Health is often about more than simply the physical and this is especially true for women. Our wellbeing – mental and emotional as well as social – is every bit as important as being physically well for all of us. And crucially, all those elements are essential too for women’s sexual and reproductive health.
Here are 7 ways for a woman to take control of her body and improve her wellbeing in every way.
1. Know your body: Examine and explore every single part of your own body so if there are any unexpected or unexplained changes, you spot them right away and, when necessary, consult a doctor.
2. Maintain good personal hygiene: This a basic but important message. Washing your private parts regularly is essential to stop any bacterial or urinary infections. When you are menstruating, it’s even more important to wash properly and thoroughly and to change sanitary ware regularly.
3. Take charge of your own reproduction: Prevent unwanted pregnancy by using contraception such as the pill or intra-uterine devices such as the coil. Find the contraception that suits both your physical needs and your lifestyle – some women find it a bind to take an oral contraceptive daily and so look for more long-term contraception such as an implant. When you are in control of your own reproduction, you can decide when is the right time for you to have a child.
4. Always practice safe sex: Always use a condom to prevent the spread of sexually-transmitted infections such as chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhoea, herpes, HIV, hepatitis and HPV. Using a condom will also help prevent unwanted pregnancies and this form of protection has a higher success rate than other forms of contraception such as the pill.
5. Go for regular smear tests: In the UK, women between 25 and 64 undergo a cervical screening to test for abnormal cells in the cervix that can lead to cervical cancer. Those aged 25-49 are invited for testing every three years with older women invited every five years. Regular screening can protect you against cervical cancer.
6. Go for regular breast screening: Women over the age of 50 are routinely screened via a mammogram to test for breast cancer. The screening programme works as an early warning system for the disease. All women, regardless of their age, should examine their own breasts regularly and if you feel anything different or unusual, please consult with your GP immediately.
7. Enjoy your sex life: An active, healthy sex life is one of life’s joys so don’t be embarrassed by your physical desire. It’s perfectly natural and it’s supposed to be fun!
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