6 Common Women’s Health Issues In 2020
Certain health issues are exclusive to women or impact women differently to men. At Northern Districts Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic, we are committed to providing quality women’s health care and offer a range of effective treatment approaches. In this post, we discuss the most common women’s health issues.
Breast Cancer
According to Australian Government estimates, 19,974 cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2020. Of those cases, 19,807 (99.16%) will be women. Breast cancer originates in the lining of the milk ducts and can spread to other organs. Surgery is a common treatment associated with breast cancer. Post-surgery recovery and rehabilitation with a physiotherapist may be required to ensure the patient can move comfortably and get back to their usual activities sooner.
Ovarian and Cervical Cancer
Ovarian and cervical cancer are both complex conditions that cause similar pain. Ovarian cancer originates in the fallopian tubes, while cervical cancer starts in the lower uterus. In Australia, the risk of being diagnosed with cervical cancer by age 85 is 1 in 162. Comparatively, the risk of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer by age 85 is 1 in 85.
Gynaecological Health
Women’s gynecological health must be regularly checked and assessed by healthcare professionals. Painful and severe symptoms during menstruation can indicate an underlying medical condition. Additionally, sexually transmitted diseases can cause conditions such as kidney failure or infertility if left untreated.
Pre and Post-Natal Healthcare
Pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and depression can cause pregnancy complications if not properly managed. Obstetricians and GPs can support a woman through pregnancy and ensure the health of the pregnant woman and her baby are supported. Pre-natal care and post-natal recovery are often supported by a physiotherapist who can assist with pelvic strengthening or conditions and incontinence.
Autoimmune Disease
Approximately 1 in 20 Australians has an autoimmune disease. Nearly 80% of these cases are women. It is unknown why autoimmune diseases disproportionately impact women. Autoimmune disease can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. They include Graves’ Disease, Vasculitis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, and Fibromyalgia.
There are over 80 identified autoimmune diseases and some can be life-threatening. Treatment of autoimmune disease often includes the support of a multi-disciplinary healthcare team which typically involves a physiotherapist to assist with mobility and pain management.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis affects 25% of Australian women over the age of 75. It weakens bones, meaning they can break more easily. This is why people with osteoporosis often experience trauma and breaks even during mild falls. Physiotherapy can help people with osteoporosis to strengthen their muscles to support the core, spine, hips, and wrists.
If you are seeking specialised physiotherapy treatment for women, contact Northern Districts Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic in West Ryde, Sydney. Call (02) 9874 8410 now or book online.
