Wellbeing
Women's health
We've curated our best expert insights on a range of female-related health topics to help you look after your amazing body.
Women outlive men in almost every society, but often they do so in poorer health than their male counterparts. We're here to help you live your best life, every step of the way.
Whatever your concern, we’ll try to address it. Something not here? Ask any health-related question you like to our expert team via our Ask the expert service.
Featured women's health topics
We've handpicked these articles to raise awareness of some of the top women's health issues to make sure you're fully informed and able to access support that can help you live better for longer.
Women’s health
Endometriosis symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
Affecting around 1.5 million women in the UK, endometriosis is a long-term condition where cells, similar to the lining of the womb, start to grow in other areas of the body, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
Discover more about endometriosisAgeing well
Our ultimate guide to the menopause - symptoms, self-help and treatment
Expert Nikki Porges gives the lowdown on everything you - and those around you - need to know about the menopause, from possible symptoms and treatments available, to a whole host of tips to help you be your best self through the menopause and beyond.
Discover more about the menopauseCancer
Why is cervical screening important?
If all eligible women attended cervical screening regularly, 83% of cervical cancer deaths could be prevented. Here's why you should get tested.
Discover more about cervical screeningBe inspired: what could you do?
Our documentary series, Real Feelgood Health journeys, shines a light on real people who found unexpected joy in activities that had a surprisingly positive impact on their health and wellbeing.
Find out how paddle boarding helps Lee cope with the stresses of daily life.
Our top articles on women's health
Women’s health
Menopause management – your questions answered
Registered nurse, Nikki Porges answers your questions about the menopause and peri menopause, common symptoms and what options are available to help those who are suffering continue to live life to the fullest.
Read moreWomen’s health
Alternatives to premique
In November 2016 Pfizer discontinued Premique 0.625mg/5mg and started only producing Premique low dose. The closest alternative HRT is Premarin 0.625mg and medroxyprogesterone 5mg. It will mean taking two tablets daily.
Read morePregnancy
Employment rights and IVF
What are your employment rights during IVF treatment? Our Ask the Expert team explains the general principles around taking time off and what happens when you’re classed as pregnant.
Read moreSkin
Lump above caesarean section scar
There are a number of possibilities as to what could be the cause of the lump that you have found...
Read moreMental health
Mirena coil removed
It can take up to 17 days following its removal for the entire active ingredient to be cleared from the system and any associated side effects to disappear.
Read moreCancer
Private smear test
Cervical smears (now referred to as cervical screening tests) are offered to women in order to detect changes to the cervical cells that could potentially lead on to cancer.
Read moreWellbeing
Memory and menopause
The types of symptoms you describ are all too common with an oestrogen level that is becoming lower.
Read moreWomen’s health
Female sterilisation
Female sterilisation is an effective way of preventing further pregnancies.
Read moreWomen’s health
Which is more effective at stopping periods - the implant or the Mirena coil?
There are distinct advantages and disadvantages to using a contraceptive implant vs the Mirena coil. AXA Health expert, Maria Yiangou explains
Read moreWomen’s health
Hormone medication and weight gain
As you are probably aware a prolactinoma is a benign tumour of the pituitary gland that produces too much of a natural hormone, prolactin, resulting in low levels of oestrogen in women and low levels of testosterone in men.
Read moreWomen’s health
Varicose veins and swollen legs
Varicose veins generally appear on the legs and may cause aching, heavy or throbbing sensations.
Read moreWomen’s health
I was diagnosed with a 6cm ovarian cyst
Ovarian cysts are known to change size and having blood running through them is not uncommon...
Read moreWellbeing
I am considering taking HRT for the menopause
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) provides oestrogen to replace the lack of natural oestrogen produced by the body during the menopause and alleviate the associated symptoms. AXA Health pharmacist, Maria Yiangou explains the implications of taking HRT.
Read moreWomen’s health
Can you have a transvaginal ultrasound scan during your period?
Women can have transvaginal scans at any time in their life – whether you're pregnant, going through the menopause or menstruating.
Read moreDiet and nutrition
Since the menopause I have put weight on, how can I lose it?
It is common to gain weight during the menopausal years and this usually sits in different places compared with your pre-menopausal years. Our experts explain why and offer some tips to help manage symptoms.
Read moreWomen’s health
Can I just stop taking HRT?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) contains small doses of oestrogen (and progesterone in those with a uterus) to alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes.
Read moreWomen’s health
Uncomfortable Pressure & Pain in Ovary
There are several underlying medical conditions that could be causing the pain and pressure sensation you’ve been experiencing in your ovary. The most common of these are detailed below.
Read moreMusculoskeletal
Adcal-D3 tablets – what can I eat before/after taking them?
Thank you for your enquiry into Adcal-D3 and food types.
Read morePregnancy
How to get the birth you want
Women have more choice than ever before when it comes to giving birth, and outcomes have never been so good, says Emma Cronin, registered nurse and midwife in our Health at Hand team.
Read moreChildren
From pregnancy to puberty and beyond - how do hormones affect mood?
Hormones have a massive effect on our bodies, controlling our development throughout our lives, as well as influencing moods.
Read moreEat your way to better health!
We know that our diet has a big part to play when it comes to our physical and mental health. Our diet and nutrition hub is full of articles that explain the link between what we eat and how well we feel. Take a look at our featured articles below or click on the link below to find out more.
Diet and nutrition
Womens vitamins, minerals and supplements: who needs them, when and how much?
Women are the biggest spenders on vitamins, minerals and supplements but only certain groups could actually benefit from taking them.
Read moreWellbeing
Food to fuel your feelgood
Can the food you eat really improve your mood? Yes, according to Raj Kundhi, Registered Associate Nutritionist (ANutr), here at AXA Health.
Read moreDiet and nutrition
Energy boosting foods
AXA Health physiologist and Registered Associate Nutritionist, Georgina Camfield, shares her nutrition tips to help increase your daily energy levels.
Read more