How to Deal with and Prevent Women’s Common Health Concerns

Women are just as susceptible to various health conditions throughout their lives as men. Female bodies are also susceptible to mental health issues, especially during times of physiological change such as puberty, menstruation, and pregnancy.

In adulthood, women have to deal with their unique health conditions, from fertility issues to STDs and pregnancy-related complications. After menopause, some women begin suffering from several ailments brought on by lower estrogen levels in their bodies.

So, continue reading to learn more about common health concerns for women.

Women’s Health Quick Facts

Here are some quick facts about women’s health.

Major public health concerns are emerging in the 21st century for women’s health. These include cardiovascular disease, cancer, osteoporosis, depression and dementia, malaria, and AIDS/HIV infection.

Although it is common for both men and women to have stress and depression, women are more likely to be diagnosed with these conditions than men. Women typically have a higher level of estrogen, which can make them more optimistic. Yet, it also leads to increased feelings of guilt and anxiety.
The leading cause of disability in the U.S., Osteoarthritis, is significantly more common among women than men. This disparity may be partial because women reach menopause and thus begin to experience significant hormonal fluctuations and bone loss at a younger average age than men.

Common Conditions for Women

For women, medical conditions and diseases vary, as do their symptoms and responses to treatments. Understanding these differences is important for health care providers of both genders who are caring for female patients.

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Cardiovascular Disease

How to Deal with and Prevent Women's Common Health Concerns — How to Deal with and Prevent Women’s Common Health Concerns

Cardiovascular disease is more common in women than men. Women don’t often realize they have the disease until they suffer a heart attack or stroke. It is often overlooked and underdiagnosed by female patients.

According to the National Library of Medicine, women are more likely to experience heart disease 7 to 10 years later than men.

Some women who die suddenly from heart disease never report symptoms to their doctor. In light of this information, women must speak with their doctors about cardiovascular disease and take the proper steps to protect themselves.

Cancer

A second leading cause of death in women in the U.S. is cancer, claiming about 40,000 lives annually. Lung cancer, which accounts for about 70,000 female deaths a year, has overtaken breast cancer as the top cause of cancer death in women.

Cancer is a threat that all women face, but knowing the facts can save lives. Understanding the most common cancer types among women can help you stay informed about what you need to know about prevention and treatment options.

Early detection offers a much better chance of survival, so regular self-examinations are important for your cancer prevention plan.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis weakens the bone and makes it prone to fractures. It affects older women the most, causing their bones to break more easily.

Eating food rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus, doing weight-bearing exercises such as walking, dancing, weight training, and not smoking can reduce the risk of osteoporosis-related fracture.

Depression

Depression is a pervasive and persistent sad, anxious or empty mood. Symptoms include:

Fatigue
Sleeping too much or the opposite, exhaustion
Losing pleasure or interest in activities you used to enjoy

Suicidal behavior

Most occurrences of depression are mild to moderate.

According to the Mayo Clinic, about 10 to 15 percent of women suffer from depression. Women are twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with depression.

The symptoms often aren’t as visible. However, you can still recognize it. When a woman suddenly lacks emotion and interest, something might be wrong.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)

Sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, are a top concern in women’s sexual health. STDs are a serious concern in women’s sexual health because they can cause infertility, pregnancy complications, and cancer if left undiagnosed. Common STDs include:

HPV
HIV
Syphilis

Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Genital herpes

Women who experience vaginal discharge or pain while urinating should visit their gynecologist to ensure they do not have an STD. Generally, women can avoid STDs by using latex condoms, knowing their partner’s history, and receiving vaccinations.

Conclusion

Throughout a woman’s life, her reproductive cycle is an important indicator of her overall health and wellness. The menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and post-pregnancy are periods in which the female body is more vulnerable to certain diseases or conditions. Understanding them can help women take better care of themselves and live happier lives.

References:

https://www.create-health.com.au/about-us

https://www.drugwatch.com/health/women/

https://www.ncsl.org/research/health/improving-womens-health-2013.aspx

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3018605/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression/art-20047725