May is Women’s Health Month, and we’re doing our part to recognize some of the health challenges women in the industry face. Once women hit their 40s, health symptoms start to pop up. While most are nothing to worry about, some may require a visit to your health professional. Changes in the body, including sudden weight fluctuations, migraines, bloating, and breast changes, should be taken seriously. Here, we have the complete list of symptoms women should never ignore. 

7 signs women shouldn’t ignore

1. Breast changes or abnormalities

What it is: Abnormalities in the breasts could look like many different things, and sometimes it’s cause for concern. Significant changes to look out for include a breast lump and armpit swelling, discharge from your nipples, an inverted nipple, dimpling of the skin, a rash, or discoloration or reddening. 

What it could mean: It could be a cyst or a fat deposit. Some people with breasts also experience swelling during their menstrual cycles. It could also be breast cancer. 

What to do: Because breast cancer is so prevalent, make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any changes. If all is well, continue to get your breasts examined during your yearly physical with your doctor. You should also do a self-examination regularly, especially during your menstrual cycle. 

2. Pain during intercourse

What it is: It’s normal to experience discomfort occasionally during intercourse. But it’s worth investigating if the pain is extreme or persists long afterward. 

What it could mean: Pain during intercourse could signal endometriosis, which is a painful disorder where the tissue that is supposed to line your uterus grows outside of it. Often, it can lead to infertility. The pain could also mean an infection or a hormone imbalance. 

What to do: If pain persists or is recurring after each time you’re intimate, speak with your doctor. Monitor your symptoms and let them know if things worsen. 

3. Changes in vaginal discharge

What it is: Changes in color, smell, amount, and texture of vaginal discharge compared to what you’re used to. Changes could also mean itching, burning, or pain during urination. 

What it could mean: It could be something as simple as stress or a change in your birth control method. But it could also be bacterial vaginosis, a yeast infection, an STI, or a sign of diabetes or HIV.

What to do: Spotting—a reddish-brownish discharge following menstruation—is usually not something to worry about. However, if the changes persist or the color or odor drastically changes and is concerning, consult your doctor for a checkup.

4. Sudden weight gain or loss

What it is: A sudden weight gain or loss without changing your diet or exercise regimen. A sudden change of 10 pounds in either direction is cause for concern. 

What it could mean: Rapid weight gain could be a sign of kidney disease, insomnia, or cirrhosis. Rapid weight loss could mean celiac disease, thyroid issues, heart disease, HIB, or cancer. If a tumor is present, it could severely diminish your appetite, so these symptoms are generally more serious in nature. 

What to do: Contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible, or if you feel other symptoms and feel generally unwell, seek emergency medical assistance. 

5. Chronic fatigue

What it is: If you feel lethargic or exhausted without improvement, and it’s not sparked from physical exertion, don’t ignore it. Feelings of fatigue that last throughout the day and impact your ability to function could mean an underlying medical issue. 

What it could mean: There could be a range of explanations for chronic fatigue, including an iron deficiency, hypothyroidism, depression, lack of vitamin D, or insufficient sleep.

What to do: If your chronic fatigue remains persistent, schedule an appointment with your doctor to assess your lifestyle and symptoms.

6. Migraines

What it is: A migraine is a headache disorder that numerous things can trigger. It’s prolonged, throbbing, and head pain that can sometimes impact your ability to function. Usually, it’s not a sign that you have a medical problem, but if you notice more severe migraines, take note. 

What it could mean: A new, severe headache could mean a hormone imbalance, improper sleep, too much stress, or weather changes. More severe medical issues could include neurological issues, but it’s rare. 

What to do: Understand your personal migraine history. What’s routine for you, and what isn’t? This will help you dictate when you need help. If your migraines change in severity or regularity, or come in tandem with other symptoms, talk to your doctor. 

7. Bloating and abdominal pressure

What it is: Many women experience bloating after eating certain foods or during various parts of their menstrual cycle. However, persistent bloating and abdominal pressure that lasts more than a week may be cause for concern. 

What it could mean: This persistent bloating and pressure, coupled with weight loss, frequent urination, and feeling full quickly after eating, could be a symptom of ovarian cancer.

What to do: If you’re noticing these sudden and persistent changes in your body, consult your doctor and ensure you give them the complete list of your symptoms and their duration. 

Women’s health matters

Many conditions affect both men and women, but often, they affect women more commonly and more severely. Most drug trials today also do not include female test subjects, and women more often experience anxiety and depression, urinary tract infections, and harm from sexually transmitted infections.

Additionally, many ailments are almost exclusive to women, and they often go undiagnosed or untreated. These conditions include menopause, pregnancy-related conditions, breast cancer, and cervical cancer. 

Breast cancer: Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in Canadian women, and about 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with it in their lifetime. While breast cancer can impact both men and women, it typically originates from the lining of milk ducts. It can then spread to other organs, and it is the most aggressive cancer affecting the global Assigned Female At Birth (AFAB) population. Initially, women diagnosed with breast cancer may develop a breast lump. While most lumps are non-threatening, having each one checked out by a healthcare professional is crucial. 

Cervical and ovarian cancer: Cervical cancer typically originates in the lower uterus, as opposed to ovarian cancer, which starts in the fallopian tubes. Both cancers cause similar pains, but cervical cancer also causes a change in discharge and often pain during intercourse. Ovarian cancer presents very vague symptoms, but it can be a very difficult condition to treat. It’s best to get regular physicals and a pap smear to keep your health at the forefront of your mind. 

The women in your life, whether you or a loved one, matter. Check in with yourself, and if you experience changes in your breasts, discharge, chronic fatigue, or new types of migraines, don’t sweep it under the rug. Get checked out, get answers, and stay safe. 

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