Top Myths about Women’s Health Over 40

Summary: Women deal with many health issues when they cross 40. However most of the health issues are just a myth.

It’s a common routine for women who touch their 40s to immerse themselves into diet plans and drug ads to deal with many biological changes occurring in their body. Thing is that most of these so called health problems related to aging are just a myth.

Here are top 10 myths you should avoid.

It is better to avoid traditional hormone therapy for bio-identical hormones

Till date no evidence exists that proves safety or superiority of bioidentical hormones as compared to traditional hormone therapy. Pharmacies producing bioidentical hormones are not regulated adequately. In wake of absence of substantial evidences and research findings it is better to assume that side effects from bioidentical hormones are no less than conventional hormones.

Menopause will continue to bother

Hot flashes, depression and memory loss- all these are the side effects of menopause. But not necessarily everyone suffers from them. Menopause is a temporary phase and gets over without treatment most of the time. Even those who experience intense depression and hot flashes, many options are available for managing these side effects.

Therefore break that stereotype thinking that all women suffer equally from menopause.

Sex takes a back seat as we age

Libido and desires fluctuate throughout our lives and not only after menopause. There can be many reasons for lack of sex desire like a rough relationship or disturbed physical health. Some medications can decrease blood flow that affects arousal, desire and orgasm quality. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are on any such medication.

Menopause can cause vaginal dryness and irritation. For such discomfort lubricants and vaginal moisturizers are available.

Your bone density is an indicator of your chances of hip fracture

Definitely poor bone density is a fracture risk but it is not the only one. Medications, individual physical characteristics, family history of fractures and age all contribute to hip fracture equally. The risk of hip fracture can be reduced by ensuring proper intake of vitamin D and calcium. Also change in lifestyle like exercising regularly and quitting smoking will help.

You can’t get breast cancer if no one in your family had it

Family history of breast cancer increases risks of suffering from it in a woman but it doesn’t mean those without a family history cannot suffer from breast cancer. Almost 80% of women who suffer from breast cancer have no family history or genetic risk of it.

It is better to stay alert and get your breast checked regularly.

Only young women should worry about STDs and unexpected pregnancy

Women over 40 have fewer pregnancies but studies show that more than half of these pregnancies are unexpected.

After menopause you might get lenient with birth control but risks of STDs is always high. Whether you are with a same partner or multiple partners, you should always take all the necessary precautions.

Weight gain is inevitable as we age

Changes like weight gain and lower energy are common as we age but not inevitable. Mainly poor eating habits and reduced physical activity is the cause of weight gain in women. It is even more important to maintain a strict diet and active lifestyle after you touch your 40.

Hope these myths won’t bother you any longer.

Resource Box: Tampa Abortion Clinic. Dr. James S. Pendergraft opened the Orlando Women's Center in March 1996 to provide a full range of health care for women, including abortions, physical examinations, family planning and counseling. Abortion Clinic.