As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of accessible and tailored healthcare for women. From routine check-ups to managing long-term conditions, a general practitioner plays a vital role in safeguarding women’s health across all stages of life. But what should the key priorities be when providing GP care for women, and what are the most pressing concerns they bring to their doctors?
Women’s health priorities in GP care
A holistic and patient-centred approach should be at the heart of women’s healthcare. Beyond treating illnesses, GPs must focus on preventive care, mental health support, reproductive and hormonal health and early detection of conditions such as breast and cervical cancer. Creating an environment where women feel comfortable discussing their health concerns is paramount.
Top three health concerns for women
Common health issues for which women visit their GP include:
Reproductive and hormonal health: From menstrual irregularities and contraceptive advice to pregnancy care and menopause management, reproductive health is a key concern at every stage of a woman’s life.
Mental health: Anxiety, depression and stress-related conditions are increasingly prevalent among women. GPs play a crucial role in early intervention, offering both medical and lifestyle support.
Chronic conditions: Women are more prone to autoimmune diseases, osteoporosis and cardiovascular concerns in post-menopausal women. Regular screenings and proactive management can significantly improve long-term outcomes.
Health tips for women
While healthcare needs evolve with age, some fundamental principles remain the same. Here are some key health tips:
For women under 50: Prioritise regular health screenings, maintain a balanced diet and stay physically active. Reproductive health checks, cervical screenings and mental wellbeing should be key focuses.
For women over 50: Bone health, cardiovascular health and cancer screenings become even more critical. Staying active, managing weight and maintaining a strong support system contribute to overall wellbeing.
Do women prefer a female GP?
Many women express a preference for a female GP, particularly when discussing intimate health issues. This preference often stems from a belief that a woman GP may better understand their concerns and provide a more empathetic approach. However, the most important factor remains trust and comfort – qualities all GPs strive to provide, regardless of gender.
Women-focused services at Niva Medical Clinic
At Niva Medical Clinic, we are dedicated to delivering specialised healthcare services designed to meet the unique needs of women. Our women-focused services include:
Comprehensive reproductive health care: From contraception consultations and fertility advice to pregnancy and postnatal support, we offer personalised care at every stage of a woman’s reproductive journey.
Menopause and hormonal support: Our clinic is proud to have female GPs with a specialist interest in perimenopause and menopause who have completed the British Menopause Society diploma. These doctors provide expert advice on managing menopause symptoms, hormone replacement therapy options and lifestyle modifications tailored to individual needs.
Mental health and wellbeing services: Providing counselling and support for anxiety, depression and stress, ensuring women receive the emotional and psychological care they need.
Preventative screenings and chronic disease management: Routine cervical and breast cancer screenings, osteoporosis assessments and cardiovascular health checks to detect and manage risks early.
Specialised care for chronic conditions: Addressing conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis and autoimmune diseases with a multidisciplinary approach.
Close collaboration with leading experts: At Niva we work closely with specialist consultants and healthcare professionals to provide bespoke treatment plans.
Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals ensures a supportive and confidential environment, where women feel empowered to take charge of their health.
On this International Women’s Day, let’s continue to champion women’s health by advocating for better healthcare access, informed choices and compassionate medical support. Every woman deserves quality care that prioritises her wellbeing at every stage of life.
Dr Nirav Varsani and Dr Bhavika Vagani are private GPs at Niva Medical Clinic, in Stanmore, info@nivamedicalclinic.co.uk, nivamedicalclinic.co.uk
