Did you know more than 23 percent of women experience some type of pelvic pain or disorder in their lifetime? For some, they are undergoing symptoms regularly. What many do not realize is they do not have to fight through the pain. In fact, in many situations, the pain can be reduced, or even eliminated! It is important to know different ways to be a healthier woman, common pelvic issues, and how a specialist in women’s health in Parker will help.

Women’s Health Basics

As a woman ages, it is important to know health basics and make changes to live a healthier lifestyle. Even if certain things were done when they were younger, it is never too late to make changes for the better. Why? Women have a higher risk for certain issues including stress, depression and/or anxiety, heart attacks, osteoporosis, STDs, and much more. In addition, women also deal with pelvic issues.

When it comes to the ideal picture of health, each person is different. What is healthy for you may not be for someone else, which is why it is important to see your primary care physician for annual health examinations.

Ways to Improve Health

There are several steps a woman can take to make her healthier. It is important to focus on health to feel better and be more productive.
 

• Hydrate: Studies say you should at least get 64 ounces of water in per day. The more you can drink though, the better. When a woman isn’t dehydrated, a slew of issues can arise, making it difficult to be productive. These can include headaches, dry mouth, fatigue, and more. Make sure you stay hydrated throughout the day instead of all at once. If you plan to work out, make sure you drink plenty of water before then directly after.
• Exercise: Today—we are a nation busier than ever. As we stay busy in our day-to-day with work and activities, many forget or avoid exercise. Nearly half of all adults do not get the amount of exercise they need. While some should exercise for weight loss, it also helps to promote a healthy lifestyle. If you aren’t sure what you like, find something you look forward to in these workout routines and ideas.
• Curb Bad Eating Habits: When you eat healthier, you will feel better. But your body will also function better, too. Food helps fuel the body to keep you going throughout the day. If you rely on bars, energy drinks, and other artificial supplements, you may be causing yourself more harm. Make sure you fill up on green vegetables, which will help increase the nutrients in your body. For meals, make sure half of your plate includes veggies. You can research ways to dress them up and add flavor, all while giving your body what it needs. Also, don’t be afraid of fats. Healthy fats such as avocados, olive oil, nuts, and more.

By improving your lifestyle, you will notice a large difference in the way you look and feel. Your skin may clear up, digestion issues alleviated, experience weight loss and more. For women that are post-menopausal, there is an increased risk of osteoporosis and other heart or stroke issues. Speak with your physician to come up with an ideal plan that works for you.

Common Issues

As a woman, you are more at-risk for certain issues than men. These include:
 

• Heart disease: Based on Go Red’s heart disease statistics at a glance, one in three women are killed each year due to a heart attack. In fact, they say around 44 million are affected in some way by cardiovascular disease. Some women have small heart attacks without even realizing it. It is important to practice good health habits now to avoid issues down the road.
• Hypothyroidism: It is more likely for a woman to be diagnosed with hypothyroidism than men. Hypothyroidism is common for those over the age of 50, particularly women. This disorder happens when the body is unable to make the proper number of hormones that keep one’s metabolism at a healthy rate.
• Endometriosis: More than six million women suffer from endometriosis, which is when tissue that lines around a woman’s uterus is on the outside. It can be in other areas, not just on the uterus, which can be painful. In addition to pain, a woman may also experience irregular bleeding or spotting, digestion problems, and infertility.

Problems in the Pelvic Area

Women often experience issues in their pelvic floor region that can cause such a mix of painful and uncomfortable symptoms. These symptoms are not just tied to one area in the pelvic region. Pelvic floor issues can also cause lower back pain, as well.

Common pelvic problems a woman may experience are:
 

• Incontinence: Unable to control going to the bathroom
• Pelvic inflammatory disease: When the pelvic area becomes inflamed
• Irritable bowel syndrome: Frequent abdominal pain and issues with bowel movements
• Abdominal pain: A variety of pains that are located anywhere in the abdominal area
• Separation of muscles in the pelvic area
• Hernias: An organ or tissue that goes through tissue, causing pain

Using Physical Therapy

When it comes to pelvic issues, did you know a physical therapist can help? Through a series of exercises, the area can be strengthened. When the muscles in this area are damaged or weak, it leads to all of the issues mentioned above, and more. It can be especially helpful for women who have children, allowing them to use techniques to strengthen the region. Each situation is different but as you explore Parker women’s health, what you need to know about pelvic physical therapy can make such a difference in your life.

As you work to improve your health and pelvic issues, Peak Physical Therapy and Wellness will help. Our team of experts can help you develop a healthy lifestyle and strengthen your pelvic region in a customized plan. This will help you live pain-free from lower back issues, abdominal pain, painful intercourse, and much more. Find the location nearest you and contact Peak PT & Wellness today.