International Day of Action for Women's Health: Beware of these common health issues

Women are more prone to anxiety and depression due to multiple social, biological, and cultural variables. Addressing mental health is vital for general well-being. (Image: Canva)

International Day of Action for Women's Health: Women often ignore their health because of busy schedules or prioritising the health of others over their own needs, or lack of awareness, fear, social or cultural factors. In a well woman check, the gynaecologist includes not only health screening, STD testing, and cancer screening, but also discusses menstrual issues, planning pregnancy, contraception, and looks for signs of depression, substance abuse, domestic violence.

Here are common health issues, every woman must pay attention Suggested by Dr Astha Dayal, lead consultant - obstetrics & gynaecology, CK Birla hospital Gurugram.

Menstrual health

In younger age, women often ignore menstrual problems like heavy, painful or irregular cycles. All girls who have periods less than 20 or more than 40 days apart, or are heavy enough to cause anaemia, or painful enough to affect their quality of life, should consult a gynaecologist and get themselves evaluated.

Reproductive and sexual health

Regular pelvic exams, and annual STD testing and practising safe sex are important for maintaining sexual health. Pap smears, and HPV testing done every 3-5 years from the age of 25 are crucial for detecting cervical cancer and other reproductive health issues. Women should consult their gynaecologist before planning pregnancy or birth control options to avoid unplanned pregnancy. Women should also discuss options of egg or embryo freezing if they want to postpone conception.

Vaccinations

Rubella vaccination: All girls should receive the vaccine before planning pregnancy. They should avoid becoming pregnant until one month (28 days) after receiving the vaccine.

HPV vaccine: It is a vaccine against cervical cancer and warts. It is recommended for girls in the age group 11-15 years but can be taken later too if missed.

T dap vaccine: This is given to pregnant women in the third trimester to give immunity to both the mother and child against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough.

Influenza vaccination: Routine influenza vaccination is recommended annually for everyone, and it is given to pregnant women after the first trimester.

Breast health

Women should learn and do regular self-exams of the breast and of the armpit area, every 3 -6 monthly after periods after the age of 20. But most importantly mammography should be done after 40 years of age every 1-3 years depending on the risk factors.

Menopausal health

Women may start getting irregular cycles progressing to menopause between 45-55 years. If there are heavy, or more frequent cycles, hot flashes, mood issues, vaginal dryness, or other symptoms one must seek medical advice.

Heart health

Heart disease is a leading cause of death in women. Regular check-ups, a healthy diet, exercise, and managing risk factors like blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, alcohol, obesity and cholesterol are essential. It needs to be evaluated in preventive health checks with a TMT and an echocardiography along with regular blood work.

Bone health

Osteoporosis is more common in women, particularly post-menopause. Regular bone density tests after the age of 65 and a calcium-rich diet can help maintain bone health.  Regular Calcium and Vitamin D supplementation is required after menopause.

Mental health

Women are more prone to anxiety and depression due to multiple social, biological, and cultural variables. Addressing mental health is vital for general well-being. Seeking aid and support, discussing symptoms with a healthcare professional, and integrating mental health checks into routine health evaluations are critical steps for sustaining mental health.