National Women’s Health Week, observed every year from May 11–17, is a powerful reminder for women to prioritize their own well-being. It focuses on raising awareness about critical health issues specific to women, encouraging preventive care, and empowering women to make their health a priority.
Angela Debo, DO, a respected family medicine physician at Bayhealth, emphasizes a recurring trend—many women place the health needs of family, partners, and others ahead of their own. This observance aims to reverse that pattern by urging women to advocate for their mental and physical health across all stages of life.
Breaking the Silence on Women’s Health Issues
Tackling Taboos Around Menstruation, Menopause & Sexual Health
Despite society’s growing openness, many women’s health topics remain shrouded in silence. Menstruation, menopause, and sexual health are often seen as taboo, leading women to ignore symptoms or avoid seeking help.
Dr. Debo stresses the importance of removing the stigma. “No subject is too embarrassing,” she affirms. “Healthcare providers must create a space where women feel safe discussing sensitive issues.” Whether it’s irregular periods, painful intercourse, or hormonal fluctuations, open dialogue is the key to effective care.
Understanding Reproductive and Hormonal Health
Menstrual Health and Fertility Tracking
Monitoring menstrual health is essential. Regular cycles are often a sign of overall wellness, while missed periods, excessive bleeding, or extreme pain may signal underlying issues such as PCOS, fibroids, or endometriosis.
Women should feel empowered to:
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Track their cycles
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Report abnormal symptoms
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Understand the options for contraception and fertility planning
Prenatal and Postpartum Care
Pregnancy requires vigilant care—from early prenatal visits to postnatal mental health support. Dr. Debo highlights the need for regular check-ups and support systems during the perinatal period. Postpartum depression, for example, affects 1 in 7 women, yet many suffer in silence due to stigma or lack of access.
Prioritizing Preventive Screenings
Routine screenings are one of the most effective ways to prevent disease and detect health conditions early. Dr. Debo strongly encourages women to have an annual physical and maintain a relationship with a trusted primary care provider.
Essential Screenings by Age
Here’s a breakdown of recommended screenings for women at average risk:
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Cervical Cancer: Pap smears starting at age 21
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Breast Cancer: Mammograms beginning at age 40
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Colorectal Cancer: Colonoscopy screenings starting at age 45
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Osteoporosis: Bone density testing at age 65
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Mental Health: Ongoing evaluations as needed, regardless of age
These screenings are crucial not just for disease prevention but also for peace of mind.
Mental Health and Chronic Disease Management
Addressing Anxiety, Depression & Emotional Wellness
Women are statistically more prone to anxiety and depression, yet emotional wellness is often overlooked. Mental health directly affects physical health—conditions like stress and depression can contribute to heart disease, obesity, and immune dysfunction.
Dr. Debo advises women to:
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Seek counseling or therapy when needed
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Lean on support systems
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Communicate openly with healthcare providers
Chronic Illnesses That Affect Women Differently
Heart disease, often considered a “man’s disease,” is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S. However, symptoms like fatigue, jaw pain, or nausea are often mistaken for other issues in women. Similarly, autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis disproportionately affect women and require long-term management.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction—is essential to prevent or manage these conditions.
Combating Healthcare Disparities and Barriers
The Role of Equity in Women’s Health
Access to quality healthcare is still a significant challenge for many women, particularly women of color, low-income women, and those in rural areas. Dr. Debo advocates for:
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Greater diversity in the healthcare workforce
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More women in STEM and medical fields
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Culturally competent care from providers
“Patients feel more at ease when treated by someone who understands their background and life experience,” she says.
Policy Improvements Needed
Dr. Debo also calls for changes at the systemic level, including:
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Paid parental leave
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Expanded Medicaid access
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Affordable mental health services
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Better education around sexual and reproductive health
These reforms are vital for building a healthcare system that supports women throughout their lives.
Taking Charge: Empowerment Through Self-Advocacy
The foundation of good health is self-advocacy. Women are encouraged to:
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Schedule routine check-ups and screenings
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Keep a personal health record
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Ask questions and push for second opinions when necessary
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Find a provider they trust and feel comfortable with
“Your health is worth it,” says Dr. Debo. By becoming proactive participants in their healthcare journeys, women can live longer, healthier, and more empowered lives.
FAQs:
Q1: What is the purpose of National Women’s Health Week?
A: It aims to raise awareness about women’s unique health issues and encourage proactive steps toward better physical and mental wellness.
Q2: What are the most important health screenings for women?
A: Key screenings include Pap smears, mammograms, colonoscopies, bone density tests, and mental health evaluations.
Q3: Why is women’s mental health a priority?
A: Women are more prone to depression and anxiety, which are closely linked to physical health. Addressing mental health can improve overall well-being.
Q4: How can I start prioritizing my health?
A: Begin with a yearly physical, build a relationship with a trusted doctor, and don’t ignore symptoms or hesitate to ask questions.
Q5: What can be done to improve access to healthcare for women?
A: Advocating for better policies, diverse healthcare professionals, and education can help close the gap in healthcare access for women.
