Women’s health: How you can live a healthier life at any age, starting now

It’s no secret that when women are healthy, families and communities thrive. But from menstruation to menopause, women face many distinct — and sometimes complex — health events that require care, understanding and partnership from a health care provider.

This year, make your health a priority by leaning into preventive care and taking action to live your healthiest life now. Scroll down to find some ideas based on your age and stage of life, and remember: No matter where you are in your health journey, we are here to help.

Forties

If you’re at average risk for developing breast cancer, age 40 is the time you’ll start scheduling your annual mammogram. Forty is also a time of transition toward menopause. Your doctor will talk with you about perimenopause symptoms and what to expect as you begin this new stage of life.

At 45, you should also start screening for colorectal cancer. In 2021, amid rising rates of colon cancer in younger adults, a U.S. task force lowered the screening age for colorectal cancer from 50 to 45. When caught in its early stages, this disease can be treated more easily.
 

Fifities

On average, menopause occurs at age 51. Symptoms of menopause may include hot flashes, night sweats, heart palpitations, brain fog, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness and mood changes. This is because your levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone fluctuate. Your ob/gyn might start talking to you about hormone replacement therapy as well as non-hormonal treatment options. Whichever is right for you, make sure you find a provider who acknowledges the impact the symptoms can have on your life and can talk to you about potential treatment options, their benefits and their risks.
 

Sixties and Beyond

Your sixties are the time you want to talk to your doctor about your bone health. Schedule a bone density scan and make sure you’re getting enough calcium and vitamin D, and doing enough weight-bearing exercises.

Pelvic organ prolapse — when the uterus, bowel, bladder or the top of the vagina drops or bulges into the vagina — is a condition that affects 1 in 3 women in their sixties and half of women in their eighties. Prolapse can cause discomfort and incontinence, and though it's not dangerous to your health, there are treatment options — pelvic floor therapy or surgery — that can minimize symptoms and allow you to enjoy a better quality of life.

Need help finding a provider who can guide you or a loved one through these health changes? Find a primary care provider or ob/gyn today.