October 30, 2014

PRODUCT REVIEW: Dot&Dot Multi Purpose Bag/Travel Accessories Organizer




I love this little bag :)
It's waterproof-lined on the inside, mesh see-through, and a great size.
I had it hooked to my carry-all tote's strap to hang on the inside, but I took it off last night to carry under my arm while I was out at a Harvest Party. Came in very handy in holding my license, a couple of dollars, my keys, eyeglasses when I didn't need them, a pen, chapstick, car-pack of kleenex, etc.
I love this bag :)

My Rating: A

(Addendum 11/28: I keep moving this back and forth from my car to my totes, and adding more and more in it. It's become quite an addiction to carry! HAHA!)







FIND IT HERE:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JKJQJO8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1



Product Description

Choose from X-Small, Small, Medium, or Large
X-Small - 7.5 x 3.5 x 1 in
Small - 8 x 6 x 1 in
Medium - 10 x 8 x 1 in
Large - 14 x 10 x 1 in

  • * Waterproof mesh allows you to easily contents while protecting the contents from dirt or other elements
    * Easily open and close the zipper using the heavy duty zipper puller. Each bag includes a clip to securely attach your bag to handles.
    * These multipurpose bags can be used as travel packing bags, for the office, in school, at home and more.

     
Clear Clutter Out of Your Life
Frees yourself from clutter and reduce stress.
Perfect for organizing your stuff at home, school, office or even while traveling!

Find Your Stuff in a Flash
Easily identify the contents of your bag with the see-through mesh.
Saves you from embarrassment during airport security checks.

Store More, Organize More
Unlike other flat organizers, Dot&Dot travel accessories organizer is 1" deep, allowing you
to place more of your belongings.

Protects Your Belongings
Waterproof mesh protects your belongings from accidental spills and dirt transfer.

The Only Packing Bags That You'll Ever Need
Made of high quality materials, Dot&Dot organizers will last a lifetime of travel and adventure.
Save your money from low quality organizers that just don't work or get damaged after few uses.

    #organizers

    October 28, 2014

    5 Easy DIY Projects Using Coconut Oil



    5 Easy DIY Projects Using Coconut Oil
    Easy #DoitYourself #cosmetics that are easy to make!
    Awesome coconut oil recipes that are easy enough for anyone to make!
    Check it out here! http://bit.ly/1fuNSMG


    October 27, 2014

    PRODUCT REVIEW: 100% Pure Yacon Syrup - Metabolism Booster - All Natural Weight Loss Yacon Syrup - Raw Yacon Syrup







    I received this a couple of weeks ago and finally opened it this last weekend.

    I used it on toast, and then later made 'molasses' cookies with it. I like it. It's not overly sweet, and very much reminds me of molasses. 

    I also used it on some coffee just to see what it would be like, it was good! Melted down quickly of course, and made the coffee taste really good! 

    It's a fine product and I will end up finishing the bottle!

    My Rating: A




  • Pure yacon syrup assists in weight loss and slimming waist sizes, regulating blood sugar, and increasing daily fiber intake


  • The syrup, distilled from the Peruvian tuber yacon -- contains up to 50 percent fructooligosacharides, or FOS. FOS, classified as a prebiotic, is a non-caloric sweetener and also a fiber source.


  • According to a 2009 Scientific study, daily intake of yacon syrup produced a significant decrease in body weight, waist circumference and body mass index.


  • Yacon syrup Speeds up the metabolism to combat excess fat and regulates the hunger hormone, making you feel full longer.


  • Low-Glycemic Sweetener


  • Find it Here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GK92558/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1




    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    PRODUCT REVIEW: Diet Standards AminoHD 1000 BCAA Capsules





    I took these capsules for two weeks, one per morning, in between meals (one of the suggestions on the label), and though I wasn't specifically looking to "lose weight" via these tablets, though I do need to lose weight, they had no negative effect on my body and I did notice a little 'leaning' in my arms recently. I can honestly only relate that to these specific capsules because I'm not doing anything different for that. 

    I had a positive experience with this product.

    My Rating: A

    (addendum: I will probably increase my intake of this product because I have been having a hard time losing weight recently because of my perimenopause)


    FIND IT HERE; http://www.amazon.com/Diet-Standards-AminoHD-Capsules-450-Count/dp/B00LT4941M/ref=cm_cr-mr-title



    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free through the company. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    PRODUCT REVIEW: 4K - ULTRA PREMIUM SERIES GOLD Plated 6 ft High Speed HDMI Cable 2 Pack - by Solid Cordz®









    4K HDMI Cable Ultra Premium Series by Solid Cordz® provides an interface between any audio/video source, such as set-top boxes, Blue-ray Disc players, DVD players, video game consoles, AV receivers and an audio and/or video monitor, such as digital television or plasma monitor, over a single cable.
    This High Speed HDMI cables have been designed to meet the performance standards set by HDMI 1.4 and have passed stringent Category 2 testing. They are backward compatible to all previous versions.

    The major enhancements introduced in the HDMI 1.4 specification
    • HDMI® Ethernet Channel
    • Audio Return Channel
           • 4K Resolution Support 


     Details
    • 24K Gold-plated HDMI® connectors provide optimal signal transfer & up to 18 Gbps Speed Rated
    • Triple-shielded HDMI® compliant cable protects against EMI/RFI
    • Supports up to 7.1 Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master AudioTM standards
    • Backward compatible to all previous versions
    • HDCP & RoHS & CEC Compliant & UL Certified


    I did some extra research to help me, personally, understand what these were about because I didn't receive instructions/a booklet in the box. I needed to know what they were compatible with, etc. 

    I have a PS3, a tv, and digital-ethernet/internet. I wanted to know HOW to work these cables into my items. 

    I found that this page helped me a good bit as well:
    http://www.hdmi.org/learningcenter/HDMI14Training/HDMI_installer_tng_1112.htm


    These cables do help the quality and I can't wait to have a better tv so I can hook it up there as well as my computer!

    My Rating: A


    FIND IT HERE>> http://www.amazon.com/4K-PREMIUM-Ethernet-Support-Compatible/dp/B00NM07EPY/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1412143192&sr=1-4






    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    October 26, 2014

    7 MORE USES OF COCONUT OIL





    7 MORE USES OF COCONUT OIL:
    1. Prevents chaffing
    If your little one has a diaper rash, try dabbing a small amount of coconut oil on the area that’s irritated and allow it to dry before replacing the diaper.

    2. Soothes sore throats
    There’s nothing more irritating than an itchy, sore throat, right? The next time you feel one coming on, try swallowing a teaspoon of coconut oil or adding it to your cup of tea.
    3. Heals wounds
    Because of its antibacterial and antifungal properties, coconut oil can be lightly applied over superficial cuts and scrapes. This isn't for deep cuts.
    4. Improves cholesterol
    Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which boosts your HDL cholesterol – the “good” kind – levels. High HDL levels can reduce your risk for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death for African-American women.
    5. Burns fat
    While it seems like adding oil to your diet would do more harm than good, it’s actually quite the opposite with coconut oil. It contains medium-chain saturated fats, which can boost your metabolism and are easier to digest.
    6. Fights congestion
    Feeling congested? Instead of running out to the store and spending money on a jar of vapor rub, try a natural alternative, such as coconut oil to eliminate any congestion.
    7. Prevents nosebleeds
    One of the most common causes of nosebleeds is dry nostrils. Applying a tiny amount of coconut oil inside of your nose can moisten your mucus membranes.



    October 24, 2014

    PRODUCT REVIEW: Stretch Mark & Scar Cream [For Prevention & Reduction] by Insta Natural








    I've used this on my neck, chest and stomach for almost two weeks now and I am just starting to see a difference in the 'reduction' of the stretch marks, it's almost like it's blending them in to my skin, it's pretty neat!

    I've gotten stretch marks over time from childbirth, weight gain, and age. 

    This item does not have an overpowering odor, and it goes on soft & smooth. 


    My Rating: A




    FIND IT HERE> 
    http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00O14R17Q/ref=cm_cr_ryp_prd_ttl_sol_0

    #instanatural

    Product Description
    InstaNatural’s Stretch Mark & Scar Cream is an effective treatment to minimize the appearance of current marks, while also preventing the forming of new ones. Stretch marks and scars are created when collagen is weakened and skin is stretched or torn beyond its limit. Our cream heavily moisturizes affected areas – such as hips, stomach and arms - delivering nourishment and hydration to enhance elasticity of your skin and help restore a youthful look and even appearance.

    Key Ingredients:
    + Vitamin C (15%)
    + Cocoa Butter
    + Rosehip Oil
    + Mango Butter
    + Grapeseed Oil
    + Evening Primrose Oil

    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    October 23, 2014

    PRODUCT REVIEW: NootropX-Cognitive and Neural Enhancement Formula





    I started using this two weeks ago. I have short-term memory loss due to heading into that awesome time in a woman's life when she changes gears - AND LOSES HER MIND! Literally. Grr. Argh!!

    I do notice a difference with these tablets, and I will continue to use them, as well as continue to buy them!

    This is a huge deal to me, because for 2 years, this memory loss has been driving me nuts. I was always GREAT at recalling things. 

    I didn't understand what was happening until this year... I had to start adjusting the way I did things, like writing everything important like appointments, birthdays, anything... I already had a regular day timer, just like anyone else, but then to have to start using notepads, sticky pads, even just to remember WHY I was going to the store.., and I hate it. I've been able to remember more things now and I hope to see even more improvement as I take them.

    My Rating: A




    FIND IT HERE> http://www.amazon.com/Concentration-Supplement-Enhancement-Alertness-Absorption/dp/B00NMKXPEI/keywords=nootropics

    #nootropx



    Product Description
    Experience the NootropX Effect for Yourself!

    We are so confident you'll love NootropX we insist the risk is on us, so simply try NootropX for 90 days and if you do not see the results you want then we will gladly refund your money, no questions asked!

    ★Unmatched Results! There is simply nothing available on the market without a prescription that is more effective than NootropX:

    ✔ Increase Mental Focus and Concentration
    ✔ Enhance Clarity and Alertness
    ✔ Experience Rapid Brain and Memory Boost

    Feel The Difference With Our Unique & Superior Patented Technology

    ✔ Patented AES® Absorption System for Maximum Absorption of Nutrients
    ✔ Only Plant Cellulose Capsules Used With Absolutely No Fillers or Binding Agents
    ✔ Made in the USA & Independently Tested for Purity and Potency

    GIVE YOUR MIND THE ULTIMATE BRAIN FOOD AND GET THE MENTAL EDGE YOUR MIND AND BODY DESERVE TODAY!

    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    PRODUCT REVIEW: Professional Microfiber Mop - 18" Professional Microfiber Mop | Stainless Steel Handle | Premium Mop Pads





    OH MAN! Let me tell you what, I LOVE THIS MOP!

    It was easy to put together, dusts like a dream, and mops up anything in my kitchen!

    I LOVE THIS MOP!
    (did I already say that?)

    I had already mopped my floor with my regular sponge mop, which I replace constantly because I like to scrub my floor clean. I waited two days to use this after I got it so the floor would get dirty again, haha!

    I have a 17 yr old son, 3 cats, myself, and a man walking through the house, and because the cats and kid, lol, won't wipe their paws/feet/shoes, we get dirt and trash brought into the home, naturally. Any little thing that will catch in the tread of shoes, though we do remove them inside the front door, can still be tracked into the rest of the home on socks or bare feet. 

    This mop made cleaning my kitchen floor so much easier than that nasty, cheap sponge mop. Because it's long-wide so to speak, I can turn it so that it fits back between my stove and cabinet, and actually REACH all the way to the wall! That means, there's no yuck on the floor near the back of the stove! WOOHOO!

    I also clean homes for a living, this made doing other people's kitchens so much easier on me and my back! (I have moderate scoliosis)


    There are some great ideas below on how to use this great mop/duster!

    My Rating: A+











    With your new mop you can quickly and effectively clean almost any hard surface floor; here are some ideas on how to use them effectively:
    • Adjust the length of the handle so it's just under your chin when its vertical. When you're using it keep the mop just in front of your feet. This will help you keep your back straight when mopping.
    • The dust mop is the single pad with the dark blue microfiber yarn around the edges and the gray microfiber yarn in the middle. Don't use it wet. The wet mops are the two thick light blue pads.
    • Dust mop often, its quicker and easier than wet mopping and the more often you dust mop the less often you'll need to get a deeper clean with the wet mops.
    • You probably don't need to launder the dust mop after each use. The wet mops should be thoroughly rinsed out after each use or laundered.
    • When wet mopping make sure the wet mop isn't completely drenched. You just want it damp. If its totally saturated with water or cleaning solution there's no space left for it to pick up dirt!
    • When wet mopping start in the far corner of the area to be mopped. Work backwards through the area moving the mop in almost a figure eight motion.

    Good microfiber mops should last for years when cared for properly and these are most certainly good microfiber mops! There are three things to keep in mind when washing microfiber:
    • Don't use fabric softener or detergents with softeners. Fabric softener clogs up the open spaces in the fiber that make them so effective.
    • Don't dry the microfiber in your dryer on high heat. Instead, air dry or dry them in the dryer on low heat or no heat.
    • Don't wash or dry microfiber with cotton! Cotton lints and microfiber picks up and holds on to everything. Ideally you should wash microfiber only with other microfiber, but if you cant make a full load with microfiber its okay to wash it with other synthetics that don't lint.

    FIND IT HERE> http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KAIU6BA/ref=cm_cr_ryp_prd_ttl_sol_0

    AND MORE PRODUCTS HERE> http://www.amazon.com/gp/aag/main?marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&seller=A2AV5QWMR0ML75&ref_=pe_823600_114105210

    • #MicrofiberWholesale

    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    PRODUCT REVIEW: Naturalico firming cellulite cream






    I started using this on the outside of my right thigh only, because I really wanted to compare the two in the a mirror and be able to tell a significant difference. And I can! 

    Even the skin is firmer, and I can certainly tell that underneath the top layer of skin I am not as noticeably 'bumpy' as what is on my left thigh.

    The cream has a slight odor to it, nothing overpowering, it has a medium thickness and spreads well. It did not sting my skin nor leave it sticky.

    I am very pleased with this product!

    My Rating: A






    FIND IT HERE> http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LM3L90Y

    AND HERE> http://bellanaturals.us/



    #cellulitecream


    Product Description

    CELLULITE CREAM with RETINOL & CAFFEINE - Get Rid of Cellulite ★ Best Skincare Treatment Body Cream for Skin Firming and Cellulite Reduction ★ Soothes The Skin & Overall Appearance of Skin is more Improved, Toned & Restored ★Clinically Proven To Eliminate Cellulite ★ Give You The Results You've Been Looking For ★ *** MADE IN USA By Naturalico ***


    • 1) Get Rid of Cellulite + Reduces the Appearance of Cellulite. Soothes the skin and helps it recover. MADE IN USA

      2) We are one of the products on the market that have the most Retinol & Caffeine.

      3)  - Best Skincare Treatment Body Cream for Skin Firming and Cellulite Reduction - Soothes The Skin &
      Overall appearance of skin is improved, toned & restored. Skin becomes smoother & firmer - Clinically Proven To Eliminate Cellulite - Give You The Results You've Been Looking For
      Caffeine encourages the body to burn fatty tissue

      4) * Retinol enhances collagen production, encourages skin renewal and helps tighten and firm the skin. * L-Carnitine helps the body metabolize fat * Green Tea stimulates the release of stored fat * Glaucine which is Responsible For Decreasing Fat Deposits * Coenzyme-A breaks down fat and helps restore connective tissue Active Ingredient Glaucine and Caffeine which Contains Theophylline Helps Successfully Treat Cellulite and Decrease Cellulite Fat Deposits and Stretch Marks

       
    6 Active Anti-Cellulite powerhouse ingredients Caffeine, Retinol, L-Carnitine, Green Tea, Glaucine and   Coenzyme-A work together to smooth those lumpy bumpy cottage cheese thighs and firm that jiggly butt.
      
    Now You Can Turn to Firm and Vibrant Skin in Just a Few Short Weeks! 
     - Formulated with Clinically Proven Active Ingredients Caffeine and Retinol
     - Perfect for Reducing Your Cellulite caused by Pregnancy or Weight Loss 
     - Revolutionary Anti-Cellulite Cream Returns the Firmer, Smoother You 
     - You’ll Love the Refreshing Fragrance   


    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    October 19, 2014

    PRODUCT REVIEW: Spooky Eyes Colored Eye Contacts

    My 17 yr old son and I had the best time with these contacts right after getting them! He got Blackouts, and I got the Vampire Reds.

    As soon as I saw the red ones, I went right out and bought my first ever, full, genuine costume from a store! (instead of just putting together an outfit from home).

    Zach is into Cosplay so he'll be teaming this up with a really cool outfit for Halloween as well.

    After Halloween has come and gone, I'll add updated photos, for now, here's the ones we already have from being excited  ;)


    VAMPIRE RED:


    BLACKOUTS:





    Find them here> http://www.spookyeyes.com

    I was given this product in return for an honest review.

    October 18, 2014

    PRODUCT REVIEW: Vegan Dark Arriba Cacao Chocolate (GIVEAWAY CLOSED)





    Mmmm, I do love some good, real chocolate! I tried this medium that you see in the photo and enjoyed it very much. Would be great in baking as well!

    My Rating: A




    Where to buy: http://www.cocoacravings.com/708-vegan-dark-arriba-chocolate-65.html

    #CocoaCravings


    Cocoa Cravings chocolate bars are made from the fabled "Criollo Arriba beans" and use a recipe based on a simple combination of cacao beans, cane sugar and pure vanilla.

    Why Cocoa Cravings ?
    Distinctive.  High Quality. Pure Ingredients. Exceptional Taste.

    For the chocolate lover in all of us, Cocoa Cravings mixes will hold a special place for you. With Cocoa Cravings, you get nothing artificial, nothing over engineered – just top notch ingredients, prepared exactly the way they should be with care, style and dedication.


    Chocolate Bars - Vegan Gourmet!
    Cocoa Cravings chocolate bars are made from the fabled “Criollo Arriba beans” and use a recipe based on a simple combination of cacao beans, cane sugar and pure vanilla.
    • Vegan Dark Arriba Chocolate 55% (classic familiar)
      Vegan Dark Arriba Chocolate 65% (mellow and rich)
      Vegan Dark Chocolate Bar 71% (full bodied) 





    LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW
    letting me know your all-time favorite dessert! PLEASE include your email so I can contact you if you win!!
    I will put the numbers of each commenter in Random.org and a winner will be announced WEDNESDAY NIGHT 
    10/22/2014. Winner will be contacted via email and has 48 hrs to respond or another winner will be chosen. Company will provide the prize.


    <><><><><>TRACI<><><><><>
    CONGRATS!!




    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    PRODUCT REVIEW: E-book: Clean Food Diet by Jonathan Vine





    Another great book by Jonathan on clean eating. He described exactly what "clean eating" is, what it involves, how to incorporate it into your life, and wonderful step-by-step recipes.

    I definitely recommend this book!

    My Rating: A




    Find it here> http://www.amazon.com/Clean-Food-Diet-Vegetarian-Collection-ebook/dp/B00O062AU8/ref=cm_rdp_product

    Book Description:
    Would you like to improve your health and boost your immune system?
    You can do it with clean food diet!
    Clean eating improves your health, it boosts your immune system, it helps you think better, it makes your skin look better, it makes your hair shine, and your tummy feel much better as well. And all with just a few simple lifestyle changes! Not in a month or two, but now! Now is the time for that change, now is the time to feel better;do this for yourself and be grateful for it!
    Clean eating is a challenge, given the amount of processed foods you can find on the market. It sounds harder than it actually is, and once you get started and taste real, clean food and get to testify to its benefits later on, there’s nothing stopping you.
    Every single food we buy at the supermarket has at least one additive to preserve it better, to make it look better, or to taste better. But luckily in the last few years, you can see that many people have stopped eating whatever, whenever and began to become more interested in where their food comes from, how it is being produced, what it contains, and what health benefits it has. This has led to a movement that is trending more and more called clean eating.
    In "Clean Food Diet" you will discover:
    • What is clean eating is
      What to eat
      How to eat clean
      How to cook clean
    50 simple recipes to jumpstart your new lifestyle:
    • Appetizers
      Soups
      Salads
      Main Dishes
      Desserts

    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    PRODUCT REVIEW: E-book: The Weight Loss & Detox Secret - Green Smoothies by Jonathan Vine




    Jonathan did a great joke writing this book! He includes an explanation of what "Green Smoothies" are, what the benefits are from juicing, weight loss info, and great recipes.

    I enjoyed trying the Kale & Blueberry, the Spinach & Citrus, and the Spiced Pumpkin (it has molasses!) and they were great! I can't wait to try the others!

    My Rating: A






    Find it here> http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00M121T96/ref=oh_aui_d_detailpage_o04_?ie=UTF8&psc=1


    Ebook Description :
    Want to jump-start your weight loss and improve your health?
    This book reveals the weight loss and detox secrete.
    Let me introduce to you the newest fast food: the green smoothie. This mixture of sun ripened fruits and earth harvested vegetables can be made in seconds. You can say “Goodbye,” to the regret that normally comes along with eating fast food.
    Green smoothies are nutritious, providing your body with vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants. Packed with nutrients used to fight diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease, you will begin to wonder why you have gone so long without enjoying green smoothies.
    In this book you will discover:
    • What is a Green Smoothie?
      What’s So Good About Green Smoothies?
      Nutritional Value and Health Benefits of Green Smoothies
      The Healthiest Weight Loss Program Methodology
      Types of Green Smoothies
      Tasty Tips
    50 delicious recipes inside
    The book includes 50 delicious recipes that use green leafy vegetables, fruits and non-dairy milk or yogurt to create nutritious, filling drinks for your day-to-day menu.
    Whether you are brand new to the world of green smoothies or you’ve enjoyed them in the past, don’t miss this great book!
    Each recipe offers different variations or tips and tricks so your job is truly simple: follow the recipes and enjoy a glass of pure, healthy food!

    I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

    October 17, 2014

    10 Health Screenings All Women Should Have

    10 Health Screenings All Women Should Have

    These 10 are a good start.

    1. Blood pressure screening. 

    Starting at age 18, every woman needs to have her blood pressure checked at least every two years. This health screening involves wrapping a cuff around the arm and pumping it up tightly. Ideal blood pressure for women is less than 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). If your insurance doesn’t cover a blood pressure screening (though most insurance companies do), check into free screenings in your community.

    2. Cholesterol check. 

    Women should have their cholesterol checked at least every five years starting at about age 20. This screening is important for decreasing your risk of heart disease, and can be done at your doctor’s office or at a lab with a doctor’s order, as the test only involves drawing a blood sample. Some community health fairs offer quick cholesterol screenings, involving nothing but a finger-prick. If you get a high reading on this screening test, you will be referred to your doctor for more complete testing. The ideal level is below 200 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) for total cholesterol.

    3. Pap smears and pelvic exams. 

    Beginning at age 21, or earlier if you are sexually active, women need to have a pelvic exam and Pap smear every two years to check for any abnormalities in the reproductive system. Guidelines for this cervical cancer screening recently changed from once a year, as studies found no benefit to such frequent screenings. Barring any problems, women age 30 and older only need a Pap smear every three years if they have had three normal tests in a row. To take the Pap smear, a speculum is placed inside the vagina to widen the vaginal canal, and your doctor uses a small tool to take cells from the cervix to detect any cell changes that can lead to cervical cancer. Your doctor can also screen for sexually transmitted diseases.

    4. Mammograms and breast exams. 

    Starting around age 20, women should have a clinical breast exam at least every three years until age 40, when this should be done annually, according to most experts. This is a manual exam — your doctor uses her fingers to examine the breasts for any lumps or abnormalities. A mammogram is a screening test for breast cancer and involves applying moderate compression to the breasts so that X-ray images can be captured. Mammograms are done every one or two years once you turn 40. Despite a recent government task force recommendation to push the start of mammograms back to age 50, the American Cancer Society still recommends earlier screening.

    5. Bone density screen. 

    Women should start getting screened for osteoporosis with a bone density test at age 65. Women with risk factors for osteoporosis, such as having a slender frame or a fractured bone, should be screened earlier. For this test, you lie on the table while a scanning machine takes X-ray images of certain bones in your body. Healthy bones show a T-score (the measurement used to describe your bone density) of -1 or higher. The frequency of this health screening varies from woman to woman based on bone density and risk factors.

    6. Blood glucose tests. 

    Women should get a blood glucose test every three years starting at age 45 to test for diabetes or pre-diabetes. Before age 45, you may need to have your blood glucose levels tested if you have symptoms of diabetes or several risk factors. Your blood sample can be taken and tested at your doctor’s office or a lab. The range of normal test results can vary, but generally a test result of 100 mg/dL or higher indicates pre-diabetes or diabetes.

    7. Colon cancer screening. 

    Colon cancer screening tests for women generally start at age 50. Depending on the type of test, you will have this health screening at a doctor’s office or a hospital. The more traditional tests are the flexible sigmoidoscopy, a procedure in which a lighted tube and camera are inserted through the anus to look at the lower part of the colon, and a colonoscopy, which involves a longer tube to examine the entire colon. Unless a problem is found, a flexible sigmoidoscopy needs to be repeated every 5 to 10 years and a colonoscopy only every 10 years. The non-invasive virtual colonoscopy is another option. People with a greater risk of colon cancer may need earlier or more frequent cancer screening tests.

    8. Body mass index. 

    A full yearly physical exam includes measurements of your height and weight and a calculation of your body mass index (BMI). You can also calculate your BMI at home using an online BMI calculator. BMI indicates obesity, which can assess the risk of serious health conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

    9. Skin examination. 

    Women should examine their skin every month starting at age 18, and by the time they’re 20, a doctor or dermatologist should conduct the examination during a routine check-up. Women should carefully inspect the skin all over their bodies, looking for any new moles or changes to existing moles to spot the early signs of skin cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology offers free skin cancer screenings from dermatologists.

    10. Dental check-up. 

    Good dental health is important from the moment your first baby tooth sprouts, and all adult women need twice-yearly dental check-ups and cleanings. Regular dental check-ups, which involve examining the teeth and sometimes taking X-rays, can keep teeth healthy and spot early signs of decay or any problems with the mouth or teeth.

    Because these tests are considered preventive, many insurance plans cover them. However, there may be certain criteria that you have to meet, such as the reason for the test, the time elapsed since your last test, your age at the time of the test, whether the provider is in your plan’s network, and other rules.
    Medically reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH