Women's Health Questions

Learning the answers to some basic women's health questions will keep you alert and prepared for various health conditions that may arise in your life. If you have any problems that persist for a long period for a long time, consult your doctor. No self help guide should replace a professional physician's care.

What causes acne?

• Several things can cause acne. Changes in hormones during both puberty and adulthood can cause it, as can certain medications. Makeup, improper cleaning and family history of acne can all cause acne, too. It's important to note that stress does not cause acne, but can be a side effect of medications used to treat this condition. Foods cannot cause acne either.

  To prevent acne, clean your face each morning and night. Remove all makeup, dirt, oil or other grime that may have made its way to your face during the day. Never pick at pimples as they may spread additional oils to other places on your skin.

What is pelvic inflammatory disease?

• Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection that attacks a woman's pelvic organs. These organs include fallopian tubes, ovaries, the uterus and additional reproductive organs. PID is caused by a bacteria that moves through a woman's vagina. Two bacteria found in chlamydia and gonorrhea, two sexually-transmitted diseases, are major causes of PID in women. Have an STD test every 6 months to ensure that you are sexually healthy.

How do I perform a breast self-exam?

• The best time to perform a breast self-exam (BSE) is 10 to 12 days after your period has ended, when your breasts are no longer tender or swollen from fluctuating hormone levels.

  Conduct the exam in the shower with wet skin. Glide your fingers around the breast in circular motions. You are looking and feeling for any abnormalities in color on the breast as well as any masses or marble-like lumps internally.

  Perform the BSE on one breast at a time. Raise your arm over your head and continue around your breast in a clockwise motion. Use all fingers of your hand for more effective results. Squeeze the nipple and ensure that there is no discharge. Also feel under your armpit and to the curve of your breast as lumps can develop there too. Repeat the same process on the other breast, nipple and underarm area.

  It's important to report any changes in your breasts, whether size, color or other abnormalities, to your doctor immediately. While not all of these changes are life threatening, they can be a result of an additional health problem that is treatable.

What can I do to prevent heart disease?

• Heart disease prevention in women requires a series of tests. First, get tested for diabetes. Individuals with diabetes have an increased risk of heart disease. Have your blood pressure tested. A long period of time with high blood pressure can lead to an increased risk of heart disease. Have a cholesterol test too, as high cholesterol clogs the arteries and keeps blood from the heart.
  Lastly, stay a healthy weight. An overweight woman is at a higher risk of heart disease. Eat healthy and remain active to maintain your weight.

Where can I get medical questions answered professionally?

• Visit your local health department for additional help with various medical questions. Consult with your medical insurance company to inquire if they have medical help lines for questions to be answered.