In the Twenties

As a young woman your life is full of challenges. You may be finishing your formal education and beginning a new career. Being healthy and energetic is really important to you, and your Women’s Health Care physician is your partner in establishing healthy habits and maintaining your health.

The best thing you can do to assure yourself of a long, healthy life is to establish healthy habits. Eat regular meals featuring healthy choices from all food groups, especially fresh vegetables and fruits and whole grains. Avoid too much fatty food or high-calorie desserts. You may also choose to supplement your diet with a multi-vitamin. Get plenty of exercise, at least 30 minutes a day of vigorous walking, jogging, running, dance or other aerobic exercise. And even though there’s so much going on in your life it seems difficult, try to get plenty of rest. Most sources recommend eight hours of uninterrupted rest per night to help you maintain your physical and mental energy and avoid illness.

If you have not done so yet, you should have your first pelvic exam and Pap test at age 21. This exam will identify any possible problems and establish a baseline of what’s normal for you. Then you and your physician will discuss the scheduling an annual check-up.

If you are not ready to start your family, your physician will discuss birth control options and help you decide on a method that best suits your lifestyle. Your physician can also provide guidance about healthy practices that will eventually lead to successful pregnancy and childbirth.

If you experience problem periods – exceptionally heavy bleeding, irregular periods, cramping or headaches – your physician may offer treatments that will help alleviate your problems. In addition, any health concerns you have are worthy of your physician’s attention, and he or she will help you determine what treatments you may need.

Hormone imbalances often contribute to troubling health issues for young women, from mood swings to migraine headaches and more. If you think you may have some of these problems, be sure to discuss your symptoms with your physician. Your Women’s Health Care physician wants you to feel your best, ready to face the rest of your exciting life as a woman!