Every year during National Women’s Health Week we are given the opportunity to raise awareness of preventable health problems, the importance of regular medical screenings, and why your health should be your priority. Invest in your health today and every day with these tips and fast facts.

Lose the stress

Women are more likely to develop depression and anxiety. Feeling emotional, nervous, having trouble sleeping or eating can all be normal reactions to stress. But too much stress can lead to serious health problems.

• Take care of yourself by eating healthy, exercising, and getting plenty of sleep.
• Share how you are feeling with family, friends, or a counselor.
• Take a break and recognize when you need more help.

Plan a well-woman visit

It's important to talk to your doctor about regular health screenings. A pap smear can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early. You should get tested every three to five years depending on your age.

Our experts recommend visiting your ob-gyn or midwife at least once a year for a well-woman visit. This checkup helps you stay healthy and prevent health problems at all stages of life. Cervical cancer screening is an important part of that.

Get and stay active

Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Healthy, active women have more energy, are less stressed and experience lower levels of anxiety.

We recommend getting at least 150 minutes of exercise a week. That's just 30 minutes a day! If you already have a set routine, switch it up with a mix of aerobics, muscles training, and stretching.

Eat healthy

It's easy to slip into an unhealthy eating routine. Check your eating habits and make sure you're getting the daily recommended amount of nutrients and balancing calories.

National Women's Health Week is the perfect time to adjust your diet. You should be enjoying a variety of healthful foods from all of the food groups.

Don’t skip your screenings

Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt.

At VCU Health we provide a full range of screening and diagnostic breast imaging services. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, visit: https://bit.ly/3yfex2A 

Take your symptoms seriously

Experiencing a bit of bladder leakage when you sneeze or laugh can occur at any age. Consider seeing a pelvic health specialist if you’re having one or more of these symptoms. For more information, visit us at https://bit.ly/3MUY8o0 

• Leaking during normal activities.
• Frequent need to use the bathroom.
• Blood in your urine.
• Pain in your pelvic area during intercourse, urination or bowel movements.

With all of life's challenges, and often prioritizing others before ourselves, it is important to remember that your health comes first. Every day is a new opportunity to make your health a priority.