The end of the year is a natural time to pause, reflect, and reset. For many women, it’s also the perfect time to take stock of their health.
We often prioritize family, work, and community; it’s easy to put our own well-being on the back burner. Yet, midlife is a period of major biological change, and taking small, proactive steps today can have a meaningful impact on your long-term health.
As you look ahead to 2026, here are five essential health checks I encourage every woman to complete before January arrives.
1. Blood Sugar & Metabolic Screening
Menopause is not just a hormonal transition—it’s a metabolic one. As estrogen levels decline, your body becomes more insulin-resistant, meaning blood sugar levels rise quicker and higher. Even women with a stable weight may notice an increase in abdominal fat or changes in their energy levels. Blood tests, such as fasting glucose, A1C, and fasting insulin, or the use of a continuous glucose monitor, can identify early changes long before diabetes develops. Knowledge is power, allowing you to make changes ahead of the curve. If you’ve never had these tests, or it’s been more than a year, now is the time.
2. Blood Pressure & Heart Health Review
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among women, yet many early warning signs go unnoticed. Blood pressure often increases after menopause, and cholesterol can shift in the wrong direction. A simple check of blood pressure, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and lipoprotein(a) offers a valuable snapshot of your cardiovascular health. Advanced screening includes a coronary artery calcium score. If this is positive, a provider should review your lipoprotein levels more thoroughly and consider earlier intervention to prevent the progression of heart disease. Many women are positive without experiencing any symptoms.
3. Breast Health & Screening
Your screening needs may change due to variations in breast density, hormonal status, or age. If your yearly imaging anniversary is near, check first with your healthcare provider if you could benefit from advanced screening, such as an ultrasound, a contrast-enhanced mammogram, or an MRI. Women at higher risk due to having dense breasts, late or no pregnancies, or a strong family history may benefit from a personalized screening plan.
4. Bone Health Check-In
One in two women will face an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. Menopause accelerates bone loss, making this a critical area to monitor. If you are age 50 and up or have risk factors (family history, early menopause, smoking, or low body weight), ask if it’s time for a bone density scan. Also, check your vitamin D level to ensure proper calcium absorption. People living north of Atlanta are often vitamin D deficient.
5. Pelvic Health & Menopause Symptoms Review
Symptoms such as bladder urgency, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, sleep difficulties, gaining belly fat, and low libido are common—but not “just part of aging.” A conversation with your provider can help you understand your options, including lifestyle strategies and evidence-based treatments such as menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) or Neurokinin-targeted therapies (NKTs).
As the year closes, consider these health checks an act of self-respect. Your future self will thank you!
Learn more at truewomenshealth.com.
Written by Diana Bitner, MD, FACOG, MSCP.
Courtesy of true. Women’s Health.
Photo courtesy of Chase Loreto with Leverage Marketing in Grand Haven.
