Women's health encompasses a broad spectrum of physical, mental, and reproductive well-being, addressing the unique aspects of a woman’s body over her lifetime. Empowering women through education, regular check-ups, and access to healthcare services is essential for maintaining, enhancing, and elevating their health. Marshall and their team of amazing physicians and specialists understand that comprehensive healthcare for women involves more complexity and requires various preventive measures, screenings, and interventions specific to them. It’s about equipping women with the necessary tools and support to make informed decisions, removing barriers to care, and in the process, helping them address their individual needs effectively.
We begin with women's heart health, a critical yet often overlooked aspect of overall well-being. While heart disease has long been associated with men, it is the leading cause of death for women worldwide. Recognizing the unique symptoms of heart disease in women and addressing risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol levels are essential steps in safeguarding cardiovascular wellness. Dr. Lena Avedissian, a dedicated cardiologist at Marshall, emphasizes the importance of comprehending and tackling the distinctive elements influencing women's heart health, crucial for preventing and efficiently managing any cardiovascular conditions a patient may face.
Dr. Avedissian describes several factors that make women's heart health distinct. “While men typically experience classic symptoms such as chest pain, radiating pain to the arms, and shortness of breath, women may not always manifest these typical signs of heart problems. Instead, they might present with atypical symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, nausea, or back pain, which are frequently misinterpreted or even disregarded. Consequently, women frequently overlook these symptoms and may not take proactive steps to seek assistance.” She continues, that “there also exists a physician barrier, where primary care physicians can often display greater caution regarding the risk of heart attacks in men, resulting in earlier referrals to cardiology for them than for women.” These societal factors, including disparities in healthcare access and gender-specific risk factors, further contribute to the complexity of women's heart health.
While the identification and symptoms may differ from men to women, cardiovascular screening tests remain the same and play a pivotal role in the early detection and prevention of heart-related ailments. “Typical non-invasive stress tests and screenings to more invasive testing protocols such as Cardiac CTs or MRIs help us diagnose various heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, and heart rhythm abnormalities. The choice of testing, no matter the gender, depends on factors such as the patient's overall health, risk factors, and specific symptoms,” asserts Dr. Avedissian.
Research specifically focused on women's heart health is instrumental in refining prevention and treatment strategies. Dr. Avedissian advises that healthcare providers should tailor interventions to address gender-specific needs, considering the impact of a patient’s age and where they might be in their hormonal life spans as well as other factors unique to women. She believes educating women about the importance of recognizing and acting on symptoms, as well as advocating for their cardiovascular health, is paramount. By understanding risks, adopting healthy lifestyle choices, and seeking timely medical care, women can take that step towards safeguarding their heart health effectively.
In the intricate realm of healthcare, few specialties are as pivotal and intimate as gynecology. Rooted in the profound understanding of the female body, gynecologists serve as guardians of women's reproductive health and overall wellness, offering both medical expertise and compassionate care. Dr. Scolastica Njoroge, a respected OBGYN physician for Marshall, understands she must play a fundamental role in motivating women to navigate the complexities of their bodies and helping to address the unique concerns that we as women may face.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause are natural and can have significant effects on a woman's health and well-being. Dr. Njoroje shares with us the importance of understanding these changes and fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels. “Testing hormone levels is important in patients that are experiencing symptoms of menopause however, regular testing of hormones is unnecessary if a patient is asymptomatic. A woman’s menstrual cycle is the best indicator that your hormones are functioning correctly. Symptoms such as abnormal periods, a sudden pause in your cycle, or pain outside of your normal cycle would be reasons for a visit to your doctor. Abnormalities though can vary with each woman and only a woman knows what is normal for her and must be proactive when seeking medical care,” explains Dr. Njoroge. She stresses the importance of having an open dialogue with your OBGYN to help console any concerns or worries involving hormonal imbalances, ensuring personalized guidance and appropriate response.
Early detection is a cornerstone of women's health, playing a pivotal role in preventing and managing various medical conditions such as breast or cervical cancers. Regular screenings and proactive healthcare significantly contribute to timely interventions and improved outcomes. When it comes to breast exams, Dr. Njoroge says, “Breast self-examination is not recommended in average-risk women because there is a risk of harm from false-positive test results and a lack of evidence of benefit. Average-risk women should be counseled about breast self-awareness and encouraged to notify their healthcare provider if they experience a change. Clinical breast exams are recommended for high-risk women and any women with symptoms. Routine yearly mammograms are recommended for women starting at the age of 40 who are considered low-risk with no history of cancer in the family.” With regards to cervical cancer, Dr. Njoroge states, “Screening for cervical cancer is recommended every three years starting at the age of 21. For women aged 30 to 65 years, screening can be done every five years with either high-risk HPV testing alone or High-risk HPV testing in combination with cervical cytology. It is important to discuss the results of your pap smear with your physician to make sure what screening interval is appropriate for you.”
Open communication about any health concerns involving symptoms that seem abnormal to you is essential to tailor healthcare to your individual needs. Dr. Njoroge tells us it's important to see your OBGYN once a year to not only address concerns you may have but to establish a baseline of what is typical for your body and health. Women should feel encouraged to take the initiative and collaborate with their care providers for personalized guidance and preemptive care in navigating their distinctive health journey.
Women's health is a multifaceted and dynamic realm that demands attention, understanding, and an ideology of proactivity. Marshall physicians Dr. Njoroge and Dr. Avedissian emphasize the significance of enlightening women through education, routine examinations, and readily available healthcare services to uphold and improve their well-being. Every woman deserves the right to thrive, and by prioritizing women's health, we not only enhance our individual lives but also contribute to the overall well-being of communities and future generations. Together, let us embrace a future where women's health is a universal priority, ensuring that every woman can lead a life filled with vitality, resilience, and fulfillment.
Marshall has announced a new clinic set to open this winter at the former Blue Shield building in the business park, expanding access to top-notch medical services for the El Dorado Hills community.
Recognizing the unique symptoms of heart disease in women and addressing risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol levels are essential steps in safeguarding cardiovascular wellness.
Women should feel encouraged to take the initiative and collaborate with their care providers for personalized guidance and preemptive care in navigating their distinctive health journey.
