Today, most females are worried about a large number of womens health issues. From losing weight to pregnancy and everything in between, the women of today strive to keep themselves healthier and happier by taking care of themselves and taking charge of addressing their health issues.
Weight is definitely at the top of womens health issues. Studies by the American Obesity Association show that as many as 60% of American women are overweight with almost 30% being obese. Most women would feel more positive about themselves if they thought they looked good, so being overweight can be damaging – both mentally and physically. To avoid illnesses like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and other ailments, women should try to maintain an ideal body weight. If a woman can maintain a 5 to 10% weight loss over a year, their chances of contracting one of these illnesses greatly decreases.
What can women who worried about weight gain do to try to help themselves lose weight? Many diets are too restrictive, so changing your eating habits from bad to healthy may be a better way to lose weight. Simple things like eating three meals a day, eating at least eight vegetable or fruit servings a day, eat lean protein, give up sweets, exercise, and getting enough sleep can help you lose weight and feel better about yourself.
Ovarian and breast cancer are womens health issues that many women are concerned about. However, improved treatment and early detection helps improve the survival rate. If you are over the age of 40, you should have a mammogram each year to help detect breast cancer early on. If you notice any changes in your breasts, talk to your doctor immediately. It is probably nothing, but better to have it checked than ignored. If you have a history of breast cancer in your family, you can ask your doctor about hormone therapy to help reduce the chances of you getting breast cancer.
Ovarian cancer, always a womens health issue, is harder to detect in early stages than breast cancer. If you experience any change in urine output, bowl movements, indigestion, pelvic pain, painful intercourse, or feeling full, you should talk to your physician about it.
Pregnancy seems to be among the womens health issues, whether women are trying to get pregnant or trying to avoid it. Those who wish to avoid pregnancy will be happy to hear that there are now birth control pills with lower doses of estrogen and progestin, so not only are they very effective, but you only have four periods a year.
The most common causes of female infertility are ovarian issues or blocked fallopian tubes. If you are under 35, have been trying to conceive for a year, but have been unsuccessful, you should see your doctor for advice. Sometimes medical intervention can help you become pregnant.
There are so many other areas of womens health issues such as heart disease, mental health, osteoporosis, etc. If you have any questions about any problems – mental or physical – don't be afraid to contact your physician for advice.