We know that education is an essential part of women being in control of their bodies and their health, which is why we created this series that addresses some of the most popular questions women ask their family and friends. In part I of our series on top women’s health questions we addressed changes in a woman’s breasts, heavy menstrual bleeding, and STD testing. Read below for part II of our top women’s health questions series.
How can I work to prevent Osteoporosis and improve my bone health?
Osteoporosis affects millions of American women. It is a bone disease that causes your bones to become weaker and weaker over time. Bone weakness can be responsible for serious injuries that occur from minor accidents – like walking into a piece of furniture or bumping into a wall. Most people tend to think that our bones are lifeless, that we stop growing after adolescence and that’s that – but bone is made of tissue that is alive and growing. Bones need to be taken care of just as much as any other part of the human body. Here are a few easy tips for women to improve the health of their bones:
- Boost your calcium intake – Pay attention to how much calcium is in your diet and talk to your doctor about taking calcium supplements as a way to provide your bones with that extra boost of calcium for excellent density.
- Assess your risk factor – Does your mother or grandmother have osteoporosis? If you have a family history of the disease, then your risk factor is higher than most. Talk to your family and learn about your risk factor for osteoporosis.
- Get moving – Inactivity is bad news for overall health, but it’s particularly an issue for your bones. Even easy activities like walking, light hikes, and swimming in particular are great for bone health.
- Check your medication – Review the effects of your medications with your doctor. He or she will be able to best determine if your medication runs the risk of negatively affecting the health of your bones.
- Cut down on cigarettes and alcohol – Studies have shown that those who have more than two alcoholic drinks per day are more at risk for osteoporosis; the same goes for those who smoke tobacco products regularly.
Is it okay if I skip my birth control pill sometimes?
A lot of women, regardless of their age are under the impression that if they miss a pill or two every now and then it will not result in a pregnancy. Or if they simply forget to take the pills every so often it’s okay because they’re not ovulating during the times they have intercourse. This presumption is false, yet it continues to be a prevalent hypothetical question that women pose to their friends and their doctor. Birth control pills are most effective at preventing pregnancy when they are taken correctly according to the prescription you are given. If you have questions about your chosen form of contraception, please feel free to contact your provider at PGOMG and discuss your contraceptive choice and if any changes need to be made to make preventing a pregnancy as straightforward as possible.
