Most women experience some sort of health problems within their lifetime, as there are a number of common concerns that can occur at different stages in life. While a urinary tract infection is something women of all ages can get easily, menopause is reserved for women over 40. Each health concern experienced should be monitored by a doctor immediately. There are six common health problems that many women face.
Urinary Tract Infection
A urinary tract infection, otherwise known as a UTI, is an extremely common occurrence. Bacteria affects the bladder, which can cause pain and discomfort in the body. Some of the typical symptoms include a feeling of burning while urinating, feeling an intense urge to use the restroom, and having cloudy or dark urine. The infection can spread to the kidneys if left untreated, so it is important to have it checked right away. Knowing what to do if you have a UTI isn’t complicated: you should immediately consult with your doctor so they can have your urine tested. Antibiotics will then be prescribed to help clear the infection and return the urinary tract to normal.
Endometriosis
Tissue is meant to line the uterus. When this tissue begins to form outside of the area it is meant to be, it causes intense pain. This can result in painful intercourse, heavy or irregular menstruation, constant constipation, nausea, and severe pain in the back, lower abdomen, and pelvic area. As soon as girls are old enough to menstruate, they can develop this disease, although it typically occurs in the 30s and 40s. It can lead to infertility and should be diagnosed as early as possible for the best treatment plan.
Breast Cancer
The answer to who gets breast cancer is extremely vast. The disease can plague women of any age, although it typically develops later in life. Only one percent of women are diagnosed in their 20s, although it is usually much faster growing in the young women that do develop the cancer. Seventy-seven percent of women with breast cancer are diagnosed once they have reached their 50s. Those with a family history of it are much more likely to have it develop.
HPV
The Human Papillomavirus, which is known primarily as HPV, is spread by sexual contact. It is one of the most common infections spread between men and women who are sexually active. There are vaccines available for this type of virus since it is so easily spread. The main problem with HPV is that some people never experience any symptoms, so they spread it without realizing. Others develop warts. HPV can lead to cervical cancer, so it is vital that anyone with the disease consults their doctor immediately.
Menopause
Menopause can start as early as 30, but it typically does not happen until women have reached their 40s or 50s. It marks the end of the menstrual cycle, and therefore, fertility. Hot flashes and increased sweating are two of the most common indicators of menopause, along with a limited sex drive, painful intercourse, headaches, mood swings, and trouble sleeping. Women going through this stage of life can speak with their doctors about prescription medications to stop the hot flashes, or other pain medications to help with the typical pain and headaches that are associated.
Ovarian Cysts
Cysts can develop on the ovaries easily, as it is a common development during regular menstruation. Some women experience no symptoms, while others will have irregular menstrual cycles, severe cramping, and pain during intercourse. The hormonal IUD is one cause of ovarian cysts. Failure of insertion can particularly lead to the problem. Hormone therapy or surgical removal may be required to eliminate the cysts and stop the symptoms.
With a number of common health concerns that women can face, it is important that each woman receives routine medical care. Seeing a doctor regularly for checkups will help to catch these health problems before they have the chance to develop and worsen. It is highly important for women to also seek medical attention as soon as any irregular symptoms are noticed within the body, as they could indicate one of these health concerns.