This year, at 46, I went for my usual routine doctor visits for women in their 40s. As always, the doctor started with a chat — catching up on my lifestyle, how much I exercise, what my diet looks like, and if I have any particular concerns. This time, I did have a specific complaint: knee pain, thanks to a running injury. After checking and confirming it was nothing serious, we moved on to what really matters at these appointments for women over 40 who aren’t dealing with special health issues. The routine checkups.



What Really Happens at Routine Doctor Visits for Women in Their 40s

Most people think a routine checkup is just about blood work and maybe a quick physical exam. But after 40, there are a few key things your doctor should really pay attention to — even if you feel perfectly healthy.

Essential Checkups After 40

  1. Blood Tests & Blood Pressure These are the basics, but after 40, your doctor will probably want a deeper look — not just the classic cholesterol, but blood sugar (for diabetes risk), thyroid function, iron, vitamin D, and B12. If you have a family history of anything (diabetes, cholesterol, thyroid), mention it. Blood pressure? That’s a given — at every appointment.
  2. Mammogram This is the one everyone talks about after 40, and for good reason. Most guidelines recommend starting mammograms between 40 and 45. Every 1–2 years is typical, unless you have a strong family history or your doctor suggests otherwise.

    It’s also standard for doctors to request a breast ultrasound alongside the mammogram. These two exams are complementary: the ultrasound helps detect details that might not be visible on a mammogram, especially for women with dense breast tissue — which is very common after 40. In Portugal, most routine checkups for women include both, and together they provide a much clearer picture of breast health.

    I have to say, my own experience with the mammogram was actually very positive. I was a bit apprehensive at first because I’d always heard it could be painful, uncomfortable, or even difficult to go through. Since it was my first time, I was honestly surprised at how quick and easy it felt. Even better, I left feeling relieved and grateful, knowing everything was perfectly fine with my breasts. If you’re still hesitating, I can’t recommend enough getting your checkup done — it’s so much better to know everything is okay than to risk a nasty surprise down the road.

  3. Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Smear & HPV Test) Yes, this one continues into your 40s. Depending on your last results, it might be every three to five years. If you’re over 40 and haven’t had an HPV test together with your Pap, ask about it. It’s quick, uncomfortable for a moment, but can save your life. I had my cervical cancer screening two years ago, so I’ll be due for my next test next year. Keeping track of when you last did each exam makes it easier to stay on schedule
  4. Colorectal Cancer Screening The new standard is to start screening at 45, but if you’re nearing that or have family history, it’s worth discussing now. The colonoscopy is the classic, but there are stool-based tests (FIT, FOBT) that are easier to start with. Don’t put this off — it’s rarely as bad as we imagine. In my case, I chose to start with the stool-based tests instead of going straight to a colonoscopy. My doctor explained that if the stool tests come back normal, there’s usually no need for further testing right away. Only if something unusual shows up do they recommend a colonoscopy. On the other hand, he also pointed out that if you go ahead and do a colonoscopy, you get the peace of mind of a longer “all clear” period before having to repeat anything. It’s a balance between convenience and certainty — and whichever option you choose, the important thing is not to ignore this checkup.
Routine doctor visits for women in their 40s: a smiling woman in her 40s holds a clipboard and coffee cup, preparing for a medical appointment in a bright office.



Extra Screenings – If You or Your Doctor Have Concerns

Some exams aren’t necessary for everyone at every visit. These next checkups are usually recommended if you (or your doctor) have a specific concern, family history, or notice something unusual. If you have any doubts or feel that “something isn’t right,” it’s always worth asking about these at your appointment.

  1. Bone Density (Osteoporosis Screening) If you have risk factors for osteoporosis — like early menopause, family history, low body weight, or if you’ve broken a bone as an adult — your doctor might suggest a bone density scan (DEXA). Even if you feel fine, it’s worth bringing up, because prevention is always easier than treatment.
  2. Eye Exam Vision can change in your 40s, often without you noticing. A regular eye exam every 2–4 years (or sooner if you have symptoms or conditions like diabetes) helps catch problems like glaucoma, cataracts, or early signs of other health issues.
  3. Dental Checkup A routine dental exam (every 6–12 months) isn’t glamorous, but it’s important. Regular visits help catch gum disease and other problems early, which only get more common with age. A healthy mouth really does make life easier.
  4. Skin Check (Dermatologist) If you’ve had a lot of sun exposure, or just want to stay on the safe side, consider an annual skin check with a dermatologist. They can spot anything unusual or changes in moles long before you would notice them.

🩺 Want to stay organized with your checkups? Download my Free Doctor’s Visits Logbook to keep track of your appointments, tests, and results — all in one place.

Routine doctor visits for women in their 40s: an African American woman smiles while talking to her female doctor during a friendly medical consultation, both sitting at a desk with coffee cups.

Good Questions to Ask at Your Routine Doctor Visit

  • Based on my history and age, am I due for any new screenings or tests?
  • Are there any results in my blood work that I should pay special attention to?
  • Given my family history, should I be screened earlier or more often for certain conditions?
  • What’s the best way to monitor my bone health at this stage?
  • Are my vaccines up to date? Is there anything I should consider (flu, tetanus, shingles, etc.)?
  • Should I be concerned about any changes I’ve noticed in my body (e.g., skin, digestion, sleep, energy)?
  • When should I come back for follow-up or repeat screenings?
  • Is there anything I can do now to lower my risk for cancer, heart disease, or osteoporosis?
  • Are there lifestyle changes you recommend based on my results or risk factors?
  • For any abnormal test, what’s the next step and how urgent is it?
  • If something worries me between checkups, what’s the best way to reach out or get help quickly?

Recommended reading:
If you want to dive deeper into women’s health after 40, I recommend Healthy Body for Life: A Guide for Women Over Forty (affiliate link). It’s practical, honest, and covers exactly what really matters at this stage.



Routine doctor visits for women in their 40s: flat lay of a desk with a doctor visits notebook, pink breast cancer ribbon, glasses, tea, almonds, and a pen.

Final Thoughts on Routine Doctor Visits for Women in Their 40s

Taking care of your health in your 40s doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. Most of these routine checkups are simple and offer a lot of peace of mind. The real goal is to catch anything early, so you can keep living the life you want. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or speak up about any concerns — these visits are for you. Prioritize yourself now, so you can feel confident about what’s ahead.

Note: This post is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for recommendations tailored to your own health.