Common Health Problems in Women Above 35
Women above 35 often experience a transition phase that includes physiological, hormonal, and lifestyle-related changes. Timely awareness, screening, and management are essential.
🩺 1. Hormonal Imbalance & Perimenopause
Symptoms:
- Irregular periods, mood swings, hot flashes
- Sleep disturbances, fatigue, anxiety
Causes:
- Natural decline in estrogen and progesterone
- Transition to menopause (usually starts around 40-50)
Care Tips:
- Regular gynecological visits
- Hormonal testing, lifestyle changes, yoga/meditation
- In some cases, hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
❤️ 2. Cardiovascular Diseases (Heart Problems)
Risks Increase After 35 Due To:
- High blood pressure, high cholesterol
- Diabetes, sedentary lifestyle, stress
Symptoms (Often Atypical in Women):
- Shortness of breath, jaw/shoulder pain, fatigue, dizziness
Care Tips:
- Annual heart check-ups
- Low-salt, low-fat diet; regular exercise
- Avoid smoking/alcohol, manage stress
🦴 3. Osteoporosis & Bone Weakness
Causes:
- Decrease in bone density due to lower estrogen levels
- Sedentary lifestyle, low calcium intake
Warning Signs:
- Back pain, height loss, fractures from minor falls
Care Tips:
- Calcium and Vitamin D supplementation
- Weight-bearing exercises, DEXA scan for bone density
🍳 4. Thyroid Disorders
Common in Women Over 35:
- Hypothyroidism (fatigue, weight gain, hair loss)
- Hyperthyroidism (palpitations, weight loss, anxiety)
Diagnosis:
- TSH, T3, T4 blood tests
Care Tips:
- Regular screening, lifelong medication if needed
- Monitor for mood and metabolic symptoms
👶 5. Fertility Challenges & High-Risk Pregnancy
Risks Over 35:
- Lower egg quality and quantity
- Higher chances of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia
Care Tips:
- Pre-pregnancy counseling and prenatal care
- Consider fertility evaluation if trying to conceive
🎗️ 6. Cancer Risks Increase
Common Types:
- Breast Cancer
- Cervical Cancer
- Ovarian and Endometrial Cancer
Care Tips:
- Annual mammography after 40 (earlier if family history)
- Pap smear and HPV test every 3 years
- Self-breast exams monthly
⚖️ 7. Weight Gain and Metabolic Syndrome
Changes Due To:
- Slowed metabolism, hormonal imbalance, poor sleep
Risks:
- Diabetes, PCOS, fatty liver, hypertension
Care Tips:
- Balanced diet, portion control, regular workouts
- Blood sugar and lipid profile check-ups
🧠 8. Mental Health & Mood Disorders
Common Problems:
- Anxiety, depression, irritability
- Sleep disorders, loneliness, work-life imbalance
Care Tips:
- Open conversation, mental health counseling
- Adequate sleep, hobbies, support systems
👩⚕️ Preventive Screenings for Women 35+
| Screening Test | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Blood pressure check | Every year |
| Blood sugar test | Every 1-3 years |
| Lipid profile | Every 5 years |
| Pap smear + HPV test | Every 3-5 years |
| Mammogram | Starting at 40 |
| Thyroid function | Every 1-2 years |
| DEXA (Bone density) | Around menopause |
🌿 General Wellness Tips for Women Over 35
- Stay physically active (at least 30 mins daily)
- Eat a fiber-rich, nutrient-dense diet
- Limit caffeine, sugar, alcohol
- Regular health check-ups
- Cultivate hobbies and maintain social bonds