The WHO (World Health Organization) defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Often when a woman sees an obstetrician-gynecologist, it’s because she’s pregnant or has a reproductive disorder. While this is part of her overall health, it’s not the complete picture. 

​

Reproductive and sexual health carry different weight for female patients because of the woman’s role in pregnancy and birth. Dr Motameni and her staff clearly understand stages of women transitions and needs of each stage. 

​

Women's Health Q & A

What health issues are more common for women?

Women have a host of unique health concerns like pregnancy and birth control, and are more vulnerable to certain conditions like heart disease. Additionally, while men and women get many of the same diseases, they often present different symptoms.

​

Although many of the following issues are found in both women and men, they are more common for women:

Heart disease: women are up to three times more likely to die of a heart attack than men
Stroke: women can have a higher stroke risk because of birth control use, pregnancy, or hormone replacement therapy
Urinary tract infections (UTIs): women have a shorter urethra making it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder and start an infection
Osteoarthritis: women over the age of 45 are more likely to develop this kind of arthritis than men
Depression: women, especially between the ages of 14-25, are twice as likely to show signs of depression as men

While most women are rigorous about breast and genealogical exams, the No. 1 killer of American women today is actually heart disease.

​

What are some steps I can take to avoid these conditions?

For many health issues, but especially for heart disease and stroke, there are some preventive steps you can take:

Maintain a healthy diet
Choose to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, and lean meats. Avoid alcohol and smoking as much as you can.

Exercise
It’s important to be active for at least 30 minutes every day. Studies have shown daily exercise hugely improves your chances against heart problems.

Learn to manage stress, anxiety, and depression in a healthy way. If you find yourself constantly overtired and over stressed, you might be increasing your chances for heart disease or stroke.

​

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Motameni to learn more about the issues that can affect you and the steps you can take to prevent them.

​

What tests are included in a women's health exam?

As you age, it’s important to get yearly checkups as a preventive step to detect any lurking health conditions. As a woman it’s important to have the following checked routinely:

Blood pressure
Bone mineral density for osteoporosis
Breast cancer screening
Cholesterol levels
Other screenings for things like depression, diabetes, and more are available and you should speak to Dr. Motameni if you feel these tests might be relevant for you.

​

Call Internal Medicine Practice or use online booking to schedule your next health exam or an annual physical today.

​