WOMENS HEALTH

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 Introduction

Health and wellness are major concerns especially among women of today who lead a more stressful and demanding lives compared in the past. Studies show that certain conditions are far more prevalent among females, Furthermore, a woman's symptomatic and medication-related reactions are different from men.

Being informed and knowledgeable Of one's health is major way of regaining control of one's life. The Women's Health articles play an advocacy for women to proactively learn about their health and health related issues. Health care pro­fessionals must be empowered with adequate information through research and continuous education.

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PUBERTY TO 18 YEARS

Puberty and adolescence. These stages would include physical development which involves breasts, menstrual periods, pubic hair, facial hair. These are certainly the most visible signs of impending adulthood but emotional development also occur, they are beginning to separate from Mom and Dad, beginning to become more independent. Adoles­cents start to think more abstractly and rationally. All of these are influenced by the production of female hormones in the body.

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18 TO 40 YEARS

Most often referred to as the repro­ductive years because sexual matu­rity is achieved and most pregnan­cies occur during this stage. During this period it is best to be more health conscious not only to prepare the body for pregnancy and child birth but also to increase resistance against diseases and infections associated with old age. It is also best to have different tests such as Mammograms. Pap smears and Chlamydia and Tests for Oilier Sexually Trans­mitted Diseases because conditions associated with these tests are more prevalent during these ages.

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40 TO 60 YEARS

During these ages, women experience the cessation of their menstruation, or most commonly known as the "Menopause". It is a transition between two times of life for women It is not a disease or an illness. Many women experience a variety of symptoms as a result of the hormonal changes associated with the tran­sition through menopause. (women often also lose bono density around the time of menopause, and their cholesterol profile may worsen, increasing their risk of heart disease.

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60 YEARS AND ABOVE

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All women ages 60 and older should have a physical exam yearly due to chances of ill health heightened at this stage. Sometimes staying ^; healthy involves taking medication which may include Hormone Re placement Therapy because this replaces the estrogen their body is no longer making after menopause. A well-balanced diet is a key to health. Poor nutrition increases the risk of vitamin deficiency and related problems. The changes that aging brings are a natural part of life. Take note of the changes in the body Have routine screening tests especially Mammography and Osteoporosis test.