Women have unique health concerns compared to men. They will also have changes in their health care needs throughout life. 

Dr. Eve Tucker, a gynecologist and associate medical director at BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, shares what women need to know about their health through the years. 

What are some of the top concerns for women’s health? 

During the reproductive years, family planning and contraception are important issues for most women.  Menstrual conditions such as irregular or heavy bleeding are also very common. Screening for cervical cancer beginning at age 21, breast cancer at age 40* and osteoporosis in the post-menopausal years is also important throughout a woman’s lifespan. 

How often should women see their doctor? 

Women can benefit from having an annual well-woman visit to include a physical examination usually beginning at 21 years of age. Specific screening tests can then be recommended based on age and risk factors.  

This is why having a trusted doctor who knows you can be important. 

Are there any myths about women’s health? 

The average age of menopause in the United States is 51 – 52 years. As women approach menopause, symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats and changes in menstrual cycles may need to be addressed. The management of menopause can be complex. It should be individualized for each woman based on her symptoms, medical history, risk factors and personal preferences.  

There are many sources of misinformation regarding the management of menopause.  

“There is no need to seek a ‘hormone specialist’ or have extensive blood or saliva testing for the diagnosis or treatment of this condition,” Dr. Tucker says.   

She recommends the North American Menopause Society* for reliable information. Talk to your doctor about your own symptoms or concerns.  

Another common misconception is that women need to clean with specific products that are regularly advertised for “feminine hygiene.”

“It is important to avoid concentrated soaps and chemicals that are in scented products, as these can cause itching and irritation,” she says.  

Do women need a primary care provider (PCP) and a gynecologist? 

The need for both a primary care provider and a gynecologist depends on a woman’s individual health conditions. In addition, some gynecologists are more comfortable than others with addressing nongynecologic issues.

“When I was in private practice, if I had a patient who was otherwise healthy and I felt comfortable taking care of her basic primary care needs, it was not uncommon for me to be her primary provider until she reached an age at which other conditions such as hypertension and heart disease were prevalent,” Tucker says. 

Any other advice to share? 

First, having a doctor that you trust is important — particularly when it comes to more intimate health concerns.  

“If you are uncomfortable broaching a sensitive subject with your doctor, it may help to write a short list of topics on a piece of paper in preparation for your visit,” Tucker says.

Second, as telehealth medicine is becoming more popular, it is important to make an appointment in person if you have a condition that continues to recur or isn’t improving.  

*These links lead to third-party websites. Those organizations are solely responsible for the contents and privacy policies on their sites.