It’s important for women to take care of their health, but sometimes it can be hard to know what to look out for. Here are 5 women’s health issues that you should keep an eye on. By being aware of these potential problems, you can catch them early and get the treatment you need.
Gynecologic Cancer
Pap smears are an important tool in tracking and preventing gynecologic cancer. Depending on your age, health, and sexual history, you should begin to get Pap smears at different points in your life. For the most accurate Pap smear results, it is recommended that those 21 to 29 years of age get a Pap smear every 3 years, and those 30 to 65 years of age get one every 5 years with the HPV test. For women over 65 who have had regular Pap smears, it is not necessary to continue screening. Women must understand their risk factors and get a regular pap smear to receive the best possible care.
Breast Cancer
Breast self-exams play a key role in breast cancer treatment and early detection. Regular breast self-checks allow an individual to become familiar with the look and feel of their breasts. It enables them to more readily identify any changes that may indicate breast cancer. If abnormal breast changes are noticed at an early stage, it increases the chances of successful treatment for breast cancer. Doctors usually recommend breast self-exams at least once a month, at the same point during a woman’s menstrual cycle. It is also recommended that women receive professional breast examinations from their doctor or healthcare provider regularly. Breast self-examination is an essential part of living a healthy lifestyle and taking proactive steps toward preventing breast cancer.
Ovarian Cancer
Early detection is the key to increasing the odds of successfully treating ovarian cancer. Women should be aware of any possible warning signs, such as persistent bloating, and pelvic, or abdominal pain. Other signs are difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and frequent urination. These warning signs may not directly signal ovarian cancer, but if they are unusually frequent and do not resolve on time it is important to see a doctor right away. Women who have experienced infertility or who take hormones for a medical condition should additionally monitor themselves carefully and talk to their doctors at any sign of trouble. It is also important to stay informed on one’s family history so that early action can be taken if necessary. With proper awareness and preventive measures, women are better equipped to protect their health.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a painful, chronic condition that affects up to 10% of reproductive-age women. Common symptoms of endometriosis include pelvic pain, particularly around menstruation and ovulation, increased menstrual cramping, lower back pain, and abnormal bleeding during or between periods. Painful bowel movements, heavy menstrual flow, difficulty conceiving, and fatigue can also be associated with endometriosis. Diagnosing this disorder is important since it can cause abnormal tissue growth in areas such as the bladder and bowel if left untreated. Fortunately, treatments are available which can reduce symptoms and increase the quality of life for those who have this condition.
STI
Knowing whether you have an STI can be difficult to determine without proper testing because many people do not experience any symptoms. Regular check-ups with your primary care provider are the best way to ensure that you are tested for any STIs during a routine physical exam. Additionally, getting tested if you experience symptoms such as burning or itching sensations when you pee, unusual discharge from the genitals, or sores or blisters near the genitals could all be signs of an STI and should be discussed with a doctor. While there is no shame in contracting an STI, it’s important to take the necessary steps to get it addressed before it gets out of hand. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
As a woman, it is important to stay up to date with your health and develop an understanding of your body. Regular pap smears are necessary for cervical cancer screening, so it is important to book an appointment with your gynecologist or primary care provider. Self-examinations can be employed to catch any signs of breast cancer early. If you feel pain in the reproductive area, it may be an indication of endometriosis. Additionally, STIs can often be asymptomatic. Get tested if you had unprotected intercourse or suspect that you might have contracted an infection. Lastly, join support groups and stay informed about any potential warning signs that could indicate a larger medical issue such as ovarian cancer.
By being proactive and staying up-to-date with your health knowledge and screenings, you can ensure that you live the longest, fullest life possible! Hope you found the article useful.
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