The Importance of Prevention, Care and Well-Being Among Women

Women’s health is particularly important because women have a higher risk of developing certain health conditions that can be easily treated. Many women are likely to put off receiving regular, preventive care where those health conditions can be detected and treated appropriately.

Prioritize Preventive Health

Shelby Lane, a certified nurse midwife at ProMedica Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology in Sylvania, explains that women often prioritize other things before their health. “Women are busy balancing work, family, children and other household tasks that they deem more important than their own health and well-being.”

Annual Exams

To better improve health, an annual well-woman exam is recommended. At a well-woman exam, a full checkup, focused on preventive care, is performed. “These visits consist of a breast exam, pelvic exam and Pap smear, if you are due for one,” explains Lane. “We will also take vital signs, listen to the heart and lungs, check the thyroid gland and address any health complaints a woman might have.”

Receiving these exams on an annual basis helps to catch any health problems early, including breast and cervical cancers. The earlier a health problem is recognized and treated, the easier it is to treat, leading to better outcomes. Lane also recommends that women see their primary care physicians for a yearly physical examination. She also recommends women receive yearly mammograms starting at age 40 and routine colonoscopy screenings beginning at age 45.

Healthy Lifestyle

Aside from routine medical examinations, women can also prioritize their health through diet, exercise and emotional well-being.

It is recommended that women exercise for 30 minutes a day, five times a week. This can include a mix of aerobic exercises and strength training, like brisk walking and weightlifting. Find physical activities that you enjoy and are of your ability help to maintain regular exercise.

Women should eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. “Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D is recommended for bone health,” says Lane. “Be sure to limit alcohol intake to four drinks per week.”

Mental Health

Taking time to prioritize mental health includes getting adequate sleep and practicing mindfulness and self-care. For many women, prioritizing mental health also includes care from a therapist or counselor. If you feel down or depressed, reach out to your health care provider. There is no shame in asking for help when needed.

Shelby Lane, CNM
Shelby is a certified nurse midwife at ProMedica Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology - Sylvania. View her profile.