Health is a subject that is present in our lives all the time, no matter what we do or what actions we take in our daily routine, we must always be aware of possible diseases and issues that our health may present to us. Preventing diseases is something simple and should be followed rigorously, but unfortunately not all of us are aware of how important it is to adopt certain habits that can save us from facing serious health problems. In the case of women, some special care is necessary. The female body is full of singularities, as it is the woman who carries another life inside her, who has an extremely complex reproductive system, in addition to other characteristics that go far beyond the particularities of pregnancy or menstruation. For this reason, some diseases appear more frequently in women, or only in women. We have put together a list of the 7 most common diseases in women and show some ways to prevent and take care of yourself, avoiding their occurrence. There are diseases that are exclusively feminine, such as the appearance of fibroids and some specific types of cancer, such as cervical cancer. Discharge and menstrual cramps are some on the list of common and easily treatable problems, but there are others that are a bit more complex and require more delicate medical treatment. There are also diseases that most people believe affect only women, but can also affect men, albeit to a lesser extent. This is the case with diseases like breast cancer, candidiasis and urinary tract infection. Find out here what the main symptoms of these diseases are and some prevention methods you can use.

1 – Candidiasis

Candidiasis is an infection caused by Candida fungi, especially Candida albicans. These fungi are found practically everywhere. Some can live harmlessly alongside the common and “native” species of bacteria that usually inhabit the mouth, gastrointestinal tract and vagina. Normally, Candida is kept under control by the native bacteria and by the immune system of women’s bodies. However, if the mix of native bacteria is altered by antibiotics, the moisture in the body that surrounds these bacteria may also have subtle changes in its acidity or chemistry. This can cause an increase in Candida fungi and disrupt the body’s natural balance, which can lead to candidiasis.

Symptoms of Candidiasis

The most common symptoms of Candidiasis are:

  • Whitish vaginal discharge;
  • Itching;
  • Burning when urinating;
  • Pain during sexual intercourse.

How to Prevent Candidiasis

As it is a disease related to low immunity, it is good to always be attentive when taking medications such as antibiotics, when changing birth control and even regarding hygiene and dietary habits. Avoiding the constant use of internal sanitary pads and very tight clothing also helps prevent candidiasis.

2 – HPV

HPV is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the papillomavirus. The virus can cause warts on the skin, anus, vagina, and in other areas of the body. There are more than 100 variations of the papillomavirus, which can be a major concern.

How to Prevent HPV

However, preventing this disease is easy: Have sex using condoms and always keep your Pap smear up to date. This way, contracting HPV is very difficult, and even if it is contracted, treating it from the start makes the symptoms milder and disappear more quickly.

Importance of Treatment

Its treatment is of great importance, as the disease is seen as a precursor to cervical cancer. In its advanced stage, HPV can cause this type of cancer.

3 – Urinary tract infection

Urinary tract infection is one of the most common diseases in women and the reason is very simple. Unlike men, the female urethra is located near the anus, that is, close to several bacteria that inhabit the end of our digestive system and that can invade the urethra and reach the bladder. Furthermore, women may be especially prone to urinary infectionsbecause they have a shorter urethra, which allows bacteria to reach the bladder more easily. Sexual intercourse without proper care can also introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.

How to Prevent Urinary Tract Infection

Preventing urinary tract infection is simple. Vaginal hygiene should be performed every time you urinate. It is extremely important to never use the same condom for anal and vaginal intercourse. With these basic and minimal precautions it is possible to reduce the chances of urinary infection occurring.

4 – Breast cancer

The most common type of cancer in women is breast cancer. This cancer affects millions of women every year and, when treated late, reduces the chances of cure. To give you an idea, breast cancer is the second leading cause of death in women in Brazil, behind only heart disease. Women who had a very early menstruation and women with a family history of the disease should be more attentive, as the exact cause of breast cancer formation is unknown.

How to Prevent Breast Cancer

Prevention should be done through self-examination, where you should check for any signs of lumps or unusual formations in your breasts. Remember that the earlier breast cancer is discovered, the higher the chances of successful treatment and cure.

5 – Depression

Although it also affects men on a large scale, depression tends to be more common in women. Studies show that women are twice as likely as men to have depression.

Symptoms of Depression

Some of the reasons for this are hormonal fluctuations and postpartum and menopausal trauma, but the exact reason this disease develops so easily in women is still not known. The main symptoms of the disease are:

  • Lack of motivation;
  • Loss of pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable;
  • Persistent sadness;
  • Social isolation.

How to Prevent Depression

There is no prevention guide for depression, some of the most common diseases among women do not present any signs they might appear and simply arrive. However, treatment for depression can be carried out calmly and with proper psychological support.

6- Uterine Fibroid

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors of the smooth muscle of the uterus. In most cases, they do not present symptoms, while in others there may be painful or heavy menstrual periods. If large, they can push against the bladder causing frequent urination.

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroid

They can also cause pain during sex or lower back pain. A woman may have only one fibroid or many of them. Occasionally, this type of disease can cause problems for a woman to become pregnant, although this is not very common and can also cause problems during pregnancy.

How to Prevent Uterine Fibroid

Prevention is done with routine exams that should be performed yearly to check and monitor women’s health. When treated early, it is possible to control or even reduce the size of fibroids through medications such as contraceptives. If it cannot be controlled through medication, there are treatment options such as uterine artery embolization or surgery to remove the fibroid. In more severe cases, hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be necessary.

7- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or simply PCOS, is a metabolic disorder where the woman may develop ovarian cysts that increase their size. Women with polycystic ovaries have irregular menstrual cycles and difficulty getting pregnant, in addition to developing insulin resistance, which can cause diabetes.

How to Prevent PCOS

As with depression and other common diseases in women, there is no way to prevent polycystic ovary syndrome. Its exact origin is also unknown, although many believe the disease may have genetic causes. Despite this, there are treatments to lessen and control symptoms. Taking care of your health is important at any age. Many of the diseases mentioned here can be avoided and also treated, especially if discovered early. Therefore, preventive care and taking the necessary exams regularly are essential. Becoming aware that you are the main agent and responsible for your own health is extremely important and beneficial for you. Also see: Heavy Menstrual Flow Photo: katermikesch