Navigating Female Health Challenges And Their Solutions

During childhood, the idea was simple. Feel unwell? Visit the doctor for help. However, as health challenges grew more intricate and necessitated specialized attention, understanding shifted for me, as well as for many others in my circle. I became well-acquainted with the gender health gap and disparities in women’s health equity in our nation, all at a youthful age.

Before delving into my personal journey and sharing valuable insights from experts on advocating for your well-being as a woman to validate your health concerns, let’s highlight some enraging facts:

• Closing the gender health gap globally could offer women an average of seven additional healthy days yearly—summing up to 500 more healthy days throughout a lifetime.

• Just four years back, only 1% of healthcare research and innovation funding was allocated for female-specific conditions, excluding oncology.

• In the United States, women typically outlive men but experience a greater percentage of their lives in ill health.

• Research indicates that women reporting pain are more inclined to be prescribed tranquilizers rather than pain-relief medication.

• For instances of abdominal pain, women, on average, wait 65 minutes for pain relief medication, while men wait only 49 minutes.

• In a study on patients who underwent heart bypass surgery, women were only half as likely as men to receive prescription painkillers, despite having identical procedures.

Feeling sufficiently riled up? Continue reading.

Navigating Female Health Challenges: A Personal Perspective

Throughout my 20+ years grappling with endometriosis, adenomyosis, and a host of related issues, I’ve accumulated knowledge. Following numerous surgeries, extensive physical therapy, mental health crises, and ample medications and hormones, navigating the healthcare system as a woman has taught me much. I’ve observed, experienced, researched, and connected with others in similar situations. I’ve mastered the art of advocating for my well-being.

I’ve realized that doctors, too, are human—with a spectrum of qualities: good, bad, attentive, indifferent, biased, altruistic, and more. Finding that single doctor who listens, empathizes, and believes in you can make a world of difference.

Empowering Yourself for Better Health Advocacy

Failing to have your concerns taken seriously can be disheartening and distressing. I’ve consulted various medical professionals for their guidance on obtaining the care and attention you merit. Here’s what they recommend.

Strength in Unity

According to Shenella Karunaratne, Licensed Professional Counselor, Online MFT Programs, having a trusted family member or friend accompany you to appointments can be invaluable in advocating for your health. They can support you or articulate on your behalf, making it harder to ignore your concerns when raised by two individuals instead of one.

Be Prepared

Prior to your appointment, invest time in gathering all necessary documents and information. Bring past medical records, medication lists, relevant articles, details of previous procedures, and anything else pertinent. Adequate preparation results in more productive and precise discussions.

Maintain Documentation

If your symptoms are intermittent, maintain a detailed record. Noting the timing, triggers, and patterns of your symptoms aids healthcare providers in identifying potential causes. Having concrete data like dates of symptom onset and severity provides a clearer clinical picture.

Effective Communication

Dr. Paul Daidone emphasizes the importance of clear and factual dialogue. Women should express their experiences accurately, avoiding vagueness or self-diagnosing. Equipping yourself with knowledge enables you to pose pertinent questions and insist on necessary tests or referrals.

Assertively demanding thorough explanations and proper understanding of diagnoses and treatments is crucial. If any information is unclear, seeking clarification is imperative before concluding the appointment.

Know Your Entitlements

Understanding your rights as a patient is vital. You are entitled to comprehensive care and respectful treatment. Keeping records of all medical interactions, following up after appointments, and utilizing patient advocacy services enhance your ability to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

Inquire Openly

Dr. Peter Hinz emphasizes the importance of asking specific questions and seeking clarity on your health matters. Requesting thorough explanations and clarifications on diagnoses and treatments is crucial. Do not hesitate to seek a deeper understanding of your care plan.

Challenge Biases and Stereotypes

If you sense biases or dismissiveness, address them. Gender disparities in healthcare are tangible and should not be overlooked. Seek to overcome obstacles by being proactive, informed, and assertive in your interactions. Healthcare providers must also recognize and counter biases to ensure quality patient care.