Check-in on your cervical health 🔬
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), women and people who menstruate should get a cervical exam (aka pap smear) every three years from ages 21-29, and every five years from ages 30-65. There is an exception to this rule: if you received an abnormal result following your last exam, you should schedule one for this year to rule out an underlying issue. Paps are not recommended until age 21, and you can stop them after age 65 if you’ve been consistent with previous exams.
Mark your calendar to feel yourself 📅
The best way to identify an abnormality in your breast is to know what a healthy breast feels like. That’s why we’re marking our calendar every month, roughly around the first day of our menstrual cycle, to literally feel ourselves. Knowing what your breasts normally feel like will make it easier to identify if something is “off” in the future.
Always forgetting to take your birth control pill? Set a recurring alarm ⏰
Oral contraceptives are 99% effective when taken perfectly, AKA at the same time everyday. When taken less perfectly, the effectiveness rate goes down to 91%. Get the most out of your birth control and set a daily alarm to remind you to take your birth control. And of course, make sure you have the morning-after pill on-hand for those oopsie moments.
Double check the insurance you have on-file with healthcare providers ✔️✔️
It’s a new year, meaning your insurance coverage might have changed. Double check your records to ensure your insurance card on record with your healthcare providers and pharmacies is up-to-date. And if you’re a patient at The Pill Club, head to your dashboard and confirm your insurance information today.
Book your dentist appointment 🦷
Did you know that your oral health is tied to heart health? Yep, you read that right. Taking care of your teeth and gums are critical to your overall health and wellness, making the dentist an important person to visit at least twice each year. If your pearly whites + heart aren’t enough reason to book your appointment, think about your bank account—the longer you push off your annual cleaning, the higher your chances of needing a lot of [expensive] dental work.
Find and schedule time with a Primary Care Physician 🗓️
Finding a Primary Care Physician (aka PCP) is a key part of living a long, healthy life. Finding one you trust takes time, so don’t be afraid to interview potential providers to ensure you find the right person for you. Your PCP should be your advocate in all things healthcare, so if you’ve yet to find your match, make it a priority this year.