Women’s health issues are complex and varied, affecting physical, emotional, and mental well-being. From reproductive health issues like infertility and abnormal bleeding to chronic health issues like cancer and heart disease, women of all ages face a variety of health concerns that require specialized care.
At Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, in Grand Island and Hastings, Nebraska, we’ve been taking care of women’s health for more than three decades. Our team understands the many health issues women face and want to share with you some of the most common concerns that you need to know about.
1. Heart disease
Many women consider heart disease a men’s health issue. But heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death for women in the United States. After going through menopause, women are at greater risk of developing health concerns such as high blood pressure, that lead to coronary artery disease.
2. Breast cancer
Yes, breast cancer is a health issue women need to know about. It’s the second most common cancer in women, following skin cancer. We recommend regular self-breast exams and mammograms to find breast cancer during the early stages when it’s easier to treat.
3. Other gynecological cancers
Breast cancer is a major concern because it affects so many women, but it’s not the only type of cancer you should know about. Your regular Pap smears screen for cervical cancer, which used to be the leading cause of cancer death in women before today’s regular screening recommendations arose.
Women also should be aware of ovarian and endometrial cancers.
4. Gynecological health
Your reproductive organs dictate your life stages and play a significant role in your physical and emotional well-being. Heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and irregular menstrual cycles are common symptoms often caused by gynecological health issues like endometriosis, fibroids, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
These are common health issues that affect millions of women and often go undiagnosed for years.
5. Maternal health
Pregnancy is a life-changing event for women, and it’s one many enter into without really knowing what to expect. From morning sickness to anemia to hemorrhoids, pregnancy is a roller coaster ride of symptoms that affect your physical and emotional well-being.
Women need early and frequent prenatal care so they can thrive every step of the way.
6. Menopause
Menopause is a normal physiological process marked by the end of your period and fertility. And it’s not something that happens all at once. Even months or years before your period stops, you may experience some of the symptoms women associate with menopause — hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes.
We start talking about menopause during your annual well-woman exams well before you enter this stage of life so you’re fully prepared and can reach out for help when you need it.
7. Depression and anxiety
Women are more likely to experience mental health issues like depression and anxiety than men. Though changes in how you think and feel may occur at any time, women are especially vulnerable during and after pregnancy due to the fluctuation in hormones (perinatal and postpartum depression), as well as in the years leading up to menopause.
8. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a serious bone disease that makes your bones weak and more susceptible to fractures. It occurs when the breakdown of your bones outpaces the rebuilding. Estrogen helps support bone-building, and when you reach menopause and your estrogen levels drop, bone-building declines rapidly.
Because women’s bones are naturally thinner than men’s, you’re at greater risk of developing osteoporosis.
10. Autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune diseases occur when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body, causing inflammation and health problems. Women are more likely to have autoimmune disorders than men, causing symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and fevers without a known cause.
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