In Your 30s: Women's Health at UPMC in South Central Pa.

If you thought your 20s were a whirlwind, life as a 30-something is busier and more exciting than ever! Keeping up with work, kids and the home can often leave you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. Even if you don’t feel or look much different than you did a few years ago, there’s no doubt your body is changing little by little. It’s a normal part of growing older.

Health Challenges in Your 30s

You are unique, and so are your health concerns. If you’re like many women who are waiting well into their 30s to have children, it’s more important than ever that you're in good health and have early prenatal care to ensure a normal pregnancy and healthy baby.

But there are risks. Your fertility decreases in your 30s, particularly after age 35, so it may take longer to get pregnant. The chances of miscarriage and pregnancy-related health problems increase for women age 35 and older, as do risks for birth defects.

You may have other health concerns such as:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Keeping your skin looking fresh and more youthful
• Managing other reproductive issues, such as choosing the right birth control
• Preventing bone loss
• Reducing stress

Preventing Health Problems

To feel your best, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine and get regular checkups and health screenings with your physician as well as your gynecologist or obstetrician.

Here are some tips to help reduce your risk for illness and maintain health into your 30s and beyond:

• Do not smoke or use tobacco products
• Wear sunscreen
• Drink alcohol only in moderation, if at all (no more than one drink per day)
• Avoid illegal drugs and substances
• Use prescription and over-the-counter drugs only as directed
• Make time for yourself and for relationships that are important to you
• Monitor your body mass index (BMI), blood pressure and cholesterol and keep them within healthy ranges

UPMC Pinnacle services that can help you stay healthy through your 30s:

• Primary Care
• Breast Care Center
• Genetic Counseling
• Gynecology
• Infertility
• Mental Health Services

Contact Us

Looking for a doctor? Want more information about our services? Call our contact center at 717-231-8900 for more information or help choosing a physician near you.