Women's Health

Women have unique health issues. And some of the health issues that affect both men and women can affect women differently.

Unique issues include pregnancy, menopause, and conditions of the female organs. Women can have a healthy pregnancy by getting early and regular prenatal care. They should also get recommended breast cancer, cervical cancer, and bone density screenings.

Women and men also have many of the same health problems. But these problems can affect women differently. For example,

• Women are more likely to die following a heart attack than men
• Women are more likely to show signs of depression and anxiety than men
• The effects of sexually transmitted diseases can be more serious in women
• Osteoarthritis affects more women than men
• Women are more likely to have urinary tract problems

Healthy lifestyle choices — such as eating a healthy diet and including physical activity in your daily routine — can go a long way toward reducing women's health risks.

For others, women's health concerns include cosmetic surgery. And as you get older, your women's health concerns are likely to change. Could belly fat lead to health problems? Are Kegel exercises really necessary? Get the answers to these and other women's health questions to increase your knowledge.

Home pregnancy tests

Home pregnancy tests are sensitive enough to provide a reading that is about 99 per cent accurate, if instructions are followed correctly. Home pregnancy tests that are currently available include Clearblue One Step, Clearview HGC, Crystal clear, Discover, Dotest Confirm, First Response, Fortel and Pregnosis.
Pregnancy testing can be carried out in 2 ways: some test sticks are held in mid-stream urine, others need a urine sample which is tested with a dip-and-read stick. If using a dip-and-read product, make sure that the urine is collected in a clean glass or plastic container. Urine samples should be tested immediately after collection.

HCG is often at its strongest concentration first thing in the morning, so is a good time to take the test.