Health is a common concern these days. With the 24/7 COVID-19 threat over the head, a healthy lifestyle, today, holds utmost importance. ‘Health is Wealth’ – we have been using this phrase since ages to recall and to remember all the time that health has to be the first priority of a person.

A woman devotes most of her time nourishing her children and satisfying the needs of her loved ones. But what about her own health? Most of the women neglect their own health in order to perfectly perform their daily chores. When it comes to looking after her well-being, she, as usual, runs out of time.

International Women’s Day is celebrated around the world in order to bring empowerment and bridging the gap between genders.

Mental and physical health holds much importance and should be maintained. This discipline would reflect on their family’s health and happiness too. Many working women find it difficult to manage their time due to the responsibilities of both office and home and that is why they often very stressed.

A half an hour morning walk will help her maintain her physical health also.

Diseases like breast cancer are increasing day by day. Hence, it is important for a woman to be aware of the signs of breast pathology and regularly observe them. The 5 signs of breast pathology are:

• Dimpling of skin,

• Recurrent lesion,

• Unilateral discharge,

• Any solid lump on palpation, and

• Recent inversion of nipple.

The effect of some vaccinations wears off over time and thus, it is important for every woman to keep their adult vaccinations up to date because they are more prone to a number of diseases.

A list of adult vaccinations:

• Vaccination against HPV,

• Vaccination against Typhoid,

• Vaccination against Influenza,

• Vaccination against Hepatitis.

A regular check-up for ovaries and uterus health is very important for every woman.

It is advisable to go for both check-ups –

• With ultrasounds, and

• With Pap Smear

Exercises are a must to stay health and maintain physical fitness. Starting your day with exercises can give you the best results.

The following two exercises can help them maintain their well-being:

• Weight bearing for bone and muscle strength, and

• Kegel’s for perineal strength.

(Dr Aruna Kalra is a senior gynaecologist and obstetrician at CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram)