Preventive Health Care for Women

Breast feeding:

Breast feeding an infant is highly recommended and supported by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) instead of using formula or cow’s milk. Pump breast milk to provide breast milk to the infant when the mother cannot be with the baby. When breast milk cannot be used for any reason, use a formula with hydrolyzed whey.

Pap smear:

In 21-65 year old women, a cytology screening is strongly recommended by the USPSTF every 3 years or a cytology plus HPV test every 5 years may be done instead for women between the age of 30 and 65 (42). The USPSTF recommends against cervical cancer screening in women: a) younger than age 21 years; b) older than age 65 years who have had adequate prior screening and are not otherwise at high risk for cervical cancer; and c) who have had a hysterectomy with removal of the cervix and who do not have a history of a high-grade precancerous lesion or cervical cancer (52). Additionally, in women younger than age 30 years, the USPSTF recommends against screening for cervical cancer with HPV testing, alone or in combination with cytology (52).