Women’s health is of great importance to themselves and the society at large. But maintaining your health as a woman can be a complex affair.
From the acne that may come with puberty and the cramps of menstruation to the hot flashes of menopause – each phase of womanhood comes with its unique challenges and peculiarities. You could wake up one day and find yourself searching online ‘What is clitoral atrophy’? Or be in severe pain from a fracture due to loss of bone density.
Maintaining your health as a woman takes a level of intentionality that you must make time for. This article will guide you on essential things you should do to care for your health as a woman.
Puberty – Introduction to Womanhood
Puberty comes with raging hormones. Your body transforms, and you get mood swings. However, this is the time to lay the foundation for a lifetime of good health. Here’s what you can do:
- Start regular doctor visits for routine checkups. Build a relationship with your healthcare provider and monitor your growth and development.
- Girls as young as 11 should get vaccinated to protect against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a leading cause of cervical cancer.
- Your menstrual cycle gives you important clues about your health. A normal cycle can vary, but severe pain, irregularity, or super-heavy flow may require medical attention.
The Menstruation Years – Care for Your 20s and 30s
In your 20s and 30s, you’re in your prime. But you are also juggling career, relationships, and family. You should be extra mindful of your physical and mental health.
- Get regular checkups on your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, and iron levels.
- Pap smears should be on your radar. These screen for abnormal cervical cells, which could turn into cancer if not caught early.
- If you are sexually active, protect yourself by getting tested for sexually transmitted infections.
- Perform breast self-exams to check for lumps or unusual changes every month. You can also talk to your doctor about a clinical breast exam.
Childbearing Years – Hello Motherhood
When you are ready to bring new life into the world, there are other actions you can take beyond supplementation with folic acid. They are critical for both you and your baby’s health.
- Once you’re pregnant, regular checkups are a must. These help track your baby’s growth and ensure both of you stay healthy.
- After giving birth, your postpartum body needs attention. Pelvic exams and mental health support help with recovery.
The 40s – Transition to Perimenopause
Your 40s come with yet another change. As your body prepares for menopause, this is the time to stay proactive and in tune with your health.
- Once you hit 40, mammograms become important for early detection of breast lumps. So schedule these screenings every 1-2 years, depending on your risk (family history of breast cancer or results of genetic testing).
- At this stage, your period might become irregular. Hot flashes or mood swings could be your new reality. Talk to your doctor about hormone levels and symptom management.
- Perimenopause brings a drop in estrogen levels, which can affect bone health. Talk to your doctor about calcium, vitamin D, and whether you need a bone density test to prevent osteoporosis.
- The risk of heart disease rises as you age. So you will want to monitor those parameters like blood pressure and cholesterol that can affect your arteries.
Menopause and Beyond – Golden Years, Golden Health
Menopause is like a health checkpoint, not an end. You don’t stop with the health habits you have established already. In addition to heart screening, hormone replacement therapy, breast, and cervical cancer screenings add a colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer.
It’s a Wrap
No matter your stage in life, self-care routines go hand-in-hand with these preventative screenings. Stay active with meditation and exercise.
Eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods such as lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and veggies to fuel your body. Also, reduce stress and anxiety to care for your mental well-being. You should get enough sleep as well.
