Women's health protection & cancer awareness  ·  Know your screening schedule →
Early detection

Your screening schedule, explained.

The most powerful thing you can do for your health is screen regularly. This guide tells you which tests you need, when to have them, and what to expect.

Screening guidelines vary by country. The schedules below are based on current European and international guidelines. Always confirm with your doctor or local health authority what is recommended and available in your region.

Screening guide

Your recommended screening schedule

These are the minimum recommended intervals. Women with family history, genetic mutations, or other risk factors may need earlier or more frequent screening.

Screening test Who it is for / frequency What it detects
Mammogram
Breast
Every 1–2 years from age 40–45 (some guidelines say 50). Women with BRCA mutations or strong family history: from age 30 or earlier, may include MRI.
Breast tumours, calcifications, and abnormalities in breast tissue
Breast self-exam
Breast
Once a month, from your 20s onward. Best done 3–5 days after your period ends. Report any changes to your doctor promptly.
Lumps, changes in texture, skin changes, nipple changes
Pap Smear
Cervical
Every 3 years from age 21–65. Can be combined with HPV test (co-test) every 5 years from age 30.
Abnormal cervical cells before they become cancer
HPV Test
Cervical
Every 5 years from age 30–65 (often combined with Pap). Many countries are moving to HPV-primary screening.
High-risk HPV strains that cause cervical cancer
Pelvic Exam
Ovarian / General
Annually as part of a well-woman check-up. Report any new symptoms between appointments — ovarian cancer has no standard screening test.
General reproductive health; some ovarian abnormalities
BRCA Genetic Test
Breast / Ovarian
For women with family history of breast or ovarian cancer. A positive result dramatically changes your screening and prevention plan.
BRCA1/2 gene mutations linked to high breast and ovarian cancer risk
Prevention steps

What you can do today

Beyond screening, several lifestyle choices meaningfully reduce your risk. No single factor guarantees cancer — but choices compound over time.

01

Get vaccinated against HPV

The HPV vaccine prevents the strains responsible for nearly all cervical cancers. Most effective when given before first sexual contact (ages 9–14), but beneficial up to age 26 and often recommended to 45.

02

Attend every screening appointment

Do not skip your mammogram or Pap smear because you feel well. Most early-stage cancers have no symptoms. Screening finds cancer before you can feel it.

03

Know your family history

Tell your doctor if a close relative has had breast, ovarian, or colorectal cancer. You may qualify for earlier or more intensive screening, or genetic counselling.

04

Maintain a healthy weight

Obesity is a risk factor for breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet reduce risk and improve overall outcomes.

05

Limit alcohol consumption

Even moderate alcohol consumption raises breast cancer risk. The relationship is dose-dependent — reducing or eliminating alcohol reduces risk.

06

Do not smoke

Smoking increases the risk of cervical cancer and several other cancers. Quitting at any age reduces risk and improves treatment outcomes for those already diagnosed.

Need guidance?

Not sure where to start?

Our team can help you understand which screenings you need based on your age, family history, and location. We can also help you find a clinic or specialist near you.

Ask our team Find a clinic