Patient Resource Center
Welcome to your go-to health resource! Each month, we spotlight key topics to keep women informed and empowered. Explore health risks, how conditions affect women differently, and practical wellness tips. Plus, find helpful products, events, and resources to support your well-being. Check back regularly for new topics and events!
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A New Era for Women’s Health: What You Need to Know
An Introduction to Women's Health
For years, women’s health didn’t receive the attention it deserved. Research often focused on men, leaving gaps in understanding the unique ways diseases and conditions affect women. Today, things are changing. With better research, education, and care, women’s health is finally getting the spotlight it deserves.
The Evolution of Women’s Healthcare
For most of history, women’s health wasn’t a priority in medical research—and even today, there are still big gaps in how women’s conditions are studied, diagnosed, and treated.
Milestones That Shaped Women’s Health
• In 1849, Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell became the first woman to earn a medical degree in the U.S., paving the way for women in medicine.
• In the 1950s, the Pap smear became a standard test, drastically reducing cervical cancer deaths.
• In 1977, the FDA banned most women from participating in clinical drug trials, fearing pregnancy risks—this decision wasn’t reversed until 1993.
• In 2016, the first major study on how heart disease affects women differently than men was published, despite heart disease being the number one killer of women.
These milestones show progress, but research still has a long way to go in fully understanding women’s unique health needs.
The Progress We’ve Made
Research
Early studies focused primarily on men, but now more research specifically examines women’s unique health needs.
Education
Providers are trained to recognize subtle symptoms in women that were often overlooked in the past.
Screenings
Tools like mammograms, Pap smears, and bone density tests have transformed early detection and prevention for women.
What this means for you
Earlier diagnoses and targeted treatments for conditions like heart disease, breast cancer, and osteoporosis, along with more personalized care tailored to your unique health risks and goals.
Why Women’s Healthcare Still Needs More Attention
Women’s health has come a long way, but there’s still work to do. Many conditions affect women differently than men, yet research, diagnosis, and treatment haven’t always kept up.
Women Are Diagnosed Later Than Men.
Heart disease, autoimmune conditions, and even cancers are often caught later in women, leading to more complications and fewer treatment options.
Women Face Higher Risks, But Research Lags Behind.
Autoimmune diseases and Alzheimer’s affect women at much higher rates, yet most research is still based on men, leaving critical gaps in understanding and treatment.
Medical Tests Were Designed Around Men.
The "normal" body temperature of 98.6°F was based on men in the 1800s—modern research suggests women’s temperature is often higher, yet testing standards haven’t changed.
Medications Affect Women Differently.
Women’s bodies process medications differently than men’s, but most drug dosages are still based on male biology. This can lead to stronger side effects or treatments that don’t work as well as they should.
The good news? More research is focusing on women’s health than ever before, leading to earlier diagnoses, better treatments, and a future where women’s unique health needs are fully understood and prioritized.
What’s Next for Women’s Health? Studies to Watch
For too long, women’s health—especially in aging—has been under-researched. But that’s changing. Scientists are uncovering new insights that could transform healthcare for women. Here are three studies making an impact:
• Understanding Menopause – The Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) is tracking how menopause affects heart health, memory, and aging. Their findings could help doctors predict and prevent future health issues.
• The Key to Healthy Aging – The Women’s Healthy Ageing Project (WHAP) is uncovering how lifestyle choices in midlife impact long-term health, helping women make changes now for a healthier future.
• A New Clue for Breast Cancer Risk – Researchers are studying Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), which helps predict menopause timing, to see if it’s linked to breast cancer risk. This could lead to better early detection and prevention.
The future of women’s health is finally getting the attention it deserves—and these studies are just the beginning.
A Guide: How to Advocate for Yourself at Your Provider's Office
With so many women facing late diagnoses, stronger medication side effects, and feeling unheard, it’s easy to feel frustrated with the healthcare system. But you have more power than you think. Here’s how to speak up, advocate for yourself, and get the care you deserve.
01
Before Your Appointment
• Prepare a List. Jot down your symptoms, when they started, and any patterns you’ve noticed.
• Prioritize Your Concerns. Providers have limited time, so focus on your top 2-3 health issues.
• Bring Your Medications. Include all prescriptions, supplements, and dosages.
02
During Your Visit
• Be Clear and Direct. Describe your symptoms in detail and don’t downplay your pain or discomfort.
• Ask Questions. If something isn’t explained clearly, ask: “Can you help me understand why you think this isn’t a concern?”
• If your symptoms or concerns are dismissed, restate them: “I’m still worried. What else could it be?”
• Remember Key Details. Take notes, request a post-visit summary, or bring someone to help track important information.
03
After Your Visit
• Follow Up. If tests or referrals were promised, check that they happen.
• Seek a Second Opinion. If you don’t feel confident in your diagnosis or treatment, another perspective can help.
• Trust Yourself. You know your body better than anyone—don’t let your concerns be brushed aside.
Good healthcare starts with being heard. If your doctor isn’t listening, don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself—or find one who will.
Local Resources
Fitness classes:
Local YMCA Programs offering yoga and tai chi.
Community Wellness Center with strength-training classes tailored to seniors.
Meal support:
Meals on Wheels providing healthy meals.
Join Us in Celebrating Women’s Health & Community
Your health journey is unique, and our events are here to support, educate, and empower you. From expert talks on women’s health to welcoming community gatherings, each event is designed to help you stay informed, connected, and in charge of your well-being.
Explore our new events page to find upcoming opportunities to learn, connect, and take an active role in your well-being.
See What’s Coming Up:
Take Charge of Your Health
Women’s healthcare has come a long way, but there’s still work to do. The best way to take charge of your health is to stay informed, ask questions, and prioritize your care.
Call to Schedule Your Next Visit – Regular check-ups, screenings, and your Annual Wellness Visit help catch potential issues early and keep you in control of your health. Call us at (888) 290-1209 to book your Annual Wellness Visit or next appointment and stay on top of your care.
Share This Page with a Friend – Every woman deserves to feel heard and cared for. Help the women in your life take charge of their health, too!
Advocating for yourself starts with one simple step. Make your health a priority today!
