International Women’s Day

Be Bold for Change!

The theme for International women’s day 2017 is “Be Bold for Change”. To celebrate, Webdoctor has compiled healthy habits for women of all ages.

Make your change your health.

Everyone knows that early detection saves lives so establish a habit of monitoring your health and follow our healthy habits to make the most of your life.

Healthy Habits

Feel the burn

Even if you are working in an office environment there is no excuse! We have a workout just for you. Regular exercise is imperative in helping to prevent obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and in turn, heart disease in women of all ages. Staying active can also lead to other healthy habits, so it’s a win-win. If exercise does not come natural to you, why not try building up to it slowly with something like the couch to 5K programme which can be done at your pace.

Eat Well

A woman’s metabolism starts to slow down with age so it’s important to improve eating habits. Maintaining a food journal is often a good idea while swapping carbs and sugary snacks for vegetables and low GI foods will instantly boost your health. We have just the advice to help you beat the sweets!

No Smoking

It is no secret that smoking negatively affects your health. People who smoke are more likely to suffer a stroke. Smoking can adversely affect fertility and can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth during pregnancy. Additionally, smoking can result in the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, potentially reducing the blood supply to the heart. It also causes a breakdown in the skin’s collagen which will make you look older than you actually are. If you are a smoker, quit now.

Safe Sex

The incidence of STIs such as gonorrhea or chlamydia among young people is on the rise and although easily treatable (with antibiotics), can lead to serious health concerns if not detected. Women at every age should always insist on a condom and carry their own supply to prevent the infections mentioned above, along with other diseases such as HIV, syphilis and herpes. It is recommended to get an STD screening every year that you are sexually active with more than one partner. You can get an STI kit sent discreetly to your home that is carried out at your discretion, so there is no excuse for not knowing your status.

Dr Mooney’s advice

“Always practice safe sex by using a barrier method such as a condom for any sexual activity to minimise the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. If you notice any symptoms affecting urination or causing unusual discharge or pain lower down in the Pelvis, then always get medical advice preferably in a face to face consultation. The sooner a cause is found, the sooner you will relax!”

Alcohol in moderation

Drinking more than the recommended weekly guidelines can increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer and other medical problems. Binge drinking can lead to mental health problems, high blood pressure, liver disease and permanent damage to the brain.

Cervical Check

Whether you’re 25 or 65, women are encouraged to visit their GP regularly for a smear test, the best way to detect changes in the cells of the cervix. The National Cervical Screening Programme (CervicalCheck) provides free smear tests to women aged 25 to 60. A free smear test can be obtained with any nurse or doctor registered with CervicalCheck.