The One Thing an OB/GYN Is Begging Women Over 50 to Stop Doing in 2025

As humbling and frightening as it sounds, we cannot control every aspect of our health. Genetics and age can increase our risk of certain chronic conditions, including heart disease and breast cancer. Yet, that doesn't mean it's time to throw in the towel if one or both of these disease risk factors aren't in your favor. You have control over other areas of your lifestyle that can lower or raise your odds of developing some conditions, regardless of your gene pool or the number of candles on your last birthday cake.

"Our lifestyle directly affects our overall health," says Dr. Sherry Ross, MD, a board-certified OB/GYN at Providence Saint John’s Health Center. "It’s well known that unhealthy lifestyle choices surrounding diet, exercise, sleep, stress management, weight control, alcohol and tobacco use directly affect our health. A healthy lifestyle sets the stage to prevent the most common chronic diseases including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, breast, colon and other cancers."

When discussing healthy habits to make (or break), diet, exercise and weight often take up most of the oxygen. However, another habit frequently gets glossed over for various reasons. Dr. Ross shared the one habit she wants women over 50 to stop in 2025 and actionable ways to nix it (no matter how busy you are).

Related: Never Give Up and Always Keep the Faith—90 Quotes About Breast Cancer That Resonate

The No. 1 Habit an OB/GYN Wants Women 50+ To Break in 2025

Dr. Ross wants people to stop skipping routine check-ups and tests in 2025.

"Women over 50 should not skip seeing their healthcare provider every year for general health screening examinations and tests," Dr. Ross says.

Dr. Ross says women over 50 should have regular:

• Mammograms

• Breast exams

• Pelvic exams

Dr. Ross says your doctor may also recommend other annual or regular screening exams, regardless of whether you're noticing symptoms.

"Yearly screening tests and examinations allow for early detection of medical problems related to breast cancer, collateral damage associated with the changes of menopause and sexual challenges connected to aging," Dr. Ross says. "Early detection of gynecologic challenges allows for early treatment interventions that support wellness after menopause."

🩺 SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week 💊

For instance, a 2022 CDC report report stressed that mammograms can lower a person's odds of dying from breast cancer by 22%. Intervals for exams can vary based on your risk factors, but annual check-ins with your doctors can ensure nothing slips through the cracks—which it so often does.

The same 2022 report found that one in four women ages 50 to 74 had not received a mammogram within the last two years, the baseline recommended interval for this demographic. What gives? The CDC reported that the risk of skipping mammograms was higher in women with high social needs, like job loss, food insecurity and lack of reliable transportation. Women who cited cost as a hurdle for accessing healthcare were twice as likely not to get a mammogram.

Dr. Ross also shared another issue: Our society's attitude toward aging.

"Women over 50 culturally do not embrace aging," Dr. Ross says.

However, Dr. Ross stresses it's important to ditch that mindset, and you don't need to wait until Jan. 1.

"Women over 50 must understand that there are necessary examinations, tests and treatments relating to cervical and breast health, menopause, sexual wellness, bladder problems and other gynecologic obstacles that occur with aging," Dr. Ross says. "Many of these challenges are under-discussed or acknowledged and need to be uncovered under the guidance of a trusted gynecologist."

Related: The #1 Way to Lower Your Cancer Risk Naturally, According to Doctors

Tips for Scheduling and Making the Most Of Your Appointments

1. Schedule appointments for your birthday.

Seeing your doctor is a gift to yourself because it allows you and your care team to catch issues before they get worse. Yet, that's not the only reason Dr. Ross gives this advice.

"Being consistent with annual exams will become second nature, and you will make your health maintenance a yearly priority," Dr. Ross says.

If your birthday falls during a busy season, consider another natural time for it, like January (for the New Year) or September (back-to-school, which can bring on "New Year vibes" even if you're not hitting the books).

Related: A Comprehensive List of Every Single Menopause Symptom—and What to Do About Each

2. Understand risk factors and medical conditions.

Higher risks for certain conditions may inform how often you need to be screened for them and treatment.

"Knowing your family history as it relates to heart disease, high cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes and breast, ovarian and colon cancer will empower you to ask for all the necessary screening tests to keep you healthy," Dr. Ross says. "Invest in your personal wellness."

3. Educate yourself on general health and wellness.

Dr. Ross suggests finding reliable sources for medical information, such as the American Heart Association. Your doctor is also a valuable resource.

"Bring a list of questions to your healthcare provider to stay informed and up to date on your medical concerns," Dr. Ross says.

4. Keep records organized

When life gets busy, it can be challenging to remember what you're due for and when.

"Keep a folder of your medical test results, mammogram reports and other relevant medical information to stay organized on what is being done to keep you healthy and informed as you age," Dr. Ross says.

Related: 'I'm 67 and In the Best Shape of My Life—This Is the Exact Workout Routine I Swear By'

Good Habits to Adapt In 2025 If You're a Women Over 50

Scheduling doctor's appointments and tests and making the most of them is a significant step toward improving your health. However, Dr. Ross suggests implementing some everyday habits, which can boost the likelihood that these tests come back "all good." Dr. Ross' top tips include:

• Eating plant-based, nutrient-rich and unprocessed foods and limiting red meat (the Mediterranean diet is a favorite of hers)

• Regular exercise

• Sleeping at least seven to eight hours per night

• Limiting alcohol consumption

Finally, make 2025 the year you accept and relish your journey with your personal health top of mind.

"It’s time for women to embrace aging openly and shamelessly," Dr. Ross says.

Up Next:

Related: 7 Foods to Avoid for Menopause Belly Fat

Sources:

• Dr. Sherry Ross, MD, a board-certified OB/GYN and Women’s Health Expert at Providence Saint John’s Health Center

• Health-Related Social Needs Can Keep Women from Getting Lifesaving Mammograms. CDC.