6 Questions Every Woman Over 40 Should Ask Her Doctor

If you don’t have any major health concerns, heading to the doctor once a year for your annual physical can, admittedly, feel unnecessary. You may find yourself rushing through your appointment in the hopes of getting it off your plate quickly. But even if you’re in top shape, it’s important to take the time to chat with your doctor about your health — especially if you’re over 40. While you may not feel much different at 40 than you did at 30, middle age brings with it plenty of changes that you should be aware of — ideally, before they occur. We chatted with Simran Malhotra, M.D., to get the lowdown on the most important questions women over 40 should ask their doctor, and her answers were enlightening (to say the least). Keep reading for her insight, and bookmark this page for easy reference at your next physical. 

1. When Can I Expect To Go Through Menopause?

“Most women typically experience menopause around age 50, but perimenopausal symptoms can show up several years beforehand,” Dr. Malhotra says. Symptoms typically include irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings, and a change in libido. Understanding what to expect — and when — can help you better prepare for menopause and all the changes that come with it. 

2. How Might Menopause Affect My Health?

Menopause doesn’t just affect your reproductive system — it can also affect your bones and heart. After menopause, your bones begin to degrade faster than they can repair (a process colloquially known as bone loss). If not managed appropriately, this can lead to osteoporosis and increase your risk of fractures. Menopause can also cause your cholesterol levels to rise, Dr. Malhotra says, which increases your risk of developing heart disease. Let your doctor know if you think  you have begun perimenopause; they can adjust their care plan accordingly and work with you to help keep potential complications at bay. 

3. What Screening Tests Do I Need Based on My Age and Family History? 

According to the National Cancer Institute, roughly 40.5% of adults will get diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives, and advancing age is the biggest risk factor for developing cancer. The American Cancer Society has general guidelines for when and how often to get screened for issues such as breast and skin cancer, but they’re just that — general guidelines. Your age, lifestyle, health conditions, and family history can all play a role in how often you should schedule screening tests (such as imaging or bloodwork). Speak with your doctor about your family history and lifestyle (be honest!), and they’ll be able to provide you with personalized advice about your cancer risk based on these factors.  

4. Are There Any Supplements I Should Be Taking?

There are a lot of supplements for women on the market, and it can be tricky to know whether they’re actually worth taking. Per Dr. Malhotra, one of the best things you can do to ensure you’re getting all of the nutrients you need is to follow “a mostly whole food, fiber-rich, plant-focused diet” and minimize your consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol. But there are certain supplements that may be worth taking. Vitamin D, for example, can help support bone health and minimize your risk of developing osteoporosis when you get older, and it’s tricky to get enough of this essential nutrient through diet alone. Magnesium and vitamin B12 supplements may also be worth looking into. But before you add any vitamins to your lineup, heed Dr. Malhotra’s advice and consult your doctor — some supplements can interact with medicines you take. 

5. How Often Do I Really Need To Exercise?

Living a largely sedentary lifestyle can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and even cancer. To help keep yourself healthy, the American Heart Association recommends aiming for about 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week (or just over 20 minutes per day) for healthy adults. Keep in mind that you don’t have to devote your free time to training for marathons if you don’t want to; walking, dancing, biking, and even gardening all qualify as moderate physical activity. 

6. Are There Any Lifestyle Changes I Should Make as I Get Older?

“It's the little everyday lifestyle habits that will make the biggest impact in reducing our risk of chronic diseases, optimize our mental health, and allow us to age gracefully,” Dr. Malhotra explains. In addition to keeping active, she recommends aiming for at least seven hours of sleep per night, avoiding harmful substances (such as tobacco), drinking plenty of water, and maintaining an active social life to help reduce the risk of social isolation and depression. “Most importantly, prioritize self-love and [make] time for activities that bring you joy and fulfillment,” she adds.

Leave some time at your next physical to chat with your doctor about your lifestyle and habits. They may be able to provide additional recommendations to help keep your body and mind healthy as you get older.