By Dr. Giorgia Soreca, Gynecologist at Aventino Medical Group, Rome
Prevention as an investment in health
Gynecological health is not only about treating disorders but above all about prevention. Regular check-ups and targeted screenings allow for the early diagnosis of infections, lesions, and tumors, increasing the chances of recovery and reducing the need for invasive treatments. Autumn, with its more regular rhythms, is the ideal time to schedule a gynecological visit.
Ages 20–30: building the foundations of prevention
At this stage of life, the goal is to prevent infections and protect future fertility.
- Pap smear: begin at age 25, every 3 years if negative
- HPV test: recommended in Italy starting at age 30, though in some cases it can be done earlier
- HPV vaccine: recommended up to age 26, but also beneficial beyond, depending on individual profile
- Practical advice: safe contraception, prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, monitoring of menstrual cycles
These years are fundamental for establishing healthy lifestyle habits and gynecological awareness that will guide future choices.
Ages 30–40: balancing work, family, and health
This decade brings great challenges: career, motherhood, and time management. But prevention should never be set aside.
- HPV test: every 5 years if negative, as an alternative to the Pap smear
- Pelvic ultrasound: useful for diagnosing fibroids, endometriosis, or ovarian conditions
- Regular visits: to monitor pregnancy health or evaluate difficulties conceiving
- Lifestyle: balanced diet, weight management, and physical activity reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome, which also affects reproductive health
Ages 40–50: transition and new checks
In this phase, prevention expands as the body begins to change.
- Cervical screening: HPV test or Pap smear according to guidelines
- Ultrasounds: pelvic and breast, to complement mammography
- Perimenopause monitoring: irregular cycles, hormonal changes, increased risk of osteoporosis
- Oncological prevention: assessing family history of gynecological or breast cancers (e.g., BRCA mutations)
This is the time not to neglect check-ups, as early diagnosis remains the key to every health strategy.
Over 50: long-term protection
With menopause, the risk of some conditions changes, but prevention remains crucial.
- Herpes Zoster (Shingrix): vaccine recommended from age 50 to reduce shingles risk
- Cervical screening: continues up to age 64, then only if indicated
- Osteoporosis: bone densitometry to assess skeletal health
- Uro-gynecological health: attention to prolapse, incontinence, and vaginal atrophy, frequent but treatable conditions
- Heart and metabolism: monitor cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes, which also impact women’s health
FAQ – The most common questions on gynecological prevention
How often should I have a Pap smear?
- Ages 25–29 → Pap smear every 3 years if negative
- Ages 30–64 → HPV test every 5 years (or Pap smear every 3 years if HPV test not available)
- After 65 → screening may be stopped if results have been consistently negative for the past 10–15 years
Annual check-ups do not increase protection and may cause false positives and anxiety. However, if there are risk factors (immunosuppression, unprotected sex, multiple partners, family history of cancer), earlier checks are recommended.
Do I still need gynecological visits after menopause?
Yes. Even if fertility has ended, gynecological health remains important. It is useful to monitor symptoms such as dryness, painful intercourse, incontinence, or prolapse, as well as to continue cancer prevention until age 64.
Is the HPV vaccine useful in adulthood?
Yes. Although most effective when given in adolescence, it can still provide benefits after age 26 in selected clinical situations, reducing the risk of persistent infections and precancerous lesions.
Is it normal to have irregular cycles after age 40?
It may be linked to perimenopause, a transition phase with fluctuating hormones and less regular cycles. However, irregular cycles may also indicate other conditions (fibroids, polyps, hormonal dysfunctions) that deserve investigation.
A reference point in Rome
At Aventino Medical Group, a polyclinic in the heart of Rome, every woman finds a personalized prevention pathway, with specialists who speak English and other languages. This fosters trust, clarity, and professionalism. Whether young women, busy mothers, or patients in menopause, prevention is always tailored together.
Conclusion
Gynecological prevention changes with age but always remains an appointment not to postpone. From HPV protection to menopause management, each stage of life requires dedicated check-ups and strategies.
👉 Book your gynecological visit at Aventino Medical Group in Rome and build with us the prevention pathway best suited to you.