The earlier you get help, the easier to overcome your problems and see better long-term outcomes.
For all women:
- Tend to your mental health. Go see a therapist, particularly if you’ve been feeling particularly down, anxious, or stressed. Particularly given the hormonal fluctuations inherent to being a woman, mental illness can
- Test for diabetes, which is rapidly becoming a huge epidemic, and make the necessary dietary changes to lower your risk.
- Test and monitor for high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Taking care of your blood vessels decreases your risk for heart disease and stroke, and improved circulation is a huge positive for overall health.
- Monitor your body. If it feels “off”, consult with a physician. Pay attention to everything from changes in your skin through breast self-examination.
- Monitor your breasts. Discuss getting a mammogram and/or BRCA gene testing with your doctor. About 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime; early interception can make all the difference.
- Watch your weight and stay active.
- Monitor your sleep. Sleep affects your physical, mental, and emotional health. Take inventory of your sleep situation and sleep hygiene. Invest in a CPAP machine if advised by a physician.
- Get your flu shot every year.
- Get a pap smear every 3 years to prevent cervical cancer.
For women aged 50 and older:
- Get a colonoscopy to prevent colorectal cancer.
For women aged 65 and older:
- Get tested for osteoporosis. Get a DEXA scan and discuss supplement and exercise options with your doctor.