Women often juggle careers, family, and responsibilities, always putting themselves last. But here’s the hard truth: if you don’t take care of your health today, you may not have the chance to care for others tomorrow.

Preventive health tests aren’t just routine checkups—they’re life-saving. Ignoring them could mean missing early signs of serious health conditions.

So, what tests should women between 25 and 45 prioritize? Here are five crucial screenings to help you stay in control of your well-being, energy, and future.

1. Iron Levels: Fighting Fatigue Before It Takes Over

Feeling exhausted all the time? It’s easy to blame stress, work, or sleepless nights, but low iron levels could be the real culprit.

Why It Matters:

• Iron deficiency (anemia) is one of the most common yet overlooked health issues in women.
• It leads to fatigue, dizziness, weakness, and can cause complications during pregnancy.
• Severe anemia can affect heart health and mental focus.

Test to Take:

Complete Blood Count (CBC) – Checks hemoglobin and iron levels to detect anemia early.

How to Prevent It:

Eat iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils, red meat, and nuts.
Pair iron with Vitamin C (like oranges or tomatoes) to improve absorption.
Consider iron supplements if advised by your doctor.

2. PCOS: Understanding Your Body’s Signals

Do you have irregular periods, acne, unexplained weight gain, or excess facial hair? These could be signs of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)—a hormonal disorder affecting 1 in 5 women in India.

Why It Matters:

• PCOS is not just about periods; it can lead to diabetes, infertility, and heart disease.
• It causes hormonal imbalances that make it difficult to lose weight or manage acne.
• Early diagnosis prevents long-term complications.

Tests to Take:

PCOS Panel (includes hormone and insulin tests) – Checks for hormonal imbalances.
Pelvic Ultrasound – Detects ovarian cysts.

How to Manage It:

Follow a healthy diet with balanced carbs and protein.
Regular exercise can improve insulin sensitivity.
Consult a gynecologist for tailored treatment.

3. Fertility Check: Being Proactive About Your Future

Whether you plan to have kids now or later, knowing your fertility health can help you make informed decisions.

Why It Matters:

• Many fertility challenges can be identified and treated early.
• Conditions like thyroid disorders, PCOS, or infections can affect pregnancy.
• If you’re considering egg freezing, this test is crucial.

Tests to Take:

Hormone Panel (FSH, LH, AMH, Estrogen, Progesterone) – Measures ovarian reserve and reproductive health.
Thyroid Function Test (TSH, T3, T4) – Since thyroid imbalances affect fertility.
STD/Infection Screen – Some infections impact pregnancy outcomes.

How to Prepare:

Track your menstrual cycle to identify irregularities.
Manage stress, as high cortisol levels can affect ovulation.
Talk to a fertility specialist if you’re planning to conceive.

4. Thyroid Health: The Hidden Cause of Mood Swings and Weight Changes

Gaining weight without explanation? Feeling anxious, sluggish, or depressed? It could be your thyroid.

Why It Matters:

• The thyroid gland controls metabolism, energy levels, and mood.
• Women are more prone to thyroid disorders than men.
• Untreated thyroid issues can lead to weight gain, heart problems, and fertility issues.

Tests to Take:

TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone), FT3, FT4 – Detects overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid.

How to Manage It:

Eat iodine-rich foods like fish, dairy, and eggs.
Limit processed foods that interfere with thyroid function.
Take prescribed thyroid medication if necessary.

5. Premenopausal Health: Easing the Transition Early

Hot flashes, mood swings, and irregular periods in your 30s or 40s? You may be experiencing perimenopause—the early stage of menopause.

Why It Matters:

• Hormonal changes can start years before menopause.
• Symptoms can impact sleep, mental health, and bone strength.
• Early awareness helps you manage symptoms better.

Tests to Take:

Menopause Diagnostic Panel (Estrogen, Progesterone, FSH, LH) – Identifies hormone shifts.
Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan) – Checks for osteoporosis risk.

How to Stay Balanced:

Eat calcium-rich foods like dairy, almonds, and leafy greens.
Exercise regularly to maintain muscle strength.
Manage stress through yoga or meditation.

Prioritize Your Health Today

Women often ignore their own well-being while caring for others. But preventive health tests can save lives, helping you catch issues early, take control, and live a healthier life.

Your health is not an afterthought—it’s a priority. Take charge today!