Essential Health Concerns for Women: Expert Insights and Tips

Don’t let hormones and health issues prevent you from living a full and happy life. Learn when to seek help with these expert tips.

Understanding Women’s Health

On International Women’s Day, we acknowledge all women experiencing health issues that make work and family life more challenging. From period complications and pregnancy to fertility struggles and menopause, women often face daily challenges that are not widely discussed or understood. The good news is that support and treatment are available when needed.

Below, a specialist shares insights and tips on women’s health issues and when to seek help.

Understanding Hormonal Impact

Women often underestimate the impact hormones have on their daily lives. Hormones significantly influence moods and energy levels, whether we feel happy and energetic or low and fatigued.

After menstruation, estrogen levels rise, improving mood. However, about 10 days before a period, higher progesterone levels can lead to lower moods and symptoms like acne, breast tenderness, headaches, and bloating. While some women experience none of these issues, others may be severely affected and require specialist intervention.

You don’t have to be ruled by your hormones. There are many ways to feel good most days, such as exercising, eating well, spending time with friends, and doing activities you enjoy. It’s also essential to treat yourself with kindness and take time out when needed. If a health issue significantly impacts your life, seek help from a specialist sooner rather than later. Talking to friends and family or using resources like social media can help you find the right support.

Key Health Issues and When to Seek Help

Heavy or Painful Periods

While it’s normal for some girls to experience painful or irregular periods in their first few years of menstruation, if you regularly need to take time off school or work due to period pain, it’s time to seek help. You should also visit your doctor if period pain or bleeding persists throughout the month or is severe. Conditions like endometriosis can cause troublesome periods.

Infertility

With the rising incidence of infertility, more women in the workforce are struggling to have a baby or are going through the IVF process. This time can be emotionally draining and exhausting, with various challenges impacting work and family life. Surround yourself with support and take care of your mental well-being and overall health to help you through this journey.

Postpartum Challenges

Pregnancy, having a new baby, and the social pressures of being a new mother can make you feel like you have to be superwoman. In any decision, including when and if you return to paid work, ensure you consider your health and well-being, as well as that of your young family. Remember, having a baby can significantly impact your physical and mental health, as well as your lifestyle.

Hormonal Fluctuations

These changes do not affect everyone the same way but can have a more significant impact from around the age of 40. If you feel the ups and downs of your monthly cycle are affecting your life too much, seek advice on what can be done. If you don’t get the answers you need, follow up with someone else. We are all wired differently, and there are many treatment options and paths to take.

Staying within a healthy weight range is one of the best things we can do for ourselves as we age. Obesity is predicted to become the number one women’s health issue, affecting women at younger ages and is associated with numerous health problems, including cancers, infertility, and heart disease. Keeping alcohol consumption in check is also crucial. Alcohol should not be used to treat stress or get through the day. For an excellent perspective on our relationship with alcohol, read The Wine O’Clock Myth by Lotta Dann.

Menopause

As we go through perimenopause and menopause, our bodies experience various changes, which can come as a surprise. It’s essential to educate yourself about menopause to help you through this time and know when to seek help. There is no need to fear Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) or Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT). These treatments offer many benefits for overall health and longevity, such as reducing the risk of heart disease.

During this time, it’s crucial to examine your lifestyle and prioritize activities that help you age well, such as sleep, exercise, eating well, staying mentally agile, and spending time with people who make you happy.