Your 30s

Ages 30-39

Peak reproductive years with evolving screening options. A time when fertility, hormonal health, and family planning often take center stage.

Key Change at 30

You now have more options for cervical cancer screening. Instead of Pap alone every 3 years, you can choose Pap + HPV co-testing every 5 years, or HPV testing alone every 5 years. Talk to your provider about which option is best for you.

Recommended Screenings

Cervical Cancer Screening

New options available

Choose one of these options:

1Pap + HPV co-testing every 5 years (preferred)

2HPV testing alone every 5 years

3Pap test alone every 3 years

Source: ACOG, USPSTF

Breast Health Awareness

Know your baseline

Mammograms:Not routinely recommended yet (starts at 40) unless you have risk factors

Self-awareness:Know how your breasts normally look and feel; report changes

Clinical exam:May be performed during annual visits

High risk? If you have a strong family history or genetic factors, talk to your doctor about earlier or more frequent screening.

STI & Hepatitis Screening

Hepatitis C:One-time screening if not done in your 20s

STIs:Based on risk factors and sexual history

HIV:At least once if not tested; more often if at higher risk

Metabolic Health

Blood pressure:At least every 2 years if normal

Diabetes:Screen if overweight/obese with additional risk factors

Cholesterol:Periodic screening based on risk factors

Hormonal Health & PCOS

Many women in their 30s deal with hormonal imbalances. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects 6-12% of women and can impact fertility, metabolism, and long-term health.

Signs to discuss with your doctor:

• Irregular or absent periods
• Difficulty losing weight
• Excess facial or body hair
• Acne that won't resolve
• Difficulty getting pregnant

Why it matters:

• Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
• Higher cardiovascular disease risk
• Fertility challenges
• Mental health impacts
• Treatable with proper management

Fertility Awareness

While fertility begins to decline in the late 20s, many women have healthy pregnancies throughout their 30s. However, it's important to understand how fertility changes with age.

Early 30s

Fertility remains relatively high

Mid 30s

Gradual decline begins

Late 30s

More significant decline

If you're planning pregnancy, discuss timeline and options with your healthcare provider. Fertility testing can provide helpful information about your reproductive health.

Previous: Your 20s Next: Your 40s

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.