A Beginner’s Guide to Women’s Healthcare

Women’s healthcare covers far more than reproductive health. It includes the conditions that affect women differently or more often, the preventive care recommended at each age and the everyday habits that support wellbeing. If you are starting to take a more active role in your own health, this overview shows how the pieces fit together.

Find a healthcare provider you trust

A regular provider who knows your history is the foundation of good care. Depending on where you live, this may be a primary care doctor, a nurse practitioner, a gynecologist or a combination. MedlinePlus notes that regular checkups can find problems early, when they are easier to treat, and can help prevent problems in the first place.

Understand your menstrual health

Your menstrual cycle is a useful indicator of general health. The Office on Women’s Health describes a typical cycle as about 28 days, with cycles between 24 and 38 days considered regular. Knowing your own pattern makes it easier to notice changes. Tell your provider about periods that are very heavy, very painful, irregular or absent.

Know the main areas of women’s health

Reproductive and sexual health

Contraception, planning for pregnancy, prenatal care, sexually transmitted infection testing and menopause all fall here. Raise questions openly; providers discuss these topics every day.

Breast and gynecologic health

Know what is normal for you, and report lumps, skin changes, unusual discharge or bleeding between periods or after menopause.

Heart health

Heart disease is often thought of as a men’s condition, yet the CDC states that it is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. Blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, smoking and weight all matter.

Bone health

Bone loss speeds up after menopause. Calcium, vitamin D and weight-bearing activity help protect bones throughout life.

Mental health

Depression and anxiety are common and treatable. Mood changes can also be linked to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, the period after childbirth and menopause.

Keep up with screening

Screening looks for conditions before symptoms appear. Depending on your age and risk, your provider may recommend:

• blood pressure checks;
• cervical cancer screening with a Pap test, an HPV test or both;
• mammograms;
• cholesterol and diabetes tests;
• colorectal cancer screening;
• bone density testing;
• tests for sexually transmitted infections.

Stay up to date with vaccines

Adults need vaccines too, such as a yearly flu shot and tetanus boosters. The HPV vaccine protects against the virus that causes most cervical cancers. Ask your provider which are due.

Build healthy routines

• Eat a varied diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit and whole grains.
• Be physically active most days.
• Sleep seven or more hours a night.
• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol.
• Manage stress and stay connected with others.

Women who could become pregnant are advised to get 400 micrograms of folic acid each day.

Useful items to keep at home

Practical supplies make self-care easier:

• menstrual products you find comfortable, such as Ultra-Thin Pads with Wings;
• a thermometer and a basic first aid kit;
• a blood pressure monitor if your doctor recommends home checks;
• a record of your cycle, medicines and medical history.

Prepare for appointments

Write down your questions, the date of your last period, your medicines and supplements, and any family history of conditions such as breast cancer, heart disease or osteoporosis. Be honest about symptoms and lifestyle; the information is confidential and helps your provider help you.

Know when to seek care promptly

Do not wait for a routine visit if you have:

• chest pain, shortness of breath, or pain in the jaw, neck or back;
• very heavy bleeding or bleeding after menopause;
• severe pelvic pain;
• a new breast lump;
• persistent low mood or thoughts of self-harm.

The bottom line

Women’s healthcare is a partnership between you and your providers, built on regular checkups, appropriate screening and daily habits. Start with one step, such as booking a checkup or tracking your cycle. Browse everyday essentials in our women’s health department.

Sources

1. MedlinePlus. Women’s Health.
2. MedlinePlus. Women’s Health Checkup.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Women and Heart Disease.
4. Office on Women's Health. Your menstrual cycle.