Women's Health Awareness On National Women's Health And Fitness Day

Disclaimer: Please note that this article refers to “women” as any person who identifies as one. Some topics within the article will focus on biological features unique to those assigned females at birth (AFAB) who may or may not identify as women. A few issues specific to transgender and non-binary women-aligned individuals may also be mentioned.  

National Women’s Health and Fitness Day takes place on the last Wednesday of September each year. In 2024, the day will take place on September 25th. The day is organized by the Health Information Resource Center (HIRC). The HIRC is a national clearinghouse of consumer health information created in 2002 to bring awareness to the importance of fitness and women’s healthcare. The center has founded other days, including the Family Health & Fitness Day USA and the National Health Information Awards event.

Common women’s health concerns

Women's health is important to think about not only for those who have an illness, but for those wanting to maintain their current health and wellness. Similarly, better health can be important for women of any age. There are several conditions that women and those assigned females at birth may consider on Women’s Health And Fitness Day. Setting appointments for frequent checkups with your primary care physician and educating yourself on women’s health statistics are two ways to practice risk prevention. 

Cancer 

There are a few types of cancers that occur in those with a gynecological system and breast tissue, including the following: 

• Breast cancer

• Endometrial cancer

• Cervical cancer

• Uterine cancer

• Ovarian cancer

• Vaginal and vulvar cancer

• Fallopian cancer 

Certain cancers have screening tests that you can take to ensure your health and monitor risk factors. One of those tests is a pap smear, a screening test for cervical cancer involving the vagina insertion of a swab and a group of cervical tissue through a speculum. The Office On Women’s Health recommends getting a pap test every few years if you are 21 to 65 and have a cervix. Your pap test might involve an HPV test as well, which is a group of cells on the cervix using a soft brush. 

To screen for breast cancer, you may be referred by your primary care doctor to an imaging laboratory where you might complete a mammogram scan. A mammogram is a screening test available in hospitals and medical centers where you stand in front of an X-ray machine and place your breast tissue on a metal plate. The X-ray machine will then be pressed against your breast and take photos of the inner structure. There may be minor pressure or pain. Afterward, your doctor will let you know if there are any early signs of breast cancer. 

If you are concerned about cancer risk, please get in touch with your doctor for further testing and guidance. 

Heart disease

Over 44% of U.S. women have some type of heart disease, and it's the top cause of death among women in the country. However, only about half of women are aware of this heart disease risk, making it an important topic to raise awareness about.

Healthy life choices can help reduce heart disease risk. For example, heart disease is associated with smoking cigarettes, eating an unhealthy diet, being physically inactive, drinking large amounts of alcohol, and experiencing depression or stress. However, you don’t have to focus only on calories burned or avoiding processed foods to safeguard your heart. You can also guard your health by drinking lots of water, spending time with loved ones for social wellness, working with a personal trainer, staying active, avoiding sleep deprivation, and caring for your mental health. 

Heart disease often causes pain in the chest, neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen, or back. Women may have other symptoms of heart disease, too, like nausea, vomiting, and tiredness. Sometimes symptoms present in the form of heart palpitations, shortness of breath, or swelling in the lower body. Anyone who thinks they may be experiencing heart disease symptoms should call 9-1-1.

Mental health of women and girls

Some mental health conditions may be more common in women and girls than in men. Additionally, specific symptoms of mental health conditions may impact women differently than others. The National Institute of Mental Health states that depression and anxiety are more common in women. However, additional sources show that there may be a reduction in the diagnosis of mental health conditions in men due to stigmas against receiving mental healthcare. 

Current statistics show that one in five women in the US is diagnosed with a mental health condition. In certain conditions, such as bipolar disorder, symptoms may appear differently in women than in other genders. For example, men may have more irritability, anger, or substance use symptoms than women. Additionally, women may face stereotypes and biases in the diagnosis process. 

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

Gynecological health

Outside of cancer risk, those with a gynecological reproductive system may experience other health conditions and partake in routine reproductive health examinations and testing to ensure health. For example, individuals with a vagina can contract sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that may appear differently than in those without. 

Routine STI testing can be beneficial in ensuring health. The CDC recommends that all sexually active individuals get tested at least once for HIV and yearly for gonorrhea and chlamydia. If you have been exposed to someone who may have HIV, go to an urgent care clinic or healthcare clinic like Planned Parenthood to take a dose of Prep, a medication that may prevent the contraction of the condition if taken after exposure. If you are pregnant, get tested for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. 

Women may also see a gynecologist for a checkup once a year. Other conditions that may impact them can include: 

• Ovarian cysts 

• Vaginal cysts 

• Endometriosis

• Painful or heavy periods

• Infertility

• Menopause

Some individuals with a gynecological system may not have ovaries, fallopian tubes, a uterus, a cervix, or a vagina due to surgery or past health risks. In these cases, speak to your gynecologist about how to care for your unique condition. If you have a constructed vagina due to a gender-affirming surgery or health issue, consult your gynecologist to care for your anatomy and ask if there are any health risks unique to your body. 

Pregnancy  

Many pregnant women may experience risk factors associated with pregnancy and contraception. If you are pregnant, speak to an obstetrician and gynecologist about your birth plan, symptoms, and health during pregnancy. You may choose to take prenatal vitamins, reduce exercise, or take precautions depending on your pregnancy risk. 

Health.gov also suggests pregnant people eat healthy foods, stay active in a way that is safe, and not smoke or drink alcohol. The World Health Organization suggests getting tested for anemia, as 40% of pregnant individuals are at risk. 

For those who are hoping not to get pregnant or would like to utilize contraception, talk to your primary care doctor about a method that works for you. Note that some forms of contraception may have side effects, and some may be more invasive or require insertion in the body. There are many forms of birth control, so discuss the options before deciding. 

Some women may not be able to get pregnant due to infertility, assigned sex at birth, anatomy, weight, or health concerns. In these cases, meet with a gynecologist to discuss your options. 

Abortion

Please also note that as of June 2022, abortion is federally unprotected within the United States upon the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Planned Parenthood offers a live map of the states that are currently defending abortion and the states where it is illegal within the US. Discuss your pregnancy options with your primary care physician if you experience an unwanted pregnancy. 

How to celebrate National Women’s Health and Fitness Day: Beyond nutrition and exercise

There are a few ways you might celebrate Women’s Health And Fitness Day this year and throughout the coming years, including the following. 

Get a wellness checkup 

Celebrate Women’s Health Week by getting a mental and physical health checkup. A regular checkup with your primary care physician may be beneficial every six months or one year. Your doctor can discuss your risk for certain conditions, help you gain or lose weight, and discuss your healthcare goals. If you are at a higher risk for cancer or another physical health condition, you may meet with your doctor more often than once a year. 

Post your support

To support this day, post your support online. Mention Women’s Health And Fitness Day and post what it means to you to support women’s healthcare. You can also celebrate National Women’s Health Week from May 8th to 14th each year and use the hashtag #NWHW in any repost. 

Partake in exercise activities

As National Women’s Health And Fitness Day focuses both on the health and fitness goals of women, you might practice healthy activity by exercising. The CDC notes that a commitment to regular physical activity can “improve brain health, manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities.” Additionally, studies state that exercising can improve your mental health.

Exercise programs are available at gyms, community health centers, and online. However, formal programs aren't the only way to get exercise. Taking walks, gardening, dancing around the house, or moving in whatever ways feel good to you are all helpful. If you're out of the habit of exercising, getting in physical activity with friends may make it more fun and easier to stick with. The goal of exercise isn't to follow a strict regimen, but for women to enjoy moving their bodies, so they want to do it consistently. While exercising, consider using your favorite reusable water bottle to drink plenty of water and hydrate your body. 

Practice self-care

Practicing self-care can be done in many ways. A few self-care practices you can try include the following: 

• Journaling

• Spending time in nature

• Reflecting on your future

• Mindfulness and meditation 

• Coloring in an adult coloring book 

• Drinking tea or coffee 

• Eating a healthy meal

• Getting eight hours of sleep per night

• Connecting with the people you love

• Spending time with pets

• Taking a bath with soak

• Taking a solo trip 

• Spending time with your children 

• Discussing women’s health risks with consumer health information professionals

• Meeting with a therapist

• Visiting fitness centers, health clubs, or senior centers for activities to promote women’s health and wellness 

Partake in activism 

Some women enjoy partaking in activism as a part of their womanhood. If you feel similarly, you might benefit from donating to or volunteering for a women-led movement in your area to observe National Women’s Health And Fitness Day. One such movement could be the Women’s Health Movement, which promotes fitness and physical health. You may find groups and organizations dedicated to women minorities, specific communities, or women’s careers, music, and lives. 

Health and fitness for transgender women 

Trans healthcare can be an essential topic in the United States. For women looking for resources based on transgender identity and struggles, you may find support from the following organizations: 

• The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ youth ages 13-24) 

• GLAAD Transgender FAQ

• Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860 

• Trans Women of Color Collective (TWOCC)

• HealthyTrans healthcare guide  

• Gender-Confirming Surgeons List

• Trans Family Building With Family Equality

Additionally, talk to your doctor about your specific health needs depending on your anatomy, personal history, and health risks. For example, a transgender woman on hormone therapy may have different health risks than those not on hormones. The Vanderbilt University Medical Center suggests further advice about using hormones safely and health risks specific to trans individuals. Talk to a doctor before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment.  

Reach out to a therapist for wellness support

Many women experience mental health conditions, stress, and concerning mental health symptoms. A therapist can be a rewarding, compassionate, and understanding support for women, couples, and girls who seek tips for mental wellness and healthy lifestyle changes. 

Suppose you struggle to find a counselor in your area or aren’t sure about the cost of in-person treatment. In that case, you can also consider online therapy, which allows individuals the option of a lower monthly cost and the possibility of phone, video, and live chat sessions with a licensed therapist. Furthermore, one study on internet-based counseling found that 71% of participants found it more effective and preferable to traditional in-person methods and experienced symptom relief throughout and after the study. 

You may find therapists for women through platforms like BetterHelp, which offer the option to choose the gender of your therapist, specify if you want to speak to a therapist of color or LGBTQ+ therapist, and choose a time slot that works best for you.