Each year in mid-May, National Women’s Health Week (May 11–17) serves as an essential reminder for women to take charge of their physical and mental health. From preventive screenings to managing chronic conditions, this observance encourages women to advocate for themselves and make their health a top priority.
In a fast-paced world where many women juggle caregiving, careers, and households, personal health can often take a backseat. Dr. Angela Debo, DO, a family medicine physician at Bayhealth, emphasizes that this must change. “Women are natural caregivers, but they often neglect their own well-being. National Women’s Health Week is about giving yourself permission to focus on your health,” she says.
Breaking the Silence: Normalizing Women’s Health Conversations
Addressing Taboo Topics
Unfortunately, many aspects of women’s health, including menstruation, menopause, fertility, and sexual health, remain stigmatized. This societal taboo creates barriers that prevent open dialogue and timely medical care. Dr. Debo encourages women to shed the shame and embrace honest conversations with their healthcare providers.
“No subject is embarrassing when it comes to health,” Dr. Debo says. “Building a relationship with your doctor that is based on trust and professionalism allows for meaningful care.”
Understanding Your Body
Women should feel empowered to understand their menstrual health, recognize abnormal symptoms like excessive pain or bleeding, and talk openly about birth control options, fertility planning, and prenatal support. Monitoring changes in reproductive health is not only empowering—it’s essential for early intervention.
Preventive Health Screenings: The Cornerstone of Long-Term Wellness
Why Annual Exams Matter
Dr. Debo strongly encourages women of all ages to schedule annual physical exams and establish care with a trusted primary care physician. These appointments provide the foundation for tracking health, managing chronic illnesses, and catching warning signs early.
Essential Screenings by Age Group
Here are the key preventive screenings every woman should prioritize:
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Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap Test): Starting at age 21, repeat every 3–5 years depending on test results.
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Mammograms: Beginning at age 40, annually or as advised by your doctor.
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Colonoscopies: Starting at age 45, especially important for colon cancer prevention.
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Bone Density Tests: Recommended at age 65 to monitor osteoporosis risk.
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Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, and Diabetes Checks: Regular screenings starting in early adulthood, particularly for those with risk factors.
These tests play a crucial role in identifying potential health threats before they become severe.
Mental Health: Equally Important as Physical Wellness
Addressing Anxiety and Depression
Women are statistically more likely than men to experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Despite this, mental health is often overlooked or dismissed. Dr. Debo encourages women to seek support without stigma.
“Mental health impacts physical health and vice versa,” she explains. “Taking care of your mind is an essential part of overall well-being.”
Emotional Support During Pregnancy and Postpartum
Mental health support during pregnancy and the postpartum period is especially vital. Dr. Debo highlights the importance of screenings for postpartum depression and encourages new mothers to reach out for help when needed.
Chronic Conditions and Lifestyle: Staying Ahead of Health Risks
Understanding Gender-Specific Symptoms
Did you know that heart disease—the leading cause of death for women—often presents differently in women than in men? Rather than crushing chest pain, women may experience fatigue, nausea, or shortness of breath. This makes routine check-ups and cardiac screenings even more important.
Preventing Osteoporosis and More
Dr. Debo also emphasizes the importance of staying active, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol. Lifestyle habits can significantly reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.
Healthcare Access and Equity: Breaking Down Barriers
Tackling Disparities in Women’s Health
For many women—especially women of color—healthcare disparities remain a major challenge. From lack of access to specialists to systemic bias in medical care, the road to equitable health is still under construction.
Dr. Debo advocates for greater diversity in medicine, improved parental leave policies, and expanding STEM opportunities for girls and young women to help close these gaps in the future.
“Patients often feel more at ease when their provider shares their cultural background or life experience. Representation matters in medicine,” she says.
Taking Ownership: A Call to Action for Every Woman
Empowerment Through Advocacy
Women are their own best health advocates. Dr. Debo encourages every woman to:
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Schedule preventive screenings
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Speak up during medical appointments
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Find a doctor they trust
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Ask questions and demand answers
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is National Women’s Health Week?
National Women’s Health Week is an annual observance from May 11–17 that encourages women to focus on their personal health and wellness through education, preventive screenings, and lifestyle changes.
What health screenings should women get regularly?
Women should regularly get Pap smears (from age 21), mammograms (from age 40), colonoscopies (from age 45), and bone density tests (from age 65). Regular check-ups for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes are also important.
Why are mental health issues more common in women?
Hormonal changes, societal pressures, and gender-based trauma can contribute to a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression in women. Open discussions and mental health care are vital.
How can women access better healthcare?
Women can advocate for themselves, seek culturally competent providers, push for better policies, and support diversity in the medical field. Telehealth services are also improving access in underserved areas.
What can I do during National Women’s Health Week?
You can schedule a check-up, talk to your doctor about any symptoms, educate yourself about preventive care, and encourage other women in your life to do the same.
