Women’s reproductive health is always changing. From childhood through older age, women can expect changes in their bodies. These changes can be perfectly normal and speak to how active reproductive health is.
There are also variables depending on if a woman chooses to get pregnant or decides to go on birth control. Learn a little bit about the general trajectory below.
Puberty
This is the stage where a girl’s body begins to mature into a woman’s body. On average, puberty for girls starts at age 11.
The first menstrual cycle is usually the biggest marker of this time. However, puberty does not begin with a girl’s first period.
Growth of the body, breast development, and pubic and armpit hair growth can occur before a menstrual cycle begins.
Reproductive Age
After puberty, a woman has reached reproductive maturity. This means she is fertile can conceive. There is where women need to know about their options.
There are numerous birth control measures like the birth control pill, patch, ring, IUD, implant, or shot. There are also emergency contraceptive measures should an original method fail. If a woman does get pregnant, further options can be discussed at an abortion clinic Dallas.
Keeping a woman’s reproductive system healthy is also important. Annual women’s health checkups can detect issues before they become bigger. A gynecologist is a medical professional that is trained in diagnosing and treating women’s reproductive concerns. Seeking out a gynecologist can help answer your specific concerns.
Pregnancy
If a woman decides to get pregnant and carry her pregnancy to term, this is a dynamic time. A woman’s body changes substantially to accommodate for a growing fetus.
Nine months is the common length of a pregnancy. An obstetrician is a medical professional that specializes in pregnancy care and delivery.
Seeking out an obstetrician is important for any pregnant woman. This way, they can get personalized care best suited for their specific needs.
Perimenopause
This is a transitional period between full reproductive maturity and menopause. The female body produces less estrogen, so these hormone levels can begin to drop. This can create irregular menstrual cycles. The irregularity can be startling, but it is perfectly normal. Discussing concerns with a gynecologist can help.
Menopause
Menopause is a natural biological process. On average, it happens for women between the ages of 45 and 55. During menopause, a woman’s period stops.
This is because her body ceases estrogen production. The rest of the body needs to adjust to this absence of estrogen.
There are numerous symptoms like hot flashes, poor sleep, night sweats, chills, or mood changes. Know that these symptoms are not permanent.
Once the body adjusts to the lack of estrogen, the symptoms usually start to subside.
It can be an exciting and dynamic journey to navigate. Women should know they are not alone.
As referenced above, there are medical professionals trained to diagnose and treat women’s health issues.
Creating a lasting relationship with an OBGYN can help a woman navigate their reproductive health journey.