March is Women’s Health Month, but the truth is that women need to take care of themselves 12 months out of the year, every year. Gurvinder Kaur, M.D., a family medicine specialist at Crystal Run Healthcare, took time to remind women of the importance of their own health and what they have to do to maintain it.

“Talking openly about women’s health helps raise awareness, encourages women to listen to their bodies, and supports earlier conversations with their providers,” Dr. Kaur said. “It also helps ensure that care and research continue to reflect women’s experiences at every stage of life.”

So let’s talk.

Women’s health: Age, changes and what to think about when

You have probably realized that you are not the same as you were 10 years ago. “The basics of good health stay the same at every stage of life, but what women pay closer attention to often changes with age,” Dr. Kaur said. “The goal is always the same: staying healthy, active and able to do the things that matter most.”

In your 20s and 30s: When you’re younger, build habits that last, she continued. “That includes regular checkups, preventive screenings, staying up to date on vaccinations, moving your body and paying attention to mental and emotional health.” 

In your 40s and 50s: Now you might see a shift. Think about perimenopause and menopause. “This is often when it becomes especially important to keep an eye on heart health, bone health, cholesterol and metabolic changes, and to talk openly with your doctor about what you are experiencing,” Dr. Kaur said. 

In your 60s and beyond: Think about your life. What do you want for your future? Often, independence matters. And there are a few issues to balance. “Preventing or managing chronic conditions, protecting cognitive health and preserving strength and mobility can all support healthy aging,” Dr. Kaur said.

Wellness underpins everything

“There are a few core habits that support women’s health at every stage of life,” Dr. Kaur said.

“Regular physical activity is one of the most powerful tools we have to protect long-term health. That includes movement that gets your heart rate up, as well as strength training to support muscles and bones. Many women aim for about 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, but consistency matters more than perfection.”

Remember that old saying, “You are what you eat?” “Nutrition also plays a key role,” Dr. Kaur said. “Eating a variety of whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats and whole grains helps support energy levels, heart health and overall well-being.”

Don’t overdo—and get enough rest. “Sleep and stress management are just as important. Getting enough rest and finding healthy ways to manage stress can improve immune function and lower the risk of chronic disease.”

Underlying all of this is preventive care, Dr. Kaur said. “Regular checkups and recommended screenings help catch issues early, when they are often easier to address. [See "A health care team supports you," below.] Women should feel comfortable asking questions and having honest conversations with their care team about their health.”

Get screened

Screenings are an important part of staying healthy, and recommendations can vary based on personal and family history, Dr. Kaur said. In general, women should talk with their doctor about screening for:

Breast cancer, with mammograms often starting around age 40, depending on risk factors.

Cervical cancer, with Pap tests typically beginning around age 21.

Colorectal cancer, with screening commonly starting around age 45.

Heart disease risk, with blood pressure and cholesterol checks that should begin in early adulthood.

Osteoporosis, with bone-density screening  that often begins around age 65 or after menopause.

Diabetes, with screening becoming more important as women age or if risk factors are present.

“Following your physician’s guidance on screenings helps identify potential concerns early and supports better outcomes over time,” the doctor said.

The challenge of caregiving

Maybe it’s taking care of your kids. Maybe you’re taking care of your parents. Maybe you’re doing both—and holding down a job too.

“One of the most important reminders for caregivers is that their health matters too,” Dr. Kaur said. “Many women find themselves caring for others while juggling work, family and daily responsibilities. This can be rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. One of the most important reminders for caregivers is that their health matters too. Skipping sleep, ignoring symptoms or putting off appointments can take a real toll over time.”

So what’s an exhausted woman to do? 

Consider getting a checkup.

A health care team supports you

It’s important to have a care team—doctors and nurses who can help you with any changes in your health. What does an excellent quality of life mean for you? 

As Dr. Kaur said, make an appointment with your primary care doctor (or check with your insurance company to find a doctor).

Ask your health care team how you can take care of yourself so you can embrace that life you want.

The bottom line

Women, don’t ignore your health because you’re juggling everyone else’s—or simply coping with a very busy and challenging life.

Again: Make an appointment with a doctor. And then talk about what’s going on and what you should watch out for, and which screenings you should have.

Those conversations are so important.

“Staying connected to regular care, keeping up with preventive visits and making time for movement, nutrition and mental health support can help women stay healthy and resilient,” said Dr. Kaur. “Taking care of yourself is not selfish. It helps ensure you can continue to be there for your family, friends and loved ones.”