Blood Work
These common blood tests give us a snapshot of your overall health.
This test checks for anemia (low iron) and other blood cell abnormalities. It’s often recommended if you have heavy periods or symptoms like fatigue.
Measures your cholesterol levels to assess your risk for heart disease. Generally recommended starting at age 45, or earlier if you have risk factors like a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
Screens for pre-diabetes and diabetes. Recommended starting around age 35 and repeated every 3 years if normal, or more frequently if you have risk factors like obesity or a family history.
Checks your thyroid function. Recommended if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or hair loss.
Talking About Colon Health?
At our clinic, we are committed to your comprehensive, lifelong health. Just like we recommend regular Pap tests for cervical health and mammograms for breast health, we also follow guidelines for other essential preventive screenings.
Colon cancer is a common and serious cancer, but it’s also one of the most preventable and treatable when found early. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps—abnormal growths—so they can be removed before they ever turn into cancer. Your OB/GYN provider is a key partner in your overall wellness, and that includes making sure you’re aware of this important screening.
When Should I Start Screening?
For individuals at average risk, regular screening should begin at age 45. You may be at a higher risk and need to start screening earlier or be tested more frequently if you have:
- Please discuss your personal and family history with your provider to create a screening plan that is right for you.
- A personal or strong family history of colon cancer or colon polyps.
- A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis).
- A known or suspected genetic syndrome, such as Lynch syndrome.
- A personal history of radiation to the abdomen or pelvis.
What Are My Screening Options?
There are several types of screening tests available. The "best" test is the one that you are willing and able to complete. Your provider can help you decide.
These non-invasive tests check your stool for hidden signs of cancer. If your result is positive, a colonoscopy is required for follow-up.
- FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test): Detects tiny amounts of blood in the stool.
- How often? Every year.
- Stool DNA Test (e.g., Cologuard®): Looks for both blood and abnormal DNA from cancer or polyp cells.
- How often? Every 3 years.
These tests look directly at the inside of your colon and rectum.
- Colonoscopy (The Gold Standard): A doctor uses a thin, flexible, lighted tube with a camera to view the entire colon.
- Why it’s effective: It’s the only test that can both find and remove polyps during the same procedure.
- How often? Every 10 years for average-risk individuals with normal results.
- The procedure: It requires a bowel preparation (“prep”) the day before and is performed under sedation, so you are comfortable and relaxed.
- CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): Uses a CT scanner to create a 3D image of the colon.
- How often? Every 5 years.
- Note: This test still requires a bowel prep. If polyps are found, you will need to schedule a traditional colonoscopy to have them removed.
DEXA Scan?
A DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan is a simple, painless imaging test that measures the density and strength of your bones. It’s the most accurate way to diagnose osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle, making them more likely to break. Think of it as a special X-ray for your bones’ strength.
The scan is quick, usually taking only 10 to 15 minutes, and uses a very low dose of radiation.
We recommend bone density screening for the following women:
- All women aged 65 or older, regardless of their risk factors.
- Postmenopausal women younger than 65 who have one or more risk factors for osteoporosis.
- Women who have broken a bone after age 50.
- Women with medical conditions (like rheumatoid arthritis) or who take certain medications (like long-term steroids) that can cause bone loss.
Your provider may recommend earlier screening if you have any of these risk factors:
- Family History: A parental history of a hip fracture.
- Lifestyle: Smoking, excessive alcohol intake (more than two drinks per day), or an inactive lifestyle.
- Body Weight: Having a low body weight (generally under 127 lbs) or a history of an eating disorder.
- Hormonal Changes: Early menopause (before age 45).
- Nutrition: A diet low in calcium and vitamin D.
- Previous Fractures: A history of breaking a bone easily as an adult.
Whether or not you need a DEXA scan now, it’s never too early or too late to protect your bones!
- Get Enough Calcium and Vitamin D: Aim for 1,200 mg of calcium and 800-1,000 IU of vitamin D daily (for women over 50). Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods are great sources.
- Do Weight-Bearing Exercises: Activities like walking, jogging, dancing, and weightlifting help strengthen bones.
- Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Both can weaken your bones.
Please schedule a time to talk with your provider about your personal risk factors and decide if a DEXA scan is the right next step for you.