This week, May 12-18, we observe National Women’s Health. This awareness strives to emphasize the significance of women’s health concerns and encourage all women to make their health a top priority. Come along with us as we explore the importance of prevention, care, and well-being in the field of women’s health.
Regular Checkups
Getting regular checkups, including a yearly women’s exam, is one of the most important steps to improving your health. At your checkup, your physician will review your health habits and medical history, along with conducting a thorough physical examination. Prevention and early detection are key to treating disease, and regular physical exams are the best place to start. Your medical provider will also talk with you about your health goals and how you can work to achieve them.
Regular exercise has numerous benefits for all people, however, being active holds even greater importance for women’s health.
Photo credit: Emily Martin ©2020
Physical Activity
Regular exercise has numerous benefits for all people; however, being active holds even greater importance for women’s health for several reasons. First, regular exercise reduces the likelihood of osteoporosis, a condition prevalent among women that leads to bone weakening. Weight training is a great way to increase bone strength and muscle mass in women and prevent this condition. Along with osteoporosis, women also have a higher risk of developing heart disease than men. Aerobic exercise is one of the best ways women can strengthen their cardiovascular system and reduce their risk for heart disease.
Healthy Eating
Women also have unique nutritional needs that need to be met. Calcium is vital for strong bones, and ensuring adequate calcium intake from a young age can mitigate bone density loss in later years. Vitamin D is also important as it aids in the absorption of calcium, and many women don’t get enough of it. Iron and folic acid are both nutrients that are especially important for women of childbearing age. Lastly, foods high in fiber are beneficial for women in regard to blood sugar management and colon health. Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider about your specific nutritional needs.
Mental Health
In the United States, more than 1 in 5 women encountered a mental health issue in the past year, such as anxiety or depression. Mental health can impact relationships, self-esteem, job performance, and even physical well-being. Action steps such as self-care, social support, and quality sleep are all vital when it comes to improving mental health. If these behavior changes don’t improve how you’re feeling, it is important to seek professional help.
We should aim to highlight the importance of women’s health not only this week but all throughout the year. Through prevention, care, and well-being, we can strive to showcase the importance of women’s health issues and inspire women of all ages to prioritize their health.
Related Resources:
HGIC 4398, Preventing Complications with Health Screenings
HGIC 4018, Get Your Calcium-Rich Foods
Sources:
- “Do women have nutritional needs that men don’t?” Prisma Health. © 2024 Prisma Health. 1 Feb 2024. Web. 29 April 2024.
- “Exercise has special benefits for women, experts say.” BU today. © 2024 Trustees of Boston University. 28 Sept 2005. Web. 29 April 2024.
- “Mental Health.” Office on Women’s Health. Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. N.d. 29 April 2024.
- “National Women’s Health Week.” Center for Disease Control and Prevention. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. N.d. web. 29 April 2024.
