Q: Should I use birth control and which is the best one?
Marla Ahlgrimm: That is a deeply personal question that depends your needs and physical health. There is no one birth control that is most desirable for all women. Talk to your healthcare provider before making the decision. He or she will discuss with you your parenting desires, possible side effects, your overall health, comfort taking medication or using birth control devices, and sexual activity. Birth control methods include pills and patches, intrauterine devices, injections, and abstinence.
Q: Is depression common in women?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Yes, depression is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions, although most women with a depressive disorder never seek treatment. Depression is defined as a medical illness that affects the way you look at yourself and the world around you. It is more than simply feeling “down” and is not something that will go away without treatment.
Q: What are some common healthcare screenings for women?
Marla Ahlgrimm: At different life stages, your doctor may recommend a number of tests to screen for blood pressure issues, bone mineral density, breast and cervical cancer, STDs, colorectal cancer, diabetes, and more. Most women should visit their gynecologist for Pap smears regularly, every one to three years depending on age and lifestyle.
Q: When will I enter menopause?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Most women have entered menopause sometime before their 51th birthday. However, it is not uncommon to enter menopause as early as age 40 or as late as 55. Menopause is the time in a woman’s life when she transitions out of her childbearing years. It is a natural process but one that comes with a number of bothersome symptoms, including irregular periods, hot flashes, urinary and vaginal issues, mood changes, and insomnia. Individualized hormone replacement therapy can help and is available by prescription only.
