Sept. 24, 2025

This piece is sponsored by Sanford Health.

Women’s health care isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, and every person has their own unique needs. However, many women often ask their doctor similar questions. Here are the answers to some common questions women ask throughout their lives.

1. Do I have a UTI or something else?

The three common symptoms of a urinary tract infection are increased frequency of urination, feeling of urgency and burning pain during urination.

However, just because a woman experiences one or more of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a UTI. It’s best to confirm a UTI through a urine sample and treat it with antibiotics within three to four days.

2. Is this odor normal?

To avoid throwing off the balance of healthy bacteria in the vagina, don’t use soaps or creams for cleaning, and instead simply rinse with warm water. Throwing of that balance is how infections or odors occur.

For example, staying in wet swimsuits or sweaty exercise clothes can disrupt the balance and cause odor. Additionally, thongs, nylon and satin underwear, leggings and tight pantyhose can reduce ventilation and also cause odor. Women with concerns should wear plain cotton underwear during the day and loose clothing with no underwear overnight.

3. How do I know if I have a yeast infection?

Yeast infections can be irritating and itchy and typically are accompanied by a thick, white discharge. They can occur in women of any age but may be more common with hormonal changes such as the use of birth control or during pregnancy.

Tips for reducing the risk for a yeast infection are similar to those that can address odor:

• Don’t put anything into the vagina such as douches or fragrances.
• Avoid wearing wet or sweaty clothing for long periods.
• Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing.

Yeast infections are simple to treat. Most women just need to take one pill.

4. What can I do about constipation?

Constipation often is attributed to dietary habits that lack fiber, fruits and vegetables. Pregnancy and obesity also can decrease intestinal movement as well.

Try adjusting your diet and lifestyle choices to include:

• Eating foods high in fiber such as fresh fruits, vegetables, beans, peas, lentils, bran cereals, prunes and whole-grain bread.
• Staying hydrated.
• Eating smaller more frequent meals.
• Being physically active.

5. Should I take a multivitamin?

Women should take a once-a-day multivitamin. If you’re of reproductive age, it’s recommended to take a prenatal vitamin, regardless of contraception practices. And because most vitamins are water soluble, whatever isn’t needed is passed through the kidneys.

6. How much water should I drink in a day?

Generally, most people should drink about 64 ounces of water every day. You should be using the restroom often, and your urine should be clear. Not drinking enough water may result in headaches and eyestrain.

7. How old will I be when menopause starts?

While the age of menopause can vary, the average age in the U.S. is 52. It also can be medically induced at any age if a woman’s ovaries are removed.

The most common symptoms are hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Issues can include discomfort during intercourse, urinary urgency and pelvic floor weakness. Other changes may involve weight, hair, skin, mood and sleep. Symptoms of menopause typically last a couple of years, though they could last longer.

8. What are some health issues that affect women differently?

Most women are conscious of their breast cancer and cervical cancer risks, and many diligently screen for those. However, many women may be overlooking their risk for heart disease and hypertension. Symptoms can show up differently in women than in men, so be aware of those differences.

Sexually transmitted diseases can give women different symptoms than men and can spread through the uterus, fallopian tubes and the rest of the pelvic area, resulting in pelvic inflammatory disease.

Bone density testing is key to determining a woman’s risk for osteoporosis. Women on average will start losing bone density after age 30, and then it can accelerate after menopause. Incorporating weight-bearing exercises as well as calcium and vitamin D can help women retain bone density.

9. How can I try to stay healthy throughout my lifetime?

For all age groups, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet, get enough sleep and stay physically active.

Women in their 20s and 30s should get familiar with their family history to determine if early screenings for breast cancer, colon cancer or ovarian cancer are needed. Cervical cancer screening starts at age 21. Additionally, the HPV vaccine may be an option for women up to age 45. If you’re interested in having a baby, you should be taking folic acid. If you’re not, you’ll want to discuss birth control options. Practicing safe sex and managing weight are two other factors for this age group.

Women in their 40s and 50s should start breast cancer screenings at age 40 and colorectal cancer screenings at age 45. And while you may not be experiencing symptoms, it’s important to start making decisions with heart health and bone health in mind.

Women in their 60s and older should continue breast cancer, cervical cancer — until age 65 — and colorectal cancer screenings. Additionally, keep your bone health and brain health in mind by staying active and engaged.

Learn more at sanfordhealth.org/medical-services/womens.