Understanding a Mother's Health Journey

Mother's Day is an occasion to honor mothers and an opportunity to focus on women’s health issues. Reproductive and menopausal periods are critical stages in a woman’s life, marked by significant hormonal fluctuations that lead to various health concerns.

I. Reproductive Period

The reproductive phase encompasses the period from puberty to menopause and is characterized by fertility. This phase is characterized by significant hormonal changes, mainly involving estrogen and progesterone. These hormones regulate the menstrual cycle and prepare for pregnancy. However, this stage is not without its challenges and women may experience a range of symptoms and health problems.

• Hormonal Changes: Estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, affecting the growth and shedding of the endometrium. These hormones also have an effect on breast development, bone density and fat distribution.

• Common Diseases: Women in their childbearing years may experience a variety of health problems such as irregular periods, dysmenorrhea, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis and fibroids. These conditions can lead to infertility, dysmenorrhea and abnormal menstrual bleeding.

• Infectious Diseases: These include sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV/AIDS, gonorrhea, chlamydia and human papillomavirus (HPV), which can lead to cervical cancer. Furthermore, other infectious diseases such as hepatitis B and C also affect women during this phase.

II. Menopausal Period

Menopause marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and usually occurs around age 51. This phase is characterized by the cessation of the menstrual cycle and a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels. The transition to menopause may last for several years and is usually accompanied by a variety of symptoms.

• Hormonal Changes: The decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels during menopause can result in vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. These hormonal fluctuations also contribute to sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness and long-term health risks.

• Common Diseases: Menopausal women are at an increased risk of developing chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes and obesity.

• Cancers: Women in this age are at a higher risk of developing specific cancers such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer and colorectal cancer.

• Mental Health: The hormonal changes and physical symptoms of menopause can take a toll on mental health. Women may experience anxiety, depression and cognitive changes.

By realizing the hormonal changes and common diseases during these stages, we can better address the challenges faced by mothers. Enhancing health education, raising awareness about disease prevention, and providing comprehensive medical care are essential steps in improving the well-being of mothers.