Next week is Women’s Health Week and this year’s theme is Am I Normal? At some stage throughout every woman’s
life this question is asked whether it be about size, image, mental health or sex. These questions are completely normal and women should feel comfortable talking about them.
During the week there will be a free online event as well as other live events across the country to encourage women to talk about these issues. On Monday at Northparkes Mines female employees will be able to do a yoga and deep breathing session, as well as attend a lunch health chat on menopause and PMS. Other events in Parkes were not yet available at the time of going to press. Jean Hailes have been conducting research to find what women are most concerned about when it comes to their health.
A survey of over 3,200 women from all ages revealed these top five issues:
• 23% weight management;
• 17% female specific cancers
• 15% mental and emotional health
• 9% menopause
• 8% chronic pain.
How many can you relate to?
The biggest concern is weight management and it’s no wonder with over 11 million women in Australia, more than half of them are overweight. Most of us want to loose a few kilograms, but often have excuses that we are too busy or too tired, yet exercising gives you more energy and produces endorphins that trigger a positive feeling. Taking the initial step is the hardest, but with this being a top concern for women’s health, it is an important issue to tackle.
Another issue of concern is that 65% of women don’t have regular sexual health checks. This week serves as a reminder to get these important check ups done to ensure the overall health of your body.