy one drink per day.


ime in your life: ● Control your weight. Ask your


e and get more exercise. doctor what a healthy weight is for 

you. 

t at least 30 minutes on most


he week. Try weight-bearing ● Talk to your doctor about bone


s, like walking, running, or health. Ask if you’re getting enough


calcium and vitamin D. Get a bone


moke, quit. Ask your doctor density test if you’re older than 65, or 

if your doctor says you have a high 

thy. Eat lots of whole-grain	 chance of getting osteoporosis. Ask about taking medicine to help preserve 

, vegetables, and fruits. bone and slow down bone loss. 

oods low in fat and


rol. ● Get preventive screenings. Have


ugh calcium to keep your	 your blood pressure, cholesterol, and trong. Before menopause, blood sugar checked. Have a breast
 exam and a breast x-ray
 

d about 1,000 mg of calcium (mammogram). 

After menopause, you need


g per day. 


ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 21 
uctive Health 

w that your reproductive heroin and cocaine, or for legal drugs for chlamydia, gonorrhea, 

one of the most fragile like insulin. If you get a tattoo or body hepatitis B and C, HIV, and 

body? It can easily get piercing, make sure the needles are syphilis. Get screened as soon as you 

ed, and, if it does, you sterile. think you may be pregnant. 

term health problems. ● Talk with your sex partner(s) ● If you have HIV and are pregnant, 

eps to prevent getting or about STDs, HIV, and using you can lower the chances of 

IDS and other sexually condoms. For information, call the giving HIV to your baby by taking 

ases (STDs) will pay off National STD hotline at 800-227-8922. medicine. Talk to your doctor. 

f and for those you love. ● Talk frankly with your doctor or 

n take: nurse and your sex partner(s) 

some methods of birth about any STDs you or your 

e birth control pills, partner have or had. Talk about any 

ants, or diaphragms, sores or discharge in the genital area. 

otect you from HIV or If you are living with HIV, be sure to 

 If you use one of these tell your partner and your doctor.


sure to also use a latex ● Have regular pelvic exams. Talk


ental dam (used for oral with your doctor about how often you


y every time you have sex. need them. Ask your doctor to test you


 needles or IV drug for STDs. 

for illegal drugs like ● If you are pregnant, get screened 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
cal Health 

 cancer is a disease that you ● If you have sex, stay with one with sores or infected genital skin that 

elp prevent. It happens when partner who only has sex with looks normal. 

s in the cervix change into you. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is ● Ask your doctor about an HPV 

 Before the cells turn into a group of viruses that can be passed test. In combination with a Pap test, 

ormal cells develop on the through sex. HPV can cause abnormal an HPV test helps prevent cervical 

an be found by a Pap test. changes on the cervix that can lead to cancer. It can detect the types of HPV 

cervix before the abnormal cervical cancer. Using condoms every that cause cervical cancer. 

e cancerous can prevent time you have sex may reduce your ● Eat a healthy, balanced diet with 

er. chances of getting HPV. HPV can also delicious fruits and vegetables. In 

u can take: be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact particular, carotene and vitamins C 

and E may reduce the risk of cervical 

s between 10 and 20 days 

ap test. The best time to get a 

cancer. Carotene is found in tomatoes, 

first day of your last period. carrots, sweet potatoes, and broccoli. 

ave the test done when you You can get vitamin C by eating fruits 

r period and don’t use and vegetables. Load up on oranges, 

 vaginal medicines (unless green and red peppers, broccoli, and 

tor tells you to), spermicide strawberries. Good sources of vitamin 

reams, or jellies two days E include sunflower seeds, almonds, 

our Pap test. Talk to your and peanuts.


bout how often to get Pap tests.
 ● Don’t smoke. 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 23 
 Eyes and Ears 

hearing loss can happen example, adults with diabetes should such as attending rock concerts or 

● Ask your doctor if your medicines 

 Other problems with have yearly eye exams. Other people at using a snowmobile. 

ars can happen as you higher risk include African Americans ● Prevent ear infections. Wash your 

Prevention, early detection, over age 40, people with a family hands frequently. 

ment for injury or disease history of eye disease, or those with a 

ears will help you enjoy history of eye injury. are safe. Some medicine can hurt 

nd a better quality life. ● Wear protective eyewear, such as your ears. 

n take: safety glasses, safety goggles, or face 

es examined according shields when working with materials 

dule: that can harm eyes. 

the ages of 20 and 39, ● Protect your eyes during sports.


eyes checked if you have Wear protective eyewear made of


 or visual changes polycarbonate plastic and fitted by an 

 to four years between the eye care professional.


0 to 65 ● Get a hearing exam every 10 years
 between the ages of 18 and 49 and


o 2 years at age 65 and every 3 years after that.
 

● Wear earplugs when doing loud 

her risk for eye diseases activities (ones above 90 decibels), 

xamined more often. For 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
ectal Health 

tal cancer is the third most ● Try to stay at a healthy weight. Ask members developed cancer at a young
 

osed cancer in women, your doctor about a healthy weight age, talk with your doctor about testing


east and lung cancers. range for you. at an earlier age.


ancer is often called a "silent" ● Consume alcoholic beverages in
 

ause symptoms don’t always moderation, if at all. For women,


l it is difficult to cure. The good drink no more than one drink per day.
 

colorectal cancer is preventable
 ● Avoid salt-cured, pickled, and 

curable when detected early smoked foods. 

ular screening tests. 

● If you smoke, quit. Ask your doctor 

u can take: or nurse for help. 

 low-fat, high-fiber diet.	 ● Get regular physical activity. 

a variety of vegetables, natural 

and fruits. ● When you turn 50, start getting
 regular colorectal screening


er taking calcium exams. These include yearly rectal 

ments and a daily exams and stool blood tests, as well as 

amin with 0.4 mg of folic sigmoidoscopy every 5 years and
 

so increase intake of foods
 colonoscopy every 10 years. If family 

h levels of vitamins C, A, and D. 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 25 
 Lungs 

ves your body the oxygen 

stay alive. So it’s 

ep your respiratory system 

have no trouble breathing. 

an take: 

e. If you do smoke, quit. 

ctor or nurse for help. 

Exercise helps you 

er. But if you live in an 

pollution, take these 

r your exposure to air 

ercise early in the day or 

g and avoid congested 

ush hour traffic. 

nd-hand smoke. Inhaling 

smoke of others can be 

or you and your children. 

Protect yourself and family at Avoid asthma and allergy triggers. home. Test your home for dangerous Stay away from things make your levels of radon and asbestos. Call your asthma and allergies worse. local health department for help. Protect yourself at work. Use a respirator when working with harmful chemicals, like asbestos, that can hurt your lungs. See your doctor immediately if you have these symptoms: persistent cough, chest pain that worsens by breathing deeply, hoarseness, weight loss and loss of appetite, bloody spit or phlegm, shortness of breath, recurring bronchitis and pneumonia, or a new onset of wheezing. 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
hy Smile 

ral health helps you have a lot right away if your gums bleed often, if ● Have an oral exam before 

than a pretty smile—it also you see any red or white patches on beginning cancer treatment. This 

overall health. Keep your teeth, the gums or tongue, have mouth or will help prevent or limit other oral 

mouth healthy by having jaw pain that won’t go away, have sores problems or tissue damage. 

 exams, practicing good oral that do not heal within two weeks, or if 

d eating a healthy diet. you have problems swallowing or 

u can take:	 chewing. 

uoridated water and use ● If you are pregnant, have an oral 

e toothpaste. Fluoride exam early in your pregnancy.


against tooth decay at all ages. ● Don’t smoke. Smoking raises your


our teeth at least twice risk for getting gum disease, oral and 

y. Aim for first thing in the throat cancers, and oral fungal


g and before going to bed. infections. 


day, use floss or an interdental ● Have a well-balanced, nutritious


to clean between teeth to diet. Limit sugary foods.


food that your toothbrush ● If you have diabetes, practice


good oral hygiene to prevent gum 

r dentist twice a year for disease. 

exam. Make an appointment 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 27 
 Skin 

ur body’s largest organ, or higher every day. Put on sunscreen: slightly raised. See your doctor right
 

u against heat, light, 1) 30 minutes before going out, 2) away if you find anything unusual.


tion. Tanned skin is not a Every 2 hours, and 3) After swimming,


alth. It means that your sweating, or drying off.


urt by the sun’s ultraviolet ● Accessorize! Wear protective
 

much sun without


ause skin damage, eye


more serious health


as skin cancer and lip


d news is that you can


otect your natural beauty


clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, and long pants. If you can’t wear long shirts and pants, try to stay in the shade and wear sunscreen. Keep your eyes safe with wraparound sunglasses with 100 

 percent UV ray protection. 

an take:	 ● Don’t use tanning beds. Rays from 

ays. Stay inside or in the tanning beds and sunlamps are just as 

the sun’s rays are the dangerous and sometimes more 

his is between 10 a.m. and dangerous than the sun’s rays. 

ys can also reach you on ● Check your skin often. Look for 

and during any season. changes in size, texture, or color of 

een. Use broad-spectrum moles or birthmarks or patches on the 

nd lipscreen with SPF 15 skin that look dry, scaly, reddish, and 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
ry Tract Health 

unctioning of the urinary sex. After you pass urine or have a ● Wear underwear with a cotton
 

s a natural part of your day— bowel movement (BM), wipe from crotch.


hat you probably don’t think front to back.


l you have a problem. The ● Drink water every day and 
 

t makes and stores urine.
 after sex. 

ak-teer-ee-uh), a type of germ ● Clean the outer lips of your 

o your urinary tract, causes a vagina and anus each day. The anus 

t infection, or UTI. This is the place where a bowel movement 

n happen in parts of your leaves your body, located between the 

t, like your kidneys, bladder, buttocks. 

yuh-ree-thra). There are steps 

e to try to prevent a UTI. But ● Don’t use douches or feminine 

ow these steps and still get a hygiene sprays. 

have symptoms of a UTI, call ● If you get a lot of UTIs and use 

 spermicides, or creams that kill 

u can take: sperm, talk to your doctor about using other forms of birth 

when you need to. Don’t control. 

Pass urine before and after 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 29 
e in Your Life 

d abuse affect all kinds of 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in papers and items—in a place where 

ry day. It doesn’t matter English, Spanish, and other languages. you can get them quickly. 

ture you come from, how This helpline can give you the phone ● Contact your family court or 

u have, or if you have a numbers of local hotlines and other domestic violence court. Get 

most common among resources. information about a civil protection 

ages 15 and 54, but it ● Don’t keep it to yourself. Get help. order.
 

ny age. If you are being Talk with someone: a family member,
 

a loved one who is friend, colleague, or faith counselor.
 

k there is abuse, get help
 ● If you’ve been hurt, get medical 

an. attention and call the police. 

an take:	 Abuse is a crime and you have rights. 

ice or leave if you or ● Set aside some money and choose 

en are in danger! Call a a place to go. If you decide to leave, 

 or the National Domestic you’ll be prepared. Put important 

line at 800-799-SAFE or papers—marriage license, birth


7-3224, which is available certificates, checkbook, and other


Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
hy Weight 

althy diet and physical ● Get your calcium-rich foods. Get 3 grill it. Vary your protein choices with 

ty are contributing factors to cups of low-fat or fat-free milk-or an more fish, beans, peas, nuts, and seeds. 

verweight or obese. Being equivalent amount of low-fat yogurt ● Limit saturated fats. Get less than 10 

raises the risk of having these and/or low-fat cheese (11/2 ounces of percent of calories from saturated fatty 

ems: heart disease, type 2 cheese equals 1 cup of milk)-every acids. Most fats should come from 

gh blood pressure, stroke, day. If you don’t or can’t consume sources of polyunsaturated and 

roblems, arthritis, gallbladder milk, choose lactose-free milk monounsaturated fatty acids, such as 

eoarthritis, and some cancers. products and/or calcium-fortified fish, nuts, and vegetable oils. When 

u can take: foods and drinks. selecting and preparing meat, poultry, and milk choose lean, low-fat, or fat- 

n fruits. For a 2,000-calorie	 ● Make half your grains whole. Eat free. 

 will need 2 cups of fruit each	 at least 3 ounces of whole-grain 

1 small banana, 1 large	 cereals, breads, crackers, rice, or ● Limit salt. Get less than 2,300 mg of 

and 1/4 cup of dried apricots	 pasta every day. One ounce is about 1 sodium (approximately 1 teaspoon of 

hes. 	 slice of bread, 1 cup of breakfast salt) each day. cereal, or 1/2 cup of cooked rice or 

ur veggies. Eat more dark ● Get moving. Thirty minutes of physical pasta. Look to see that grains such as 

ggies, such as broccoli, kale,	 activity on most days of the week can wheat, rice, oats, or corn are referred 

er dark leafy greens; orange	 greatly improve your health. to as “whole” in the list of ingredients. 

such as carrots, and sweet 

 and beans and peas. ● Go lean with protein. Choose lean
 meats and poultry. Bake it, broil it, or


ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 31 
s 

take steps to prevent ● Lose 5 to 7 percent of your body Have a complete foot exam every year. 

 you also lower your risk weight. Choose low-fat foods and ● Mouth problems. Twice a year, have 

e, stroke, kidney disease, foods high in fiber. Eat low-fat dairy a dentist clean your teeth and check 

mputation. Small changes products, lean cuts of meat, fish, your gums. Use dental floss at least 

can make a difference. poultry, fruits, and vegetables. once a day. Brush your teeth with a 

an take:	 Prevent Health Problems soft toothbrush after each meal 

 Get 30 minutes of	 Caused by Diabetes ● Nerve damage. Nerve problems can 

vity most days of the week.	 ● Eye disease and blindness. Control come in many forms. Tell your doctor 

your blood sugar and blood pressure if you have any problems in your feet, and get a dilated eye exam once a year. legs, hands, or arms or problems 

● Kidney disease. Control blood sugar digesting food or with urination. 

and blood pressure. See your doctor if ● Flu and pneumonia. Get a flu shot your urine is cloudy or bloody, if you every year. Also ask your doctor about feel like you have to urinate often, or if getting a shot to protect you from you have pain or burning when you pneumonia. urinate. Have a urine test once a year. ● Stiff hands. Keep your blood sugar 

● Foot problems. Check your feet under control and stretch your hands. 

every day for cuts, sores, bumps, Using clay or putty can keep your blisters, or red spots. Ask your doctor hands strong. to check your feet at every office visit. 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
nal Centers of Excellence

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 

onal Centers of Excellence in 

alth (CoE), and the 14 

mmunity Centers of Excellence 

Health (CCOE) are health care 

ems that focus on health care 

Their goals are to provide 

ive care to women across the 

n environment supportive of 

of Excellence in Women’s Health (CoE) 

women. The goal is to treat you as a whole woman. This means when you visit a doctor or nurse they make sure that you are seen or referred for other services you may need. So, if you need immunizations, Pap tests, mammograms, dental work, heart treatment, or help dealing with stress, you can get it all in one facility! 

To contact a CoE or CCOE near you, please visit our web sites: CoEs: www.WomensHealth.gov/COE/ centers/index.htm CCOEs: www.WomensHealth.gov/owh/ CCOE/index.htm 

Oregon Health & Science University Portland, OR Phone: 503-418-4500 Tulane/Xavier Universities of Louisiana New Orleans, LA Phone: 877-588-5100 University of Arizona Tucson, AZ Phone: 520-694-6010 

rsity Medical Center Indiana University School of Medicine 

Indianapolis, IN 

638-7428 or 9563 Phone: 317-630-2243 

rsity/Women & Infants Hospital Magee Womens Hospital 

RI Pittsburgh, PA 

274-1100 Phone: 412-641-4747 

ersity MCP Hahnemann University 

(doing business as Drexel University) 

732-8866 Philadelphia, PA 

Phone: 215-842-7007 

33 
ornia at Los Angeles 

2631 

ornia at San Francisco 

2668 

ois at Chicago 

002 

igan Health System 

8886 

University of Minnesota Minneapolis, MN Phone: 612-626-3444 University of Mississippi Jackson, MS Phone: 601-815-3281 University of Missouri- Kansas City Kansas City, MO Phone: 816-404-5165 University of Puerto Rico San Juan, PR Phone: 787-758-2525 ext. 2813 or 787-764-3707 

University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio San Antonio,TX Phone: 210-567-5035 University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI Phone: 608-267-5566 Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond, VA Phone: 866-829-6626 West Virginia University Health Sciences Center Morgantown, WV Phone: 304-598-4880 

CoE Demonstration Projects 

h Dakota 

3255 

University of South Dakota Sioux Falls, SD Phone: 605-357-1500 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
ity Centers of Excellence in Women’s Health (CCOE) 

re Health Services Mariposa Community Health Center 

DE Nogales, AZ 

428-4414 Phone: 520-281-1550 

of Greely County Morton Plant Hospital 

Clearwater, FL 

376-4251 Phone: 727-467-2546 

al North Point Health & Wellness 

Minneapolis, MN 

732-0699 Phone: 612-302-4600 

lth System Northeast Missouri Health Council, Inc. 

AL Women’s Care Connection 

918-2364 Kirksville, MO 

Valley Comprehensive Phone: 660-627-5757 or 660-626-2262 

es NorthEast Ohio Neighborhood 

Health Services, Inc. 

848-0976 Cleveland, OH 

Phone: 216-231-7700 

ntier Women’s Health Coordinating Centers 

ciation of Community Health Utah Navajo Health System, Inc. 

Montezuma Creek, UT Phone: 435-651-3291 

253-0090 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 

Northeastern Vermont Area Health Education
Center
St. Johnsbury, VT
Phone: 802-748-7300
Oakhurst Medical Centers Inc.
Stone Mountain, GA
Phone: 404-298-7562
St. Barnabas Healthcare System and Hospital
Bronx, NY
Phone: 718-960-9358
Women’s Health Services
Santa Fe, NM
Phone: 505-988-8869
Women’s Wellness and Maternity Center, Inc.
Madisonville, TN
Phone: 423-442-6624 or 800-440-3385


35 
 with your Doctor or Nurse 

talk to your doctor or and other supplements you’re taking. don’t understand something, ask to 

you get the information Be honest about your diet, physical have it explained again. 

ke better health care activity, smoking, alcohol or drug use, ● Bring a family member or friend with 

are some tips: and sexual history. Discuss allergies to you to take notes and offer moral 

f health concerns and drugs, foods, or other things. Tell your support. An extra pair of eyes and ears 

take with you to your visit. doctor or nurse if you are being can help you remember your 

with your doctor or treated by another doctor or nurse, questions as well as the answers. including a mental health professional. 

mptoms clearly and briefly. ● Don’t be afraid to ask questions and 

symptoms are, when they don’t feel embarrassed about 

hey make you feel, what discussing sensitive topics. Your 

m, what (if anything) doctor or nurse is used to talking to 

stop, and what you’ve people about personal concerns. 

ve them. This helps your Don’t leave something out because


e the best course of you’re worried about taking up too


ong with any tests you much time.


● Be sure you understand everything


tor or nurse what before you leave. This includes 

and over-the-counter treatment recommendations and any


tamins, herbal products, follow-up tests or referrals. If you


Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 
klist of Questions to ask your Doctor or Nurse

Health and Wellness Questions 

n do I need a physical exam, breast exam, pelvic 

d Pap test? 

d a flu shot or other immunizations? 

nging my lifestyle (diet, exercise, smoking, drinking) 

avoid certain diseases? What can I do to be more 

Is there any reading material or videotapes on these 

Are there support groups or community services that 

? 

est Questions 

l we know after the test is done? 

❑ How do I find out the results? How long will it take to get the 

results? 

❑ What does the test involve? What do I do to get ready for it? ❑ Are there any dangers or side effects with the test? Symptoms and Diagnosis Questions ❑ Could my symptoms be caused by or related to something 

other than my current condition? 

❑ What may have caused my current condition? 

ional Women’s Health Information Center web site: www.WomensHealth.gov 37 
Questions Medication Questions (you can also ask your 

ondition treated or managed? What long-term pharmacist) 

y) will it have on my life? ❑ What are the side effects? 

ould treatment start? How long will it last? ❑ What should I do if I miss a dose? 

her treatments available? ❑ Are there foods, drugs, or activities I should avoid while 

taking this medicine? 

will the treatment cost? Is it covered by insurance? 

❑ Is there a generic brand available at a lower price? 

treatment’s risks and side effects? 

Call for free health publications: 1-800-994-9662 TDD: 1-888-220-5446 

Room 712E 

1-800-994-9662 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health 200 Independence Ave, SW Washington, DC 20201 

www.WomensHealth.gov TDD: 1-888-220-5446