Women are natural caregivers. We make sure our families are taken care of. Our children get their immunizations. We sit up at night with them when they are sick and take them for check-ups if their symptoms persist.

We make sure our families are fed, that hoods are up and zippers are zipped. We worry about our husbands, and ease their concerns when we can. We'll even take our cars for the oil change.

But do you remember when you had your last pap smear or mammogram? Did you get your cholesterol checked at the last Health Fair? Women have a natural tendency to neglect themselves while meeting the needs of others. We need to remember that by taking care of ourselves, we'll be better equipped to give our best to others.

The best way to start is to have an annual physical.

Women should start having a physical every year once they become sexually active, or at age 20, whichever is first. That physical should include a pap smear, pelvic exam, and a clinical breast exam.

We'll check your weight and blood pressure. If you're 40 or over, we'll recommend a mammogram (possibly earlier in certain circumstances). If you smoke, we'll ask you to quit and offer ways to help.

A wonderful asset to healthcare in Wyoming is the annual Health Fair.

If you don't have problems with your stomach, a coated baby aspirin a day can help prevent heart attack or stroke by keeping your blood from clotting so easily. Wear sunscreen, and ask your provider to look at your skin. Lastly, ask about recommended immunizations.

“If it isn't broken, don't fix it.” That, however, can be very deceiving. Most of the preventable health problems are very sneaky, and not “felt” until it's too late. Screening is very important to catch a disease early and take care of it before it's too late.

DON'T WAIT TO SCHEDULE YOUR PHYSICAL. YOUR FAMILY WILL THANK YOU!