Women’s Health Week
5-11 September
"It’s all about you’’ – that is the new message for this year’s Women’s Health Week organised by Jean Hailes for Women’s Health.
“It may seem absurd, but women need reminding that it’s okay to put themselves first.
So often they put the needs of family, friends, even their pets, above their own,” says Women’s Health Week & Community Engagement Manager Renea Camilleri.
“These seven days will be a perfect opportunity to prioritise their own health.”
Day 1 - Check me out
The 2022 Jean Hailes National Women’s Health Survey revealed that these important appointments have taken a backseat.
One in five women have missed a health check with their GP, and cancer screenings have also been impacted
Nearly one in three women have not visited their dentist in the past 12 months because of the pandemic.
‘Overdue for a health check?
Health checks fell off the radar for many of us these past two years. We chat to Jean Hailes GP Dr Amanda Newman about why it’s so important to put them back on your ‘to do’ list.’
Are your checks up to date? If you’re unsure what tests you should have and how often, click here for a printable pdf with all the Health Checks for Women.
Day 3 - Pelvic power
Did you know that urinary incontinence is more common than you think? Though many think it’s just a part of growing older, when in fact, it doesn’t have to be the case.
‘The risk of urinary incontinence does rise after menopause. This is due to a drop in the hormone oestrogen, which can impact bladder control.’
For more info click here.
I recently wrote a blog about ‘Your pelvic floor’ and one about ‘Incontinence, is it a normal part of aging?’ if you would like more info.
Day 4 - Mental health
From anxiety, and brain fog to sleeping when stressed.
There are great resources to be here.
Day 5 - Move & improve
Learn why physical activity has great health benefits for your body and your brain.
Also a great article about ‘Is walking enough?’ We often think if we are not sweating it out at a gym, it doesn’t count as a workout.
“Walking can help lower stress, improve mood and benefit us socially. ”
Another great article was ‘Moving in the right direction’ which ‘talked’ about incidental exercise, which is a great way of adding movement into your day.
I recently wrote a blog on how you can ‘Sneak movement/exercise during your day. To read about it, click here.
There you have it. A fascinating week of topics wouldn’t you say?
One thing that stood out for me this week was that we as women put everybody else’s needs before ours. It spoke loudly that we need to take better care of ourselves by relooking at each of the days that shared and to see what we are lacking and what we can do about it. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup!
Your turn, what are you going to look at adding to your life? A checkup?