Women’s health was thrust into the spotlight by the Australian government in March this year via the National Women’s Health Summit.

It detailed the findings of the #EndGenderBias survey which revealed two-thirds of 2800 surveyed women experienced gender bias or discrimination in the health system.

The discrimination related to not being taken seriously or having their feelings dismissed or disbelieved.

It also found that sexual reproductive health and chronic pain were the most common topics when women experienced gender bias.

Critically, both are among the biggest issues women face in their ongoing health maintenance.

AHA Clinics will host a free forum “Women’s Health and Wellbeing” on Tuesday, October 22 at its Seaford Meadows Day & Night Clinic from 6-8pm.

We take women’s health very seriously and aim to raise awareness around six key aspects of their health that women need to consider.

Here is a closer look at those issues and how you can address them to give yourself the best chance of living a long, happy and healthy life.

Cervical screenings

Women aged between 25-74 who have been sexually active should have a Cervical Screening Test every five years.

The government-subsidised test detects HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection.

It replaced the Pap smear test which simply looked for abnormal cells in the cervix.

Treatments following a positive test result generally involve the removal of warts with a special wire loop (LEEP), cryosurgery (freezing) or electrocautery (burning off with an electrical current).

These methods are very successful at preventing cervical cancer which takes 10-15 years to develop from ongoing infection.

A free HPV vaccine is offered to girls and boys aged 12-13.

It is offered to boys because the HPV virus can trigger anal and genital warts, as well as some cancers.

Smoking raises a woman’s risk of developing cervical cancer as does having many sexual partners and being sexually active at a young age (under 18).

Contraception

Australia offers a wide range of contraceptive options for women.

These include:

  • Contraceptive pill (combined and progestogen only pill)
  • Implants
  • Injections
  • IUDs (intrauterine devices)
  • Barrier methods (external and internal condoms, diaphragms)
  • Vaginal rings

The copper IUD or emergency “morning after” pill can both be used to guard against pregnancy after having unprotected sex.

The emergency pill should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

Tubal ligation is a longer term option.

This procedure can sometimes be reversed but should not be considered unless a permanent solution is desired.

It is important to talk with your GP about which method or methods are most suitable for you, while most importantly considering your lifestyle and circumstances.

Consider how different contraceptive methods may impact your health as well as any potential side effects or interactions with other medications you take.

Iron Infusions

Many women suffer iron deficiency due to menstruation and their dietary habits.

Fatigue and weakness are the most common symptoms of iron deficiency.

Changes to your diet are the best way to address this by incorporating iron-rich foods.

These include red meat, poultry, fish, beans and legumes (kidney beans, lentils and chickpeas) and leafy greens such as spinach.

Absorption may be enhanced by consuming foods rich in vitamin C alongside iron sources.

If oral supplements are inadequate, iron infusions may be considered.

These are available at many Australian clinics and hospitals.

Continue to monitor your iron levels through regular bloods tests, especially if you experience iron deficiency symptoms or have risk factors such as heavy menstrual bleeding.

Vitamins and supplements

Talk with your GP about your potential need for a tailored regime of vitamin supplements.

Calcium, omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin D, especially important in winter, are the most common needs for women.

Obtaining nutrients from a varied and balanced diet should always be the primary source of vitamins and minerals.

Avoid overusing supplements and always stick to recommended doses.

Be aware of how different stages of life such as pregnancy or menopause may alter your supplement needs and discuss them with your GP.

Wellbeing care

Schedule regular check-ups with your GP to monitor your overall health and wellbeing.

Pay attention to your mental health and consider stress-reducing activities such as mindfulness, meditation and regular physical activity.

Regular exercise, a good sleep routine (7-9 hours per night) and a healthy diet are all key planks of everyone’s overall wellbeing.

Australia’s national guidelines recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week.

Embrace preventative health by keeping up to date with regular screenings and talk to your GP about recommended vaccinations.

Physiotherapy and chiropractic

Musculoskeletal issues are one of the chief causes of chronic pain in women, often due to pregnancy or postural changes.

These may be alleviated with physiotherapy or chiropractic care.

Maintain exercises and recommended treatments to prevent injuries and improve physical function.

Be proactive about addressing pain or discomfort early because untreated musculoskeletal issues can lead to more significant problems over time.

Book an appointment

Women face a multitude of health challenges throughout their life.

It is vitally important to remain aware of these challenges as well as the preventative measures and treatments available.

Regular check-ups with your GP are the best way to do this.

Even when young, fit and healthy, you should visit your GP at least annually.

More regular visits may be warranted later in life as well as during pregnancy and at menopause.

At AHA Clinics, our doctors are particularly adept and well versed in women’s health needs.

Attending AHA’s first free information event “Women’s Health and Wellbeing” is another great way to improve your education and awareness about women’s health and the options at your disposal.

The event runs from 6-8pm on Tuesday, October 22 at AHA’s Seaford Meadows Day & Night Clinic, 2/20 Prow Drive, Seaford Meadows.

Parking will be available on site.

In the meantime, you can book an appointment here today at either our Seaford Road Day and Night Clinic or our Seaford Meadows Day and Night Clinic.