Learn some of the unique health challenges that women face.
We are all unique and different from each other, even regarding health. Women face different health concerns during their lives than men. These health concerns can be complex and impact a woman’s everyday life. It is crucial for everyone to have health knowledge and education. Read on to learn seven facts that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) wants you to know about women’s health.
Fact 1: Women Who Are Caregivers Are at Greater Risk For Poor Physical And Mental Health
Women are more likely to take on caregiver roles throughout their life such as giving care to a child or elderly family member. There are many stressors of being a caregiver. It is essential for caregivers to manage stress in a good way and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, healthy eating, good sleep habits, and avoiding alcohol are basic guidelines for maintaining health and reducing stress. When struggling with stress, know that it is okay to reach out for help from a therapist or support group.
Fact 2: Women with Disabilities Need The Same General Health Care As Women Without Disabilities
Having a disability does not mean that a person cannot be healthy. Many women with disabilities do not get regular health screenings such as mammograms and pap tests. People with disabilities frequently experience mental health distress. This is linked with poor health behaviors, mental disorders, and chronic disease.
Fact 3: Good Menstrual Hygiene Is Vital to Gynecologic Health, Mental Health, Social Connections, And Career Performance
There are many women around the world that do not have access to menstrual hygiene products and struggle to maintain good menstrual hygiene which can cause shame, embarrassment, and health complications. It is important to advocate for readily available menstrual products for all women.
Fact 4: Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Affects More Than 10 Million American Women Each Year
Heavy menstrual bleeding should not be written off as a women’s issue that they just have to live with. Oftentimes heavy menstrual bleeding can be a sign of health conditions and should not be ignored.
Fact 5: Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Infections Are Very Common
Millions of people experience sexually transmitted diseases or infections. Sometimes there are no signs or symptoms. If sexually transmitted diseases or infections are ignored, they can lead to more harmful health conditions.
Fact 6: There Are Many Negative Health Outcomes Associated with Intimate Partner Violence
Intimate partner violence includes behaviors such as physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, and psychological aggression. It can range from one episode of violence that could have lasting impacts to more constant and severe episodes over multiple years. There are negative health outcomes that are linked with intimate partner violence that can affect the entire body.
Fact 7: Women Should Discuss All Medications with Their Health Care Providers and Only Use Medications As Directed
Drug overdose deaths continue to be a major concern and are lowering life expectancy in the United States. All people should have open communication about the medications and drugs that they take. If you have concerns, reach out to your healthcare provider for resources to help.
Resources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, March 22). Seven facts to know about women’s health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved December 29, 2022