The biological process of aging is complex. It plays a huge role in fertility. The link of the reproductive function and the complete female system (ovaries, uterus, and oviduct) to aging, means it’s important to maintain a healthy reproductive system. It is essential to keep your complete body healthy as you grow older even if you choose not to have a baby. That includes the reproductive system as well as all other systems in your body.
Health of a 20-Year-Old
You are probably beginning to notice changes in your body now that you are a 20-year-old. Some of the health issues to start looking for are whether or not you are at risk for breast cancer. Family legacies can lead some of us to be more at risk for this type of cancer than others.
Increased sexual activity is common with women in their 20s which makes you more susceptible to urinary tract infections. Other issues that can occur are bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. These infections are due to hormonal fluctuations, poor hygiene, and different contraception methods.
Speak with your gynecologist if you are suffering symptoms from any of these infections, so proper treatment can be started to relieve discomfort. Talking with them about a new choice in birth control may also help to reduce your chance of infections.
Health of a 30-Year-Old
Many women who turn 30 consider themselves entering adulthood. The age group from 30 to 39 are considered the prime years for women, but you have to start investing in good health habits for later years. During your 30s, your metabolism will slow down, and you may notice a new bulge around your middle.
If you’ve put off that first child, it will become harder to conceive in your 30s, but it is still possible. More women are having their first and even additional children in their 30s. Your body is continuing to move along the reproductive continuum although it is now producing about half as many eggs as when you were in your 20s.
Hormone shifts are frequent during the 30s, and you may start to notice a change in your menstrual cycle. Some months you may bleed heavier than others, and there may also be some degree of urinary incontinence. Work with your gynecologist to make sure all changes are healthy ones.
Health of a 40-Year-Old
The main change in a woman from her 30s to her 40s means she will no longer be having children or is at a higher risk for problems during pregnancy. This age is where most of us begin to move through perimenopause. It is when your estrogen levels start to fluctuate and cause more significant changes in your menstrual cycle. With the drop in estrogen during your 40s, you will notice less vaginal lubrication that can make sex uncomfortable.
A loss in your estrogen levels also makes you vulnerable for bone loss and can increase your risk for heart disease. Talk with your gynecologist for possible treatments to reduce your loss of estrogen. Speak with them about your increased risk for other cancers such as ovarian, uterine and breast, and begin a yearly checkup schedule to monitor your health.
As the years go by, everyone ages and your body will experience many changes. Your health will be much like the climate, some days will be sunny and some will have clouds. Your best chance of aging gracefully and healthy is to maintain regular annual checkups and consult your gynecologist if any unusual or painful symptoms develop.