Why women’s health is so important
Good health should be every woman’s main priority. But many put their own needs to the side and place their family’s health ahead of their own. Leading busy lives, and juggling work and family, many women don’t take the time needed to stay on top of their health and well-being.
Read on to find out why you should put your own health first and find out how a good family doctor can help:
Main women’s health issues to be aware of
There is no doubt that women are leading busier lives than ever before. This means they tend to let their own health and well-being slip down their ladder of priorities.
This means now, more than ever, the nation needs to start prioritising women’s health.
Because by staying on top of women’s health and making positive changes, women are investing in their future.
And when it comes to women’s health, there are several health issues that are specific to women alone. We’ve outlined some of the main ones that may require a trip to see a family doctor.
Breast cancer
Breast cancer does not discriminate. As any family doctor will tell you it can develop at any age. Being the most common cancer in Australian women, if symptoms develop, you should immediately book in the see your local family doctor.
Some of the most common risk factors are:
- Increasing age
- Family history
- A previous breast cancer diagnosis
- A past history of certain non-cancerous breast conditions
- Lifestyle factors such as being overweight, not getting enough exercise and drinking alcohol.
If the below symptoms occur, reach out to your nearest family medical practice:
- New lumps or lumpiness in the breast or under the arm
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast
- Nipple sores such as crusting, ulcer, redness, or inversion
- Nipple discharge that occurs without squeezing
- Skin of the breast dimpling
- Rash or red swollen breasts
- Unusual pain that won’t go away
Ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the ovary or fallopian tube grow in an uncontrolled way. Some of the symptoms and risk factors to discuss with your family doctor include:
- Abnormal bloating
- Indigestion
- Fatigue
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Back, abdominal, or pelvic pain
Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix grow in an uncontrolled way.
Common symptoms and risk factors you may experience include:
- Vaginal bleeding between periods
- Menstrual bleeding that is longer or heavier than usual
- Bleeding after intercourse
- Excessive tiredness
If these symptoms persist, you need to see your family doctor.
Would you like to see a family doctor to discuss women’s health further?
Make an appointment at Junction Road Family Practice. Close to major hospitals, specialist centres, and x-ray rooms, they are conveniently located close to public transport, offering ample car parking. Find a list of their services online. Or call (07) 38 57 2799 to arrange an appointment today. And find out more about the importance of women’s health.