Taking Charge: A Decade-by-Decade Guide to Women's Health
As a woman, you may feel unstoppable in your twenties, overwhelmed in your forties, and satisfied with all that you have achieved in your sixties. However, while striving to attain your personal goals, it's crucial to prioritize your health and well-being while staying mindful of the physical and hormonal transformations that occur throughout the journey. According to Ms.Medicine experts, here are some measures that can help you preserve your health and overall well-being as you advance through the different stages of life.
Knowing your family's medical history can provide valuable information about your risk for certain diseases. It's essential to have open discussions with your family members and record any pertinent information, updating it as needed. By sharing this information with your doctor, you can work together to identify any potential health issues early on. Early detection is key to protecting your health and preventing the development of serious conditions. Don't hesitate to discuss your concerns about common diseases with your doctor.
It's crucial to schedule your annual well-woman visit in order to receive personalized care that focuses on your overall health (including your reproductive health). This comprehensive exam provides an opportunity to discuss fertility concerns, family planning options, and to get screened for STIs. It's essential to be transparent with your doctor about any symptoms or worries you may have to ensure the best possible care. Recommended vaccines for women in their 20s may include the HPV vaccine, flu vaccine, and Tdap vaccine. However, as with most things in healthcare, vaccination recommendations are not one size fits all. There may be additional recommendations based on your health history and previous immunization history. As Dr. Lindsey Cassidy emphasizes, "Vaccines are an essential part of staying healthy, and the three-shot HPV vaccine series can lower your risk for several types of cancers as you age." By taking these preventative measures, you can take control of your health and maintain good health for years to come.
Dr. Amy Roberts advocates that maintaining healthy habits is essential as you age. Eating well and exercising regularly become a major priority as your metabolism slows down. Ensuring you are getting enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet is vital as they can protect against osteoporosis later in life. According to Dr. Roberts, bone mass peaks in your 20s and starts decreasing in your 30s so you should aim for a diet or supplements that provide 1,200 milligrams of calcium and 1,000 IUs of vitamin D daily to prevent issues later in life.
As you navigate through the excitement and busyness of life in your thirties, managing stress should be a top priority. Amidst juggling responsibilities such as work, children, and social engagements, it's essential to carve out some "me time" to unwind and relax. Prioritizing sleep and using sunscreen are great additions to your daily routine that will assist you in maintaining your current and future wellness. Additionally, it's necessary to pay attention to your mental well-being and seek medical advice if you experience any signs of anxiety or depression. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical well-being.
Schedule your first mammogram, as 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Do not delay this vital screening, as early detection is key. According to Dr. Laurie Birkholz, having a baseline mammogram at the age of 40 or a decade before the age your mother or sister was diagnosed with breast cancer is recommended, followed by annual mammograms.
Regular checkups are essential for maintaining optimal health. Dr. Birkholz emphasizes that even if you are not at high risk, getting regular checkups can ensure your physical well-being. Women need to be particularly careful in this regard as heart attacks and strokes are women’s leading cause of death. Your checkups should include diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol screenings. According to the American Diabetes Association, women should undergo diabetes screenings every three years starting at age 45, even if they have normal blood sugar levels. As you enter the perimenopause stage of mid-life, it's crucial to talk to your doctor about any symptoms.
According to Dr. Lisa Larkin, monitoring your heart health continues to be critical as you age. It is important to discuss your risks with your doctor and take the necessary measures to keep your heart healthy. These measures include controlling your diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and keeping your cholesterol and blood pressure levels in a healthy range. Dr. Larkin suggests that you may need to take a daily aspirin to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. However, she stresses that the aspirin protocol increases the chance of bleeding and may not be suitable for everyone. You should speak with your doctor to determine the best course of action based on your health history and other risk factors.
If you haven’t already had your first colonoscopy, now is the time to stop putting it off. According to the US Preventive Services Task Force, regular colorectal cancer screenings are recommended for individuals between the ages of 45 and 75. Typically, doctors suggest getting a colonoscopy every ten years, which involves using a camera to examine the large intestine and colon. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, your doctor may recommend starting screenings earlier and repeating them every five years after your first examination.
This is also the decade when many women experience menopause and, with it fluctuating hormones that can shake your well-being. Menopause can cause a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Some of the most common symptoms of menopause include irritability, hot flashes, night sweats, hair loss, emotional & cognitive changes, and disrupted sleep. Dr. Larkin stresses the importance of recognizing that menopause doesn't have to be suffered through and that there are treatment options to alleviate symptoms. Talk to your doctor about your specific symptoms and review the best treatment options to improve your quality of life.
As women enter their 60s, they still require many of the same screening procedures as younger women, but they also face new risks. One such risk is osteoporosis, which increases as women lose bone density after menopause. Additionally, individuals of average risk are advised to receive pneumococcal and other vaccines after turning 65. According to Dr. Jennifer Kostacos, getting vaccinated against pneumonia is crucial during this time since it is the leading cause of vaccine-preventable deaths in the United States, as reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is also recommended to receive the SHINGRIX vaccine to prevent painful shingles outbreaks.
As you age, it is important to keep up with regular health screenings and make changes to your healthcare routine. For instance, if you haven't had a bone density scan yet, it is recommended that your first one be at age 65 and then alternate years thereafter. Similarly, if your pap smears have been consistently healthy, you can stop them at age 65. However, it is important to continue with yearly mammograms and colonoscopies every five to ten years. Since the body's ability to process medication decreases with age, it is important to have your medications reviewed by your doctor. Additionally, make sure to inform your doctor if you experience forgetfulness or depression, as these could be signs of underlying health conditions. Dr. Kostacos advises against neglecting exercise. According to a recent study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, walking over 4,000 steps daily can enhance cognitive abilities in individuals aged 60 and above.
Annual flu shots are crucial since the number one cause of morbidity after age 75 is flu and flu-related complications. Working with your doctor to manage your supplements and medications is also important. The American Geriatrics Society suggests that patients above the age of 75 should be on fewer than nine medications, vitamins, and supplements. This can be a daunting task, especially for individuals with diabetes or COPD, who may have four to five medicines for the heart alone.
As you age, the functioning of your liver and kidneys may slow down, which can reduce your ability to metabolize and excrete drugs. This means you may require smaller or less frequent doses of your current medications. It's important to note that certain medications, such as those used for urinary incontinence, anxiety, or sleep, could cause confusion or increase the risk of falls. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding your medications and their potential side effects.
In this phase of your life, prioritize your cognitive health. To prevent significant memory loss or cognitive decline, it's important to remain physically, socially, and intellectually active. If you experience mental lapses that interfere with daily life, talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying medical issues. Poor nutrition, dehydration, infection, or chronic pain may cause memory issues that are often attributed to Alzheimer’s. A comprehensive examination can help to ensure that the symptoms are not caused by an easily treatable issue.
Schedule regular hearing and vision exams with your doctor. Early identification and intervention can significantly reduce the impact of sensory loss and improve your quality of life. By taking proactive measures to care for your senses, you can continue to stay engaged with the world around you and maintain your independence.
It's important to remember that this post serves as a basic guide and shouldn't be considered a comprehensive resource. Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor to discuss your unique health needs and develop a personalized care health plan. Ms.Medicine offers a variety of women's health services to address different health concerns at every stage of life. By prioritizing your physical health and seeking the guidance of medical professionals, you can take proactive measures to maintain your overall well-being.