For most women in this age group, routine screening isn't something you'll need right now. But that doesn't mean your health isn't worth paying attention to. If you have a family history of certain conditions, a known genetic risk, or something that simply doesn't feel right, it's always worth having a conversation with your GP or specialist.
This page outlines the imaging options that may be relevant for some women in this age group - not as a checklist, but as a starting point for that conversation.
Please note: These are imaging-based pathways available within our private radiology setting. They are in addition to, and do not replace other screening programmes offered through Health New Zealand.
If you have a higher-than-average risk of ovarian cancer - for example, if you carry a BRCA gene variant or have a strong family history - your doctor may recommend an annual pelvic ultrasound alongside a CA-125 blood test, even before any symptoms appear.
A pelvic ultrasound is gentle, radiation-free, and well-suited to repeat monitoring over time. As part of an annual surveillance programme, it can help pick up subtle changes early, when options tend to be simpler - or simply offer reassurance when everything looks normal.
It's worth knowing that in people with a higher genetic risk, changes can sometimes appear earlier or behave differently than in the general population, which is why keeping a closer eye can make a real difference.
Ultrasound works best as part of a wider care plan - alongside genetic counselling, specialist review, and any other tests your team recommends. Think of it as one of several tools working together, each adding a different layer of understanding to your overall picture.
If you have a known genetic mutation or a significant family history, it's worth asking your doctor whether annual ultrasound monitoring might be right for you.
Your doctor may recommend a DEXA scan (which measures bone density and body composition) which is particularly relevant for women living with an eating disorder or Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S), where changes in energy intake, hormones, or menstrual cycles can quietly affect bone strength, muscle mass, and overall body composition.
A DEXA scan can help by:
It's a quick, non-invasive scan that uses very low levels of radiation. Results are always reviewed in the context of your wider health and clinical picture - it's never just a number in isolation.
Whether you're working with a dietitian, a sports medicine team, or a specialist, a DEXA scan can give everyone involved a clearer, more complete picture to work from.
You may have heard that WB-MR is able to ‘check for everything’ and find disease early. While it can be used for screening or early detection in some situations it is not a complete test for all diseases, and it's important to understand its limitations.
Currently there is no evidence to demonstrate significant improvement to your health outcomes using whole‑body MRI as a screening tool. It can also identify incidental or low‑risk findings that may lead to unnecessary anxiety and follow‑up tests. In addition to this, not all diseases are detectable on whole‑body MRI - particularly in the early stages - which can offer you false reassurance.
Whole-body MRI may be appropriate:
We recommend screening that is targeted, and evidence based, matched to your own risk profile, and using imaging that’s known to improve outcomes (such as bowel, lung and the other screening options defined above).
If you believe a whole-body MRI may be appropriate for you, please discuss the potential benefits, limitations, and suitability of the test with your doctor and arrange a referral to book your appointment with us.