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A Lifetime of Care: A Timeline of Women’s Health from Birth to Beyond

Women’s health isn’t a one-size-fits-all topic—it’s a lifelong journey. From the first menstrual cycle to post-menopause and everything in between, our bodies change, evolve, and deserve care at every step. At Sunshine CHC, we’re proud to walk alongside women of all ages with compassionate, comprehensive services tailored to each phase of life.


Here’s a look at the timeline of women’s health—and how we support you every step of the way.


👶 Birth to Age 12: Foundations for a Healthy Start

  • Pediatric wellness visits

  • Vaccinations and immunizations

  • Education on hygiene, safety, and early puberty signs


Childhood is about building a healthy foundation. At SCHC, we provide family-centered pediatric care to ensure our youngest community members grow up strong, safe, and supported.



💬 “If I’m not at 100%, my boys won’t be either. I take care of my health so I can show up for them.” – Lily, Patient Services Specialist

🌸 Ages 12–18: Puberty, Periods & Early Prevention

  • HPV vaccination (recommended between ages 11–12)

  • First menstrual cycle education

  • Sexual health education and open discussions

  • Introduction to mental health support


As teens begin to understand their changing bodies, we’re here to offer guidance without judgment. Our providers create a safe, respectful space to answer questions and offer preventive care.



💬 “I tell my girls to try to get a yearly checkup and stay on top of getting their vaccines for women’s health and to be aware of any changes.” – Brandy, Billing A/R Specialist

💕 Ages 18–29: Independence, Reproductive Choices & Mental Wellness

  • Annual wellness exams

  • Pap smears begin at age 21

  • Birth control consultations & STI testing

  • Family planning discussions

  • Therapy and mental health support


This phase is about learning to advocate for your own health and building consistent habits.


💬 “Don’t wait for something to be wrong before you reach out for care. You deserve to be supported before things hit a crisis point… your voice matters every step of the way.” – Chris, CMO Administrative Assistant

We offer a full spectrum of birth control options, sexual health services, and compassionate behavioral health care to help you thrive.


👩‍🍼 Ages 30–39: Fertility, Parenting & Hormonal Balance

  • Preconception counseling & pregnancy care

  • Postpartum mental health screening

  • Hormone and menstrual cycle evaluations

  • Mammograms may begin based on family history

  • Peer support for recovery or behavioral health needs

Motherhood (or deciding not to parent) is a deeply personal journey. SCHC supports you with reproductive health services, maternal mental health care, and education on hormone wellness.



💬 “Postpartum baby blues/depression/psychosis is a very real thing… and hormones? I could talk all day about how much it affects us when they’re ‘wonky.’” – Chelsea, Coder/Billing Specialist


💬 “Women in recovery shouldn’t be afraid to speak up. Recovery is beautiful—it brings more self-awareness and self-respect.” – Heather, Peer Support Specialist

🎗 Ages 40–49: Midlife Health Checks & Mammograms

  • Start routine mammograms (age 40+)

  • Monitor perimenopause symptoms

  • Blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart health screenings

  • STI testing and hormone level monitoring

  • Mental health therapy and stress management


As hormones begin to shift, perimenopause symptoms may emerge—along with increased risks for heart disease and certain cancers. SCHC offers screenings, support, and strategies to help you feel balanced and in control.



💬 "I think the most important thing a woman can do for her health is to keep up to date with her own preventative care.  Pap Smears, and Mammograms are two very important and easy screenings to have completed.  Following the recommended intervals for screening based off of your age and family health history increases treatability and positive out comes should any abnormalities be identified." - Alexis, Lab Coordinator

🔄 Ages 50–64: Menopause & Preventive Care

  • Menopause management and support

  • Bone density testing (begin by age 65, or sooner based on risk)

  • Continued mammograms and cervical screenings

  • Mental and emotional wellness check-ins

  • Health coaching for chronic condition management


Hormone levels may decline, but your health and vitality don’t have to. We provide menopause care, screenings, and whole-person wellness plans to help you navigate this stage with strength and grace.




💛 Ages 65 and Beyond: Aging with Strength & Dignity

  • Fall prevention screenings

  • Continued cancer screenings as needed

  • Cognitive health evaluations

  • Emotional and social connection support

  • End-of-life care planning with compassion


Aging is not a loss—it’s a transition. Our team is committed to supporting women in aging well, staying connected, and receiving the care they deserve at every level.



🧭 No Matter Your Age—We’re Here for You

Whether you’re a teen seeking answers, a mom navigating postpartum emotions, a woman managing menopause, or a grandmother aging with intention—Sunshine CHC offers care that adapts to your needs.


And if you ever feel unsure about what care you need or how to access it—our Patient Advocates are ready to help.




💬 “We help patients connect with travel and resources so they can make it to their medical and behavioral health appointments.” – Chelsea, Patient Advocate

🗓 Your Timeline. Your Health. Your Community Clinic.

You deserve health care that grows with you. At every age and every stage, Sunshine CHC is ready to support your journey with expertise, kindness, and community-focused care.


📞 Call today to schedule an appointment, screening, or consultation.

Together, we’re building a healthier future—one woman, one story, one step at a time.



Centro Comunitario de Salud Sunshine

1-907-376-2273 (ATENCIÓN)

*This article was written with the support of AI*

P: 907-733-2273 (ATENCIÓN)
F: 907-733-1735

34300 South Talkeetna Spur Rd
Talkeetna Alaska 99676

9:00 H - 17:00 H

Mon & Fri

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tues, Wed, & Thurs

Talkeetna

P: 907-495-4100
F: 907-495-8121

24091 Long Lake Road
Willow Alaska 99688

8:00 - 17:00

Mon - Fri

Sauce

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Para nuestro servicio fuera de horario, llame al 1-907-733-2273 (CARE).

En caso de urgencia médica, llame al 911.

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