People in their thirties fall into a grey area when it comes to their health. They’re too young to be at high risk for most diseases, but they shouldn’t take their health for granted. An easy to remember formula for how often patients should see a doctor: Two times in your twenties, three times in your thirties, four times in your forties, five times in your fifties, and annually after that.

During those visits, patients should ask whether their immunizations are up to date.

Women in their 30s should also get checked their blood pressure, heart rate, weight, vision, and hearing during a routine physical. A lipid profile, urinalysis, and complete blood count help uncover abnormalities such as high cholesterol or anemia. Depending on sexual history, patients in there thirties should be screened for sexually transmitted diseases.

Women in there thirties should visit their gynecologist once a year for a breast examination and pelvic exam and pap smear, which include a check for cervical cancer. Although every adult should have a relationship with an internist or general practitioner, gynecologists are becoming the primary-care physician for many women.

Women in their thirties often are deciding if and when to have children, which may lead to discussions of genetic testing. And depending on their heritage and family history, a woman may want to test to see if she is a carrier for cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, or other diseases. Also, it is recommended to get annual baseline mammograms done once your 30s start in order to detect any risk of breast cancer.

Regardless of complexion and risk factors, women should have a full body exam in the early thirties. Thirty somethings can come back every five to ten years for a skin checkup. Patients at higher risk—those with a family history of skin cancer, fair skin, a history of childhood sunburns, or a lot of moles—should opt for a check up more often.

It is also advisable to thirty somethings to visit a dentist twice a year for cleaning and screening for cavities and gum disease.

None of it is really exciting or sexy, but the most important thing is sitting down and talking about lifestyle. The doctor should talk with you about your stress level and diet and exercise habits. He or she will find out if you are a smoker and tell you to drink alcohol in moderation.

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