In an era where women take on multiple roles, including working, caring for their families, and taking care of themselves, women’s health requires special attention, especially “gynecological diseases” related to the reproductive system, hormones, and body balance, which can occur from adolescence to menopause
To help women of all ages be aware and take proper care of themselves, let’s see what “common diseases for modern women” are in each age group
Adolescence (Age 13–20 years) Hormonal changes, the beginning of women’s health care
This period is when sex hormones start to function, causing physical and emotional changes. If not properly cared for, gynecological diseases may occur, such as
- Irregular menstruation due to unstable hormones or stress
- Benign ovarian cyst (Functional Cyst) often caused by abnormal menstrual cycles
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) causing missed periods, easy weight gain, excessive hair growth, and acne
- Vaginal infections from improper hygiene or inappropriate use of sanitary pads
Doctor’s advice
- Maintain cleanliness of the intimate area and avoid douching
- Regularly observe your menstrual cycle. If periods are frequently missed or abnormal symptoms occur, see a gynecologist for further examination
Working age (Age 21–40 years) Family building period and body changes
This is the age when the body and hormones are balanced, but women face stress from work and lifestyle, affecting gynecological health, such as
- Endometriosis causing severe menstrual pain and affecting fertility
- Uterine fibroids (Myoma Uteri) commonly found in working-age women, which may cause heavy menstruation, abdominal pain, or infertility
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection, a major cause of cervical cancer
- Infertility due to hormonal problems or blocked fallopian tubes
Doctor’s advice
- Have regular pelvic exams and cervical cancer screenings (Pap smear / HPV test) annually
- Get vaccinated against cervical cancer
- Maintain life balance, reduce stress, and get enough rest
Perimenopause (Age 41–50 years) Hormones start to decline, risk of chronic and women’s diseases
At this age, the ovaries begin to reduce function, affecting female hormones, causing symptoms and various diseases such as and diseases such as
- Irregular menstruation before menopause
- Cysts or tumors in the uterus and ovaries, some of which may develop into cancer
- Endometrial cancer and ovarian cancer commonly found in this age group
- Menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, excessive sweating, and mood swings
Doctor’s advice
- Have an annual women’s health check-up, especially ultrasound of the uterus and ovaries
- Consult a doctor about safe hormone adjustment
- Maintain a normal weight to prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension
Menopause and postmenopause (50 years and older) A time for holistic health care
After menopause, estrogen levels drop significantly, increasing the risk of gynecological and other systemic diseases such as
- Breast cancer and ovarian cancer
- Vaginal dryness and urinary incontinence due to hormone decline
- Osteoporosis due to decreased calcium absorption
- Cardiovascular diseases due to changes in blood lipids
Doctor’s advice
- Have regular women’s health and breast cancer screenings (Mammogram)
- Exercise regularly, supplement calcium and vitamin D
- Eat a balanced diet and have a general health check-up once a year
Women’s health changes with age, and each age group has specific diseases to be aware of. Regular women’s health check-ups are important to prevent diseases and enable timely treatment, especially gynecological diseases that, if detected early, can be effectively managed and treated
If you have abnormal gynecological symptoms such as irregular menstruation, severe abdominal pain, abnormal vaginal discharge, or are at an age when annual women’s health check-ups are recommended, we recommend you visit and consult a specialist at the “Women’s Health Center, Phyathai Hospital 2” with a team of specialized gynecologists and advanced, comprehensive diagnostic technology to ensure all women have good, balanced health and confidence at every stage of life
Dr. Thanomsiri Satit
Specialist in Gynecologic Laparoscopic Surgery and Oncology
