From regular check-ups to mental well-being: Experts share reproductive health checklist for women in their 20s

Are you in your 20s and wondering about your sexual health? Well, everyone's different, but for many, the 20s is the best time for self-discovery. It may include exploring new relationships, sexual interests, desires, and more.

Apart from this, a woman's reproductive health is equally important to take care of, and the 20s is the best time to do that. On World Reproductive Health Day, let's discuss how the 20s are a crucial time for women to pay utmost attention when it comes to their reproductive health. However, adhering to healthy habits and making informed choices can help one to keep fertility intact as women age.

A woman's 20s are often considered the prime years for her reproductive health. While many women may not be thinking about starting a family during this time, it's essential to take steps to maintain and protect fertility and overall reproductive health. “Early awareness and good habits can prevent reproductive health complications and ensure a smoother journey if and when a woman decides to embrace motherhood. This reproductive health checklist will help women in their 20s prioritise their well-being, says Dr. Rupali Tambe, fertility consultant at Nova IVF Pune.

20s is the time for women to check their reproductive health

The 20s are the perfect time for women to take charge of their reproductive health. By scheduling regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying aware of the changes in the body, women can prevent potential issues and prepare for a healthy future and conception.

According to Dr. Mandavi Rai, Senior Fertility & IVF Specialist, Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, “Watch out for symptoms such as period pain, irregular menses, unusual vaginal discharge, painful intercourse, bleeding between periods, or constant infections down there.”

Get timely detection for conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, or infections that require medical attention.

Ways women can take care of their reproductive health in their 20s

• Regular check-ups: Regular check-ups and follow-ups will help women monitor their reproductive health. Annual pelvic exams, Pap smears, and screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) help detect issues early. Discuss your menstrual cycle, concerns about irregularities, and contraceptive options during the visits.
• Track menses: Women should track their periods to spot any irregularities, including skipped periods, heavy bleeding, or severe cramps. A regular cycle will indicate hormonal balance, while abnormalities may signal conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis.
• Adhere to a well-balanced lifestyle: Opt for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Healthy lifestyle: Ensure adequate intake of iron, folic acid, and calcium. Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, which is vital for hormonal balance and fertility. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drug abuse to be able to maintain good reproductive health.
• Pay attention to your sexual health: Women should practice safe sex to prevent unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which can affect fertility if left untreated.
• Go for timely STI testing: In case any woman is using contraception, then discuss with the doctor.
• Getting insights regarding fertility health: It is a known fact that fertility declines with age. Hence, understanding about ovarian reserve (egg count) and hormone levels can offer insight into the reproductive health. If a woman has irregular periods, PCOS, or a family history of infertility, consult a doctor without any delay.
• De-stress by taking charge of mental well-being: Chronic stress will lead to hormonal fluctuation and in turn affect menses. It is necessary to opt for relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, and hobbies in your routine to maintain emotional well-being.
• Follow the vaccine schedule: Get the HPV vaccine, which protects against cervical cancer caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus, as per the expert's advice. Vaccines for hepatitis B and rubella are also important for reproductive health.

Mental health plays an important role in reproductive function?

Women in their reproductive age, that is, their 20s, should focus on their health along with ensuring mental well-being. Such women are advised to go for regular health check-ups as advised by the expert. Dr. Rai says, “There are some crucial tests and screenings that women should go for without fail to be able to stay healthy and hearty as they age. Women should opt for regular breast examinations; breast self-examination can be done every month, while mammograms after 30 every year to spot any lumps or changes in the breast.”

“It will be imperative for women to make sure that they opt for cervical cancer screening, Pap smear tests, and sexually transmitted disease (STD) screening for timely detection of gonorrhoea and chlamydia,” she adds.?

Other crucial tests are vitamin D, thyroid, lipid profile, and cardiac screening. Women are also advised to visit their OB-GYN every 6 months to understand their reproductive health. Take the cervical cancer vaccine and supplements as suggested by the doctor.

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