Preventive check-ups for women: Important health checks according to age & procedure

Aim and benefits of regular health checks

Regular check-ups serve to detect potential illnesses at an early stage – often before the first symptoms appear. This significantly increases the chances of recovery and enables targeted treatment. Especially in the case of cancers such as breast cancer or cervical cancer, early diagnosis can be life-saving.

In addition to early cancer detection, preventive check-ups also include general health checkswhich can identify risk factors for cardiovascular disease, diabetes or osteoporosis.

Which diseases can be detected at an early stage?

Regular examinations help to detect a variety of diseases in good time, including

• Breast cancer and cervical cancer (by mammography, Pap smear, HPV test)
• Colon cancer (through stool tests or colonoscopy)
• Cardiovascular diseases (through blood pressure and cholesterol measurement)
• Diabetes (due to blood sugar levels)
• Osteoporosis (through bone density measurement)

Regular check-ups are crucial for detecting illnesses early and treating them in good time. Depending on age, individual stage of life and family history, there are special health checks that women should definitely take advantage of.

1. gynecological check-ups

Gynecological screening is an essential part of women’s health. It helps to detect diseases of the female reproductive system at an early stage and treat them in a targeted manner.

• Annual check-up at the gynecologist: Why it is crucial for your health

Women should have a gynecological examination at least once a year. The doctor will check the health of the reproductive organs, take a smear test if necessary and discuss individual complaints or questions about contraception, menstruation or the menopause.

• Pap smear and HPV test: why they should be carried out from the age of 20

The Pap smear is a proven method for the early detection of cervical cancer. It is carried out regularly from the age of 20. In addition, an HPV test is recommended for women over 35, as human papillomaviruses (HPV) can contribute significantly to the development of cervical cancer.

• Breast cancer screening: self-examination and medical palpation from the age of 30

Women over 30 should regularly palpate their breasts themselves in order to detect changes at an early stage. In addition, a medical palpation examination by a gynecologist is recommended.

• Ultrasound examination: When is it recommended?

A gynaecological ultrasound can be carried out in addition to the palpation examination to detect abnormalities in the uterus or ovaries. This examination can be particularly useful if there is a family history or symptoms.

2. other important early detection examinations

In addition to gynecological screening, there are other important check-ups that help women to maintain their general health.

• Skin cancer screening: Why every woman should see a dermatologist regularly

From the age of 35, health insurance covers skin cancer screening every two years. If you have many moles or a family history of skin cancer, you should be screened earlier.

• Colorectal cancer screening: important tests from the age of 50

Bowel cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer. Women over 50 should have regular stool tests and undergo a colonoscopy for early detection.

• Diabetes and high blood pressure: recognizing risk factors from the age of 35

From the age of 35, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and blood pressure is recommended in order to detect diabetes or cardiovascular diseases at an early stage.

• Cardiovascular check: early detection of high blood pressure and cholesterol levels

A cardiovascular check includes measuring blood pressure, cholesterol levels and, if necessary, an ECG. Women who are overweight, lack exercise or have a family history should take these examinations particularly seriously.

3. special health checks for certain phases of life

A woman’s health needs change over the course of her life. Here are some special examinations for certain stages of life:

• Pregnancy and postnatal care: what do I need to consider?

During pregnancy, regular check-ups are essential to monitor the health of mother and child. After the birth, postnatal check-ups should also not be neglected in order to detect possible complications at an early stage.

• Menopause and hormone screening: which tests and treatments are advisable?

During the menopause, women experience hormonal changes that can have various health effects. A hormone check can help to better understand individual complaints and provide targeted treatment.

• Osteoporosis prevention: at what age does it make sense?

Women over 50 should consider a bone density test, especially if osteoporosis runs in the family. Early prevention can help to minimize the risk of bone fractures.

4. mental health and stress management

Mental health plays just as important a role as physical health.

• Psychological counseling: Why mental health should also be part of preventive care

Stress, anxiety or depressive moods are common, but are often not taken seriously enough. Psychological counseling can help to develop strategies for coping with stress at an early stage.

• Depression and anxiety disorders: Early detection and its importance for general health

Mental illnesses such as depression or anxiety disorders should not be ignored. Regular check-ups with a GP or specialist can help to identify and treat them at an early stage.

Preventive check-ups are an essential part of healthcare, but not all check-ups are automatically covered by statutory health insurance. Here we explain which services are covered, which costs women have to bear themselves and what options private insurance companies offer.

What is covered by statutory health insurance?

The statutory health insurance companies in Germany cover many important preventive check-ups for women in order to detect serious illnesses at an early stage.

A. Cost coverage for preventive check-ups: Details on the important check-ups

The following examinations are generally covered by statutory health insurance:

1. Gynecological screening: Once a year from the age of 20, including Pap smear for the early detection of cervical cancer.
2. HPV test: From the age of 35 every three years as a combination test with the Pap smear.
3. Breast cancer screening:
   • Medical palpation examination from the age of 30.
   • Mammography screening every two years for women aged between 50 and 69.
4. Colorectal cancer screening:
   • Stool test annually from the age of 50.
   • Colonoscopy from the age of 50 for men and from the age of 55 for women (two examinations possible at intervals of 10 years).
5. Skin cancer screening: Every two years from the age of 35.
6. Diabetes and high blood pressure check: Every three years from the age of 35 as part of the “health check-up”.
7. Cardiovascular check: Part of the general check-up from the age of 35, including blood pressure measurement and cholesterol values.

B. Additional services that are not covered: Where women have to pay themselves

Some important preventive examinations are considered individual health services (IGeL) and are not covered by statutory health insurance. These include:

• Ultrasound examination of the ovaries and uterus – recommended for early detection, but only paid for by the health insurance fund in case of suspicion.

• Breast ultrasound (mammasonography) – Complementary method to mammography, particularly useful for dense breast tissue.

• Detailed hormone tests – Relevant during the menopause or in the case of an unfulfilled desire to have children.

• Bone density measurement (early detection of osteoporosis) – is only covered if there is a high risk.

• Extended laboratory tests (e.g. micronutrient analysis) – Useful for individual health checks, but usually subject to a charge.

C. Private insurance and extras: What private insurance offers

Privately insured women often benefit from a more comprehensive range of services. Many private health insurance companies cover:

• Annual ultrasound examinations of the breast and uterus
• Extended preventive examinations, e.g. detailed hormone analyses
• Earlier or more frequent colorectal cancer and skin cancer screenings
• Individually tailored health checks depending on the risk profile

The importance of supplementary insurance

For those with statutory health insurance, private supplementary insurance can be useful in order to benefit from extended preventive measures.

Private supplementary insurance for preventive care: is supplementary insurance for women worthwhile?

Supplementary insurance can help to cover the costs of certain preventive measures that are not covered by statutory health insurance. It is particularly recommended for women with an increased health risk or family history.

Advantages of supplementary insurance for preventive care:

• • Extended cancer screening (e.g. breast and ovarian cancer checks)
  • Comprehensive hormonal diagnostics during the menopause or in case of cycle disorders
  • Subsidies for alternative treatment methods (e.g. naturopathy)
  • Reimbursement for early detection of osteoporosis

Additional examinations: Important tests and preventive measures that are not covered by statutory benefits

Some examinations make medical sense, but are not covered by statutory health insurance. Women should decide individually whether to invest in these measures:

• Advanced blood tests to check for vitamin and mineral deficiencies
• Additional ultrasound examinations for breast, uterus or ovaries
• Special colorectal cancer screening methods such as the Septin9 test
• Detailed metabolic analyses for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases

Check-ups are the first step towards early diagnosis and effective treatment. But how can you make these checks an integral part of your lifestyle and prepare for them in the best possible way? Here we show you why regular health checks are important and how you can take the right steps to get in-depth, precise diagnoses rather than just superficial tests.

Establish regular health checks as a routine

Why is it important to take prevention seriously?
Preventive care is more than just a ‘tick list’ of tests – it’s an important investment in your long-term health. Regular, thorough health checks can help you identify potential health problems before they become serious illnesses. Reacting to problems early often means that they can be treated more easily and efficiently.

Preventive healthcare as part of your lifestyle: practical tips for regular preventive care

1. Make regular appointments: Schedule health check-ups firmly into your calendar – just like you would a dentist appointment.
2. Stay informed: Pay attention to new developments in the field of medical screening and ask your doctor about modern methods that may provide better results.
3. Change your perspective: Don’t see preventive check-ups as a burden, but as an opportunity to actively maintain your health.

Screenings not only help to detect early symptoms, but also give you the assurance that you are doing everything you can for your health. Our comprehensive examinations go far beyond simple routine checks and offer you in-depth analyses based on the latest medical standards and technologies. This gives you exactly the information you need to take proactive action.

How best to prepare for check-ups

Good preparation is the key to getting the most out of your screening. Detailed preparation ensures that you receive the right information and that the examinations offer you the greatest benefit.

Take questions and information with you to the doctor
To optimize the conversation with your doctor, it is important to be well prepared:

• Medical history: Make a list of illnesses in your family and your own health problems that could be relevant.
• Make a note of symptoms: Even minor symptoms that you may not notice in everyday life can provide valuable information for the doctor.
• Ask questions: Don’t be shy! Ask about the latest tests that are specifically tailored to your needs or about possible new technologies that can make your diagnosis more accurate.

Clearly define the goals of the preventive medical check-up: What do you want to find out?
Think in advance about what you want to take away from the examination. Do you want to find out more about your cancer screening? Or do you want a thorough examination of your cardiovascular system? Clearly defined goals help the doctor to focus on the relevant areas and give you the best possible advice.

Psychological aspects: How to reduce anxiety before the examination
It is completely normal to be nervous before an examination. Many people feel anxious or unsure. But you can reduce these fears by informing yourself well and realizing that an early diagnosis offers more opportunities for successful treatment.

In addition, in-depth and modern screening tests that go beyond the standard methods help to alleviate anxiety by providing accurate and detailed results. These comprehensive checks not only provide clarity, but also reassurance that all relevant areas of your body are being closely examined – far beyond the usual tests.

Well prepared for retirement – your key to a healthy future

By incorporating regular, thorough health checks into your lifestyle and preparing well for the examination, you can ensure that you receive the best possible care. These careful, precise diagnoses not only offer you clarity, but above all peace of mind.

With a well-planned check-up that incorporates modern technology and comprehensive tests, you will always know where you stand in terms of your health. It’s worth not just doing the basic tests, but getting a deeper insight into your health – so you can stay healthy and improve your quality of life.

Regular check-ups are crucial for the early detection and prevention of diseases. They not only help to detect serious health risks such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases or osteoporosis at an early stage, but also enable targeted advice on individual health issues.

But which examinations are really necessary? At what age should you start screening and how often do check-ups make sense? In our FAQ you will find clear answers to the most frequently asked questions about gynecological and general check-ups. This will help you keep track of important health checks and make informed decisions about your health.

1 At what age should you start taking preventive care?

From the age of 35 people with statutory health insurance are entitled to a general health check every three years.

Specific preventive check-ups are recommended from the age of 20, including annual gynecological cancer screening. From the age of 35, a comprehensive check-up for the early detection of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and kidney disease is included.

2 How often should I go for a check-up?

From the age of 35, a health check health check-up is possible from the age of 35, between 18 and 35 there is a one-off entitlement.

Regular examinations help to detect diseases at an early stage. Depending on their age and risk factors, women should also take advantage of other preventive services such as skin cancer or gynecological examinations.

3. are all preventive check-ups covered by health insurance?

All early detection examinations recommended by the G-BA are covered by the statutory health insurance funds and are free of charge.

These include check-ups from the age of 35, cancer screening, skin cancer screening and vaccinations. Individual health services (IGeL) are usually subject to a fee.

4 Which doctor’s appointments should I make regularly?

The most important examinations include Cancer screening, check-up from 35, skin cancer screening, eye and dental examinations.

Regular check-ups help to detect serious illnesses at an early stage. The exact intervals depend on age and individual risk factors.

5 Which check-ups are particularly important for women?

Important check-ups for women include

• Breast cancer screening (e.g. mammography)
• Cervical cancer screening (Pap smear, HPV test)
• General health checks such as the Check-up 35
• Skin cancer screening for the early detection of skin changes
• Colorectal cancer screening using a stool test or colonoscopy
• Dental care for healthy teeth and gums
• Chlamydia test for the detection of sexually transmitted infections
• HPV vaccination for the prevention of cervical cancer

An individually tailored check-up can help to combine all relevant examinations.

6 Which blood values should a woman have checked regularly?

The most important blood values that women should have checked regularly include

• Blood sugar (glucose and HbA1c) for the detection of diabetes
• Cholesterol values (HDL, LDL, triglycerides) to assess the cardiovascular risk
• Thyroid values (TSH, fT3, fT4) for the detection of hormone disorders
• Blood count (hemoglobin, erythrocytes, leukocytes) to check general health
• Iron and ferritin levels for the diagnosis of iron deficiency or anemia
• Vitamin D and B12 to control the nutrient supply

These values can be analyzed as part of a comprehensive health check-up.

7 How does a check-up for women differ from a general check-up?

A check-up for women takes gender-specific health risks into account and also includes gynecological examinations as well as hormonal and reproductive health screening. This includes breast cancer and cervical cancer screening, hormone analyses and individual risk assessments.

8. which preventive examinations can I have in addition to the standard check-up?

In addition to the usual health checks, it is also possible to have a one-off test for hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Depending on the individual health profile, ultrasound examinations, extended blood tests or hormonal analyses may be useful.

9. how can I adapt my preventive check-ups to my individual health risks?

Targeted anamnesis and risk assessment allow preventive check-ups to be customized. Women with a family history of certain diseases benefit from extended tests, such as a genetic analysis for the early detection of cancer or special cardiovascular checks.

10. which screening tests are particularly important for women with a family history of cancer?

Women with a hereditary risk of cancer should undergo more frequent screening, including:

• Mammography & breast MRI for the early detection of breast cancer
• HPV tests & colposcopy to monitor the risk of cervical cancer
• Colonoscopy for the early detection of bowel cancer
• Skin cancer screening for people with a family history of the disease

Genetic tests can also provide information about individual cancer risks.

1. how often does a woman need to go to the gynecologist?

Women aged 20 and over should have a gynecological check-up once a year.

This examination is used for the early detection of cervical cancer, breast cancer and other gynecological diseases. An HPV test is also recommended from the age of 35.

2 What is part of cancer screening at the gynecologist?

Cancer screening includes a gynecological examination, a Pap smear and an assessment of the genital skin region.

In addition, depending on age and risk factors, ultrasound examinations of the uterus or ovaries and an HPV test may be useful.

3 When should you have your first gynecologist appointment?

A first appointment between the ages of 18 and 20 is recommendedas long as there are no complaints or contraceptive issues beforehand.

Regular visits are important for the early detection of illnesses and for individual advice.

4 What cancer screening tests are available specifically for women?

Women should have regular check-ups for the early detection of the following types of cancer:

• Breast cancer: Self palpation, mammography, ultrasound, MRI if necessary
• Cervical cancer: Pap smear and HPV test
• Ovarian cancer: Ultrasound examination & tumor marker analysis
• Colorectal cancer: Stool test or colonoscopy

5 When and how often should I have a mammogram?

Women between the ages of 50 and 69 receive a written invitation to mammography screening every two years. Women at increased risk can be screened earlier or more frequently.

6 How often should I have a Pap smear?

For women aged 35 and over, a combined Pap smear and HPV test is recommended every three years. Younger women should continue to have the Pap test every year.

7. what examinations are available for the early detection of breast cancer apart from mammography?

In addition to mammography, early breast cancer detection includes

• Breast ultrasound examination (every 6 months from the age of 25 if there is an increased risk)
• MRI examination for women with a genetic predisposition or dense breast tissue

1. what is the preliminary stage of the menopause?

Before the menopause, we speak of the premenopause. This phase can last several years.

During the premenopause, oestrogen levels begin to fluctuate, which can lead to cycle changes and the first menopausal symptoms.

2 When is the menopause complete?

The menopause occurs on average around the age of 51/52. Then the postmenopause begins.

After the last menstrual period, oestrogen levels continue to fall, which can promote symptoms such as hot flushes or osteoporosis.

3. what are the 4 phases of the menopause?

The menopause is divided into premenopause, perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause.

Each phase is characterized by specific hormonal changes. The premenopause begins with irregular cycles, while in the postmenopause the symptoms subside.

4 Why do you gain weight on your stomach during the menopause?

Falling estrogen levels promote fat accumulation in the abdominal area.
At the same time, the metabolism slows down, causing the body to burn fat more slowly. A healthy diet and exercise can help to regulate weight.

5 What symptoms indicate an estrogen deficiency?

Typical signs are Hot flushes, sweating, sleep disorders, weight gain, dry skin and osteoporosis.
A falling oestrogen level can cause various symptoms. Depending on the symptoms, hormone therapy or lifestyle changes can help.

6 Which examinations are particularly important during the menopause?

A hormonal blood test can be carried out to determine the hormone status during the menopause. In addition, regular bone density measurements are recommended for the early detection of osteoporosis.

7 Can an estrogen deficiency or hormone disorders be detected by screening tests?

Yes, hormonal blood tests provide information about oestrogen levels and possible imbalances. These tests are particularly relevant for menopausal symptoms or cycle disorders.

1 What happens after an abnormal mammogram?

An abnormal mammogram does not automatically mean breast cancer. Further examinations such as a repeat mammogram or breast ultrasound are necessary.

Harmless changes such as cysts or calcifications are often the cause. If a malignant change is suspected, a biopsy can be carried out for further clarification.

2. how can cardiovascular disease in women be detected early?

Early warning signs of heart problems in women are:

• Shortness of breath, sweating, tiredness
• Chest or back pain
• Nausea & vomiting

Regular blood pressure measurements, cholesterol checks and heart examinations are essential for prevention.

1. which preventive check-ups should women aged 40 and over have?

Women over 40 should have regular blood test, blood pressure measurement, ECG, gynecological cancer screening and mammography. should be carried out.

These examinations are used for the early detection of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cancer. Depending on the individual risk, ultrasound examinations of the organs, a lung function test or osteoporosis screening may also be useful.

2 Which preventive check-ups are recommended from the age of 60?

The recommended preventive check-ups include Blood sugar and cholesterol tests, bowel cancer screening, bone density measurement, eye and hearing tests and skin cancer screening.

The risk of chronic diseases increases with age. Regular health checks help to detect high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis and cancer at an early stage and treat them in good time.

3 Which preventive medical check-ups should I have every year?

This includes gynecological cancer screening, dental screening and general health checks, depending on age.

The annual check-up includes a gynecologist’s examination, a visit to the dentist and, for older people, a check of blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

4 What is included in the health check at the GP?

The “Check-up 35” includes a medical history, physical examination, blood pressure measurement and the recording of individual risk factors.

In addition, blood and urine tests are carried out to detect diabetes, kidney or cardiovascular diseases at an early stage. Vaccination status is also checked.

5 What health checks are available for women aged 35 and over?

The Check-up 35 includes a clinical examination, blood and urine tests, vaccination check-up and assessment of individual health risks.

Blood pressure, cholesterol levels, kidney function and metabolism are checked. In addition, skin cancer screening, gynecological examinations and bowel cancer screening can be useful.

6. what comprehensive health check-up packages are available for women?

A comprehensive health check-up for women can include the following examinations:

• Gynecological check-up (incl. ultrasound)
• Mammography or breast ultrasound
• Detailed blood tests incl. hormone status
• Cardiovascular diagnostics (ECG, cholesterol check)
• Bone density measurement for the early detection of osteoporosis

An individually tailored check-up offers holistic preventive healthcare.

7 Which additional examinations are useful, even if they are not covered by health insurance?

Frequently used self-pay services include:

• Breast ultrasound for the early detection of cancer
• Ophthalmoscopy with intraocular pressure measurement for the early detection of glaucoma
• Advanced hormone analysis & genetic tests

Preventive check-ups are crucial for detecting illnesses early and treating them effectively. The earlier you take preventive measures, the greater your chances of avoiding health problems and maintaining your quality of life.

Our customized check-up plans for men take into account your individual needs, including lifestyle, age, family history and other important factors. Using the latest technology and advanced equipment, we provide early diagnostics that allow us to identify health risks often years before they occur.

It’s never too early or too late to start screening. Take the time to make an appointment today and find out about the relevant examinations that will protect and optimize your health. Rely on our expertise and state-of-the-art medical equipment for your long-term health.

And if you have a partner or loved one who could also benefit from a thorough check-up, take a look at our Check-up for men. You may also find useful information here that is of interest to your relatives.