Back to Care Guide
40

Your 40s

Ages 40-49

A pivotal decade for cancer screening and cardiovascular health. Mammograms and colorectal screening become priorities.

Key Milestones This Decade

40:Mammography screening begins for average-risk women
45:Colorectal cancer screening begins

Critical Screenings

Mammography

Starts at 40
When:Every 1-2 years starting at age 40
What:X-ray imaging of breast tissue to detect cancer early
Why:Early detection significantly improves breast cancer survival rates
2024 Update: ACOG now recommends all average-risk women begin mammography at age 40, aligning with USPSTF guidelines.
Source: ACOG Clinical Practice Update 2024

Colorectal Cancer Screening

Starts at 45
When:Starting at age 45 (previously 50)
Options:Colonoscopy every 10 years, or stool-based tests more frequently
Why:Colorectal cancer rates are rising in younger adults
Source: USPSTF, American Cancer Society

Cervical Cancer Screening

Continue with same options as your 30s:

  • Pap + HPV co-testing every 5 years
  • HPV testing alone every 5 years
  • Pap test alone every 3 years

Cardiovascular Health

Blood pressure:Check annually
Cholesterol:Lipid panel every 5 years (more often if elevated)
Diabetes:Screen every 3 years if overweight; sooner if risk factors

Perimenopause: What to Expect

Most women enter perimenopause in their 40s. This transitional phase can last 4-8 years before menopause.

Common symptoms:

  • • Irregular periods
  • • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • • Sleep disturbances
  • • Mood changes
  • • Vaginal dryness

Talk to your doctor about:

  • • Symptom management options
  • • Hormone therapy benefits & risks
  • • Non-hormonal alternatives
  • • Contraception (still needed!)
  • • Bone health considerations

Weight & Metabolic Health

Hormonal changes in your 40s can affect metabolism and weight distribution. Maintaining a healthy weight becomes increasingly important for disease prevention.

Why it matters now:

Obesity increases risks of breast cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and worsens menopause symptoms.

What helps:

Strength training, protein intake, sleep quality, and stress management become more important.

Medical options:

If lifestyle changes aren't enough, talk to your doctor about medical weight management approaches.

Previous: Your 30sNext: 50s & Beyond

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Health Care Guide for Your 40s (Ages 40-49) | KC Women's Health