Women's health: more attention, but still not enough

For decades, men were considered the standard in medical research. Women—particularly those of childbearing age—were often excluded from clinical studies due to concerns about risks during potential pregnancies. Hormonal fluctuations, menstrual cycles, and menopausal symptoms were deemed too complex. This resulted in a lack of knowledge about how diseases develop in women and how they respond to treatments.

In recent years, awareness has been growing. There is increasing recognition of the specific health challenges women face, including hormonal issues during menopause.

Fortunately, there are developments contributing to greater attention to women's health:

• There is more research into cardiovascular diseases specifically in women, menopause, female sexual health, and risk factors during pregnancy or menopause.
• The mental health of women is receiving increasing attention in the media, among doctors, and within the scientific community.
• More initiatives and national and international awareness days are being organised to highlight women's health.
• There is a growing awareness and shift in societal perspectives on ageing. Information about menopause is becoming more widely available in the media, on online platforms, and even on social media.
• Healthcare is beginning to take menopause more seriously. There are now more menopause consultants available through GPs and gynaecologists.

While attention to women's health is growing, there is still a long way to go. It would be beneficial if traditional healthcare focused more on what women truly need and experience. For instance, by paying more attention to risk factors that manifest differently in women—such as the increase in cardiovascular diseases during menopause—or by better recognising menopausal symptoms themselves.

More research into women's health and the differences between men and women is also needed. Medical education still pays too little attention to this, even though half of all patients are women. Every woman goes through hormonal phases, and for many, these phases are accompanied by symptoms—such as those experienced during menopause.

Women's health also deserves a stronger position at the policy level, across all layers of healthcare. This would ensure that women receive the recognition they deserve and the treatments that truly suit them.

For decades, high-quality research has primarily focused on the male body. That gap cannot be closed overnight. This is precisely why extra attention to women's health is so important now.

Greater attention can prevent unnecessary suffering, workplace absenteeism, and the feeling of not being understood—simply because symptoms are recognised and treated more quickly. According to a Dutch cost-benefit analysis, this could save at least €7.6 billion.

By being aware of the different life phases, you can already do a lot for your health. Each phase requires something different. During menopause, for example, you may experience mood swings or an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. With the right information and guidance, you can support—and sometimes even improve—your hormonal balance.

Healthcare providers with specialised knowledge can truly make a difference. Many women, for instance, are told they have burnout, when in fact they are dealing with menopausal symptoms. Recognition prevents unnecessary confusion and suffering.

Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate menopausal symptoms and make this phase more manageable. Slowly but surely, there is increasing attention and education about what menopause entails and how these symptoms can affect your daily life.

During menopause, many women experience symptoms, including (but not limited to):

• Hot flushes;
• Weight gain;
• Mood swings;
• Heart palpitations;
• Joint pain.

Even after menopause, women may face health risks or symptoms due to lower oestrogen levels. Examples include:

• Osteoporosis: Oestrogen supports bone health. As this hormone decreases, the risk of osteoporosis increases.
• Cardiovascular diseases: Oestrogen protects the heart and blood vessels. As levels drop, the risk of heart problems can rise.
• Involuntary urine leakage: The pelvic floor muscles weaken further due to lower oestrogen and progesterone levels, increasing the likelihood of involuntary urine leakage.
• Vaginal dryness: Reduced oestrogen levels decrease blood flow and moisture, leading to dryness, itching, or pain in the vaginal area.

You can strengthen your health during and after menopause by making adjustments to your diet and lifestyle. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, opt for protein-rich foods and healthy fats, and avoid sugars and refined carbohydrates. Drink enough water, exercise daily, and incorporate moments of rest with practices like breathing exercises or yoga. This supports the foundation of a healthy body.

If you have severe symptoms or are concerned, talk to a healthcare provider experienced in hormonal health. Hormone therapy, for example, can help restore balance, reducing or even eliminating symptoms.

Fortunately, more information about menopause and women's health is becoming available. Online, in books, on social media, and through reliable platforms. Connecting with other women in the same life phase can also provide support. Recognition brings peace of mind and insight, helping you take steps towards appropriate help or treatment.