Paying attention to common women’s health issues is crucial for any woman looking to maximize her health. However, what happens when certain women’s health issues are overlooked? Below, we’ll delve into six feminine health issues you should be aware of but might not know about — and how to identify these problems.
1. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Everyone gets tired from time to time. Whether you’re shrugging off your tiredness from putting in those extra hours at work or chalk your exhaustion up to being a mother, it’s simple to overlook fatigue. Sometimes a woman’s fatigue isn’t just caused by simple stress or a lack of relaxation. For some women, chronic fatigue syndrome seems to be at play instead. What is chronic fatigue syndrome, and how does it impact patients? Some of the most common symptoms of this disorder include exhaustion, headaches, unexplained pain and memory issues. If you’re experiencing long episodes of fatigue that don’t seem to go away on their own, contact your physician to learn more about this syndrome and your treatment options.
2. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a woman’s health issue that causes the tissue that should be on the uterus lining to grow on other organs. This causes menstrual cycle irregularities are various other complications. One of the reasons why endometriosis is so commonly overlooked by women is because they’re unaware that the pain caused by their menstrual cycle is irregular. Since tissue growing in abnormal locations leads to pain, discomfort is one of the most common symptoms of this health condition. However, some women mistake it for menstrual cramps. Other common signs of endometriosis to be aware of include difficulty getting pregnant, painful bowel movements, discomfort during sex and excessive bleeding during a menstrual cycle.
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome, also known as PCOS, affects 1 in 10 women around the world. Despite how common this health issue is, many women are unaware of the symptoms and signs that define PCOS. Like many other reproductive health disorders, PCOS impacts a woman’s hormonal levels. This condition provokes a group of symptoms, but it is mainly defined by the appearance of cysts on the ovaries, irregular periods, and higher levels of male hormones like androgen. However, not every woman with PCOS will know she has cysts on her ovaries or that she has hormonal disruptions. Women with PCOS may have regular periods, too. Other common signs to be on the lookout for include fatigue, difficulty conceiving, thinning hair, and acne.
4. Uterine Fibroids
Having an iron deficiency that provokes anemia may also be a telltale sign of uterine fibroids. They are known to cause heavy periods, so women who have irregular iron levels due to their menstrual cycle may have fibroids they weren’t previously aware of.
5. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Have you been experiencing prolonged stomach pain, cramping, and diarrhea that doesn’t seem to have a cause? If so, you may be experiencing irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS. IBS is more common in women and is often linked to more severe symptoms that men experience. For a woman unaware of IBS, she may have trouble identifying the cause of her gastrointestinal upsets and discomforts. Some of the most common symptoms of IBS include bloating, diarrhea, constipation, painful sex and more severe menstrual symptoms. Consider visiting a gastroenterologist to rule out any other stomach conditions.
6. Depression and Anxiety
Mental health awareness is on the rise. Unfortunately, millions of women still struggle with identifying when they should seek help when grappling with challenging thoughts and feelings. It’s not uncommon for women to experience mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression when reaching early adulthood. It’s also common for new mothers and women going through menopause, too. Why? Hormones play a crucial role in mood regulation, and alterations in hormonal levels can lead to significant changes in a woman’s mental state. While your feelings may indicate depression or anxiety, other less commonly known signs of a mental disorder include restlessness, appetite changes, insomnia and low energy levels.
Awareness Is the Key to a Healthy Life
Did you know about all the health conditions that made it on our list? If not, you’re not alone. Many women want to maximize their sense of everyday health and well-being. However, they may not know much about the conditions and illnesses they should actively try to prevent. Fortunately, one of the best ways to deal with common health issues and their symptoms is through awareness. If you understand prospective health issues, you’re in a better position to treat them. If you suspect you have any of the complications mentioned above, do more research. Then, be sure to connect with a health care professional who can get you the treatment you deserve.