Women’s health is an important topic that needs to be discussed more openly with young girls, new mothers, and older women. These women need to be fully informed of what their bodies are capable of and what they need to watch out for in terms of unique diseases to the female body.
Endometriosis, for example, is a women-specific condition that can cause fertility problems. Without proper information, women will be caught off guard with potential diseases that can develop throughout their lives. It can cause fear and panic, which is unnecessary, as some of these diseases can be controlled and prevented with certain health measures.
Women’s health care should be a priority for all. Health centers are trusted sources for inquiries regarding women-specific health concerns, and concerned individuals should not hesitate to approach them about any inquiry. Health care these days is of utmost importance, and women should be aware of that.
Women-specific Diseases
Despite the progress in modern technology and contemporary policies, there might still be concerns about women’s health that need to be addressed today. Women of all ages need to be equipped with information about their health and the potential diseases they encounter specific to their gender. Women-specific diseases need to be discussed openly to start a healthy dialogue about women’s valid concerns about their bodies.
Here are some women-specific diseases that women should be informed about.
One of the common concerns regarding women’s health is having uterine fibroids. These growths often appear during a woman’s childbearing years. When these noncancerous growths appear, a woman might not even notice, given that this condition often has no symptoms. Some women who experience symptoms might notice heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or prolonged menstrual periods.
For those with ovarian cancer in their family history, it is best to consult with your doctor to check for gene mutations and assess your risk. Ovarian cancer, if in the early stage, might not bring about any symptoms. However, advanced-stage ovarian cancer can include weight loss, abdominal swelling, or pelvic discomfort.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition. Many women who have this condition are often not aware of it. PCOS can cause infertility in women as the condition affects a woman’s ovulation. Common symptoms of PCOS are weight gain, acne, and irregular menstruation.
These are only some common women-specific health conditions. To prevent or learn to control these potential conditions, it is best to consult with your trusted doctor. There is no shame in wanting to be informed about your own body. Rather, it is better to know how your body works to take full care of it.
Women’s Health Myths
To have an informed women’s population, it is important to debunk some common myths about women’s health. Believing in these myths might be detrimental to one’s health, so it is best to learn the facts.
Wearing bras does not cause cancer. The chances of getting breast cancer can be lowered through weight management and limiting alcohol intake. It is also necessary to get mammograms every year after turning 45 to help detect cancer early.
If you and your partner are trying to conceive, eating certain foods will not help you get pregnant. It is difficult to struggle with getting pregnant, but it is important to listen to the experts about what you can do with your situation. Consult a gynecologist to see if you need any medications or hormone therapy to assist in the process.
Get tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) if you have had unprotected sex. It is dangerous to wait for symptoms to appear. Many STIs do not show symptoms, such as when infected with gonorrhea or chlamydia.
When hearing new information about women’s health, make sure to check the source. It should be confirmed that the information has come from a reliable source before applying it to your personal healthcare.
It’s Doctor Time
If you have any concerns about your health, it is always best to consult a medical professional. Females who belong to the 11 and 18 age range can still consult with a pediatrician or a doctor for family medicine. However, these girls can already consult a gynecologist for specific concerns such as delayed puberty or painful menstrual cycles.
Going to the doctor might seem intimidating but bear in mind that these doctors do not intend to harm or embarrass you. Medical consultations should be a safe place for you to discuss your concerns about your body.
Women’s health is an important topic to discuss with women in the family as these dialogues will help them keep safe and informed about their bodies and how they work.