As we age, our bodies go through a lot of changes. Some are more noticeable than others, like our skin and hair loss luster. While these external changes are certainly frustrating, they pale compared to the internal changes our bodies experience as we age. Here are eight women’s health changes that you should look out for as you age.
1. Menopause
Menopause is one of the most notable changes that women go through as they age. It marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and can cause many physical and emotional symptoms. The most common menopausal symptom is hot flashes, which can accompany night sweats, sleep disruptions, and mood swings.
Other common menopause symptoms include vaginal dryness, urinary incontinence, and reduced sex drive. These symptoms can also be treated with medication or lifestyle changes. Menopause usually occurs around the age of 51 but can happen earlier or later, depending on a woman’s personal health history.
2. Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the transition period leading up to menopause. It usually begins in a woman’s 40s and can last for several years. During perimenopause, a woman’s ovaries produce less estrogen, which can cause irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep disruptions, and mood swings.
Many women mistake perimenopausal symptoms for menopausal symptoms because they are so similar. However, it’s important to remember that a woman is still technically able to get pregnant during perimenopause.
3. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle. It’s most common in women over 50 and can lead to fractures, even from minor injuries. Osteoporosis is caused by decreased bone density, which can result from hormonal changes, inadequate calcium intake, or a sedentary lifestyle.
Getting a bone density test is important if you’re concerned about osteoporosis. This test uses X-rays to measure the density of your bones and can help determine if you’re at risk for osteoporosis.
4. Breast Changes
As we age, our breasts naturally begin to sag and lose shape. This is due to a decrease in collagen and elastin, proteins that help keep skin firm. Additionally, the fatty tissue in our breasts begins to shrink, causing them to become smaller.
While these changes are normal, they can be frustrating for many women. You can do a few things to minimize breast sagging, like wearing a supportive bra and avoiding smoking.
5. Heart Disease
Cardiovascular disease is one of the most common causes of death in women over 50. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking are all related to heart illness. If you have any risk factors, you should discuss them with your doctor to reduce your danger.
You can do a few things to lower your risk of heart disease, even if you have one or more risk factors. These include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking.
6. Urinary Incontinence
Many women experience urinary incontinence, which is the involuntary leakage of urine, especially after menopause. The most common type of urinary incontinence is stress incontinence, which occurs when the muscles that support the bladder become weak.
This can happen as a result of pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause. To manage urinary incontinence, there are a few things you can do. These include pelvic floor exercises, wearing absorbent pads or underwear, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
7. Vaginal Changes
As we age, the tissues in our vagina naturally begin to thin and atrophy. This can cause a decrease in vaginal lubrication, which can lead to discomfort during sex. Additionally, the loss of elasticity in the vagina can cause it to feel less tight. You can curb these changes by utilizing vaginal lubricants, doing pelvic floor exercises, and avoiding douching or using scented products on your vagina.
8. Risk for Certain Types of Cancer
Another health change to be aware of as you age is an increased risk for certain types of cancer. This includes breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer. While many factors can contribute to your risk for cancer, aging is one of the most important. To lower the risks of these types of cancer, you can get screened regularly, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly.
Conclusion
As you age, it’s important to be aware of the changes in your body. There are various health changes to look out for, from perimenopause to an increased risk for cancer. However, by being aware of these changes and taking steps to prevent them, you can stay healthy and happy as you age.
