Women’s healthcare addresses both physical and emotional well-being. Women have unique reproductive concerns, including menstrual irregularities, pregnancy, and menopause. They may also develop health conditions such as endometriosis or breast cancer. Treatment and prevention strategies vary widely depending on which issue you’re trying to address. A healthy lifestyle and regular medical checkups can help you stay on top of your health and catch health problems early, when they’re easier to treat.
The Female Anatomy: A Complete GuideMedically Reviewed by Kara Smythe, MD | October 11, 2024
FAQ
What are the most common women’s health issues?
Menstrual problems, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause are frequent reasons women need to see a healthcare provider. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, followed by cancer. Lifestyle changes can improve symptoms and reduce risk.
How can I find an ob-gyn?
Start by asking your primary care provider for suggestions. Your friends and family may also have great relationships with a doctor they’d recommend. Or you can search online for recommended providers in your area.
What are the signs of menopause?
The most frequent symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, less or more frequent bleeding, and sleep disturbances. The symptoms may start during perimenopause, which is the phase of life prior to menopause.
How often should women get screened for breast cancer?
Women ages 40 to 74 with average risk of breast cancer should get a mammogram every two years. Those with a family history of breast cancer may need to start screening at a younger age or do it more frequently, and they may require screening that uses magnetic resonance imaging (rather than standard mammography).
Can stress affect menstrual cycles?
Yes. When the body feels stress, it releases cortisol, a stress hormone, which can interfere with the estrogen and progesterone that control the menstrual cycle. This can lead to irregular periods, heavier or lighter blood flow, and increased pain.
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Simran Malhotra, MD, DipABLM, CHWC, is a triple board-certified physician in internal medicine, hospice and palliative care, and lifestyle medicine, as well as a certified health a...
Jewel Kling, MD, MPH, is the chair of the division of women's health internal medicine and the assistant director of the women's health center at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ari...
Justin Laube, MD, is a dual board-certified integrative and internal medicine physician, retreat leader, and healing educator with over 15 years of experience caring for patients w...
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Allie Buttarazzi, MD, is a double board-certified internal medicine and lifestyle medicine physician, Direct Primary Care cofounder, and certified health and well-being coach. Thro...
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Tara Collingwood, RDN, is a board-certified specialist in sports dietetics, an American College of Sports Medicine–certified personal trainer, and a media spokesperson. As a sports...
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John Paul McHugh, MD, is an obstetrician-gynecologist and lifestyle medicine specialist in southern California. He has always placed wellness at the center of his work, in both del...
Chung Yoon, MD, is a noninvasive cardiologist with a passion for diagnosis, prevention, intervention, and treatment of a wide range of heart and cardiovascular disorders. He enjoys...
Robyn Faye, MD, is a board-certified ob-gyn with more than 35 years of clinical experience. She is also a gynecologic dermatologist, a specialty requiring focused expertise in vulv...
Anna L. Goldman, MD, is a board-certified endocrinologist. She teaches first year medical students at Harvard Medical School and practices general endocrinology in Boston.
Leslie Becker-Phelps, PhD, is a licensed psychologist based in New Jersey who practices via telehealth in many other states. She has been on the medical staff at Robert Wood Johnso...
Amy Spizuoco, DO, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist. Dr. Spizuoco has been practicing medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, as well as dermatopatholo...
Reyna Franco, RDN, is a New York City–based dietitian-nutritionist, certified specialist in sports dietetics, and certified personal trainer. She is a diplomate of the American Col...
Kara Smythe, MD, has been working in sexual and reproductive health for over 10 years. Dr. Smythe is a board-certified fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecolog...
Michelle Seguin, MD, is a board-certified family medicine, lifestyle medicine, and certified functional medicine physician (IFMCP). She is a practicing physician at Root Functional...
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