The Smart Woman’s Guide to Lifelong Wellness
As a preconception consultant and family physician who has guided countless women through their healthcare journeys, I’m often reminded of a profound truth: “A strong woman knows she has strength enough for the journey. But a woman of strength knows it is in the journey where she will become strong.”
In my years of practice at MedPro Clinic in Chennai, I’ve observed a concerning pattern. Many women, juggling multiple responsibilities, tend to push aside their health concerns. They often dismiss subtle signals their bodies send, adapting to changes until these small issues cascade into significant problems. As someone who has dedicated their career to preventive healthcare for women and children, this reality deeply concerns me.
The Dutch have a saying that resonates deeply with my medical philosophy: “Prevention is better than cure.” Through my work and research, which led to my books “A Prelude to Pregnancy and Beyond” and “கர்ப்பம் முன்னும் பின்னும்” (KARBAM MUNNUM PINNUM), I’ve seen how this simple principle can transform lives. Prevention isn’t just a medical strategy – it’s a lifestyle choice that should begin early in a woman’s life, considering the vital role hormones play in female health.
Let me share with you a roadmap for preventive healthcare that every woman should consider. Think of it as a decade-by-decade guide to wellness:
In your 20s, focus on establishing baseline health metrics: BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, blood sugar, and thyroid function. Don’t forget regular dental checkups and eye screenings – these often-overlooked aspects of health can provide early warnings of systemic issues.
As you enter your 30s, add cervical cancer screening through regular Pap smears to your routine. Your 40s bring additional considerations, including breast cancer screening and comprehensive cholesterol monitoring.
The 50s and 60s require attention to bone health through mineral density screening, while maintaining vigilance with previous tests. By the time you reach your 70s and 80s, your preventive care should expand to include comprehensive cancer screenings covering breast, cervical, lung, and colorectal health.
As both a physician and a Rotarian, I believe that understanding and acting on these basic health principles transforms every woman into not just a strong woman, but a smart one too.
Remember, your journey to health isn’t just about preventing illness – it’s about empowering yourself with knowledge and taking control of your well-being. When we prioritize our health, we’re better equipped to serve our families, our communities, and ourselves.
Here’s to every woman’s journey toward a wonderful, happy, and healthy life!
About the Author
A gold medallist physician and bestselling author, Dr. Mahalakshmi Sivaraman leads Chennai’s MedPro Clinic, specializing in women’s preventive healthcare. As Director of Youth Services at RCMT, she bridges medical excellence with community service to transform women’s health outcomes.
