Yeast infection
According to Marla Ahlgrimm, yeast infections are common, with around 75% of women experiencing one at some point in their lifetime. A yeast infection is the result of a buildup of a certain type of bacteria in and around the vagina. Women who are pregnant, have diabetes, use high-estrogen birth control, douche, or are taking antibiotics have a higher risk of developing yeast infection. Common signs of a yeast infection include vaginal soreness, painful intercourse, discomfort while urinating, burning and redness, and thick, white discharge.
Anorexia
It’s true that men can suffer with eating disorders but, as Marla Ahlgrimm explains, anorexia is most common in young women – more than 90% of all anorexics are girls. Anorexia is a mental health condition that triggers a woman to starve herself in order to live up to societal expectations. It is most common in American culture, which prizes thinness. Untreated, anorexia may cause depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and issues with the heart and brain. Marla Ahlgrimm reports that anorexia in adolescent girls may inhibit physical development.
Breast cancer
Marla Ahlgrimm reports that nearly one in eight women will be touched by the devastating effects breast cancer at some point in their lives. This may be through direct illness or the sickness of a friend, mother, or sister. Breast cancer is one of the top three cancer deaths in women in the United States. Early signs of breast cancer may include breast changes, firm tissue near the breast, or a lumps. Age is the number one risk factor for breast cancer, with most women being diagnosed after the age of 50. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, women with a personal or family history and those who inherit certain harmful gene mutations are also at a greater risk.
