Women’s health. Powerful stuff. Women’s Health Week 2-6 September

Jean Hailes for Women's Health is inviting women around Australia to unlock their powers for good health during Women's Health Week. The national health awareness campaign is a timely reminder to all women to look after themselves, inside and out.

Established in 2013 and held annually in the first week of September (2-6 September 2019), Women's Health Week celebrates improving the health of all women in Australia.

"Women are leading busier lives than ever before," says Brenda Jones, Women's Health Week campaign manager. "Sometimes they need to be reminded to put themselves on their own to-do lists. Women's Health Week is the perfect opportunity for women to set aside some time for their own health and wellbeing. Together, we want women to think about, and do something positive for, their health."

The Jean Hailes annual national Women's Health Survey found that only 50% of Australian women describe their overall health as very good or excellent. It also identified that lack of time is a major barrier for women to try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Women are also prone to feeling guilty, particularly those in the 'sandwich generation' caring for both elderly parents and children. Guilt can take a toll on a woman's health and wellbeing, whether it be for taking time out for herself, or for not being available 100% of the time for others.

"Health is a lifelong journey. It's unique, and each of us has different needs and paths. However, we can all make positive changes, no matter how small, that will benefit us in the future," says Ms Jones.

This year's we are busting some myths around women's health. Here are just some of the topics we will address:

• Do you hover over the toilet seat? The truth is your bladder empties itself much better when you're sitting, and your muscles are relaxed.
• Did you know that going 'just in case' - even though you went to the toilet just 15 minutes before but figure you should empty your bladder before you leave the house - may train your bladder to hold smaller amounts of urine, and can weaken your bladder's withholding power in the long run?
• Pregnancy and periods? Yes, it's possible. Although ovulation occurs in the middle of your cycle, there is no guarantee you can't get pregnant while menstruating. Also, it's important to remember sperm can live up to five days in a woman's body.
• Did you know that vitamin D plays a crucial role in your bone health? Research suggest almost 40% of women is Australia maybe deficient. To produce enough Vitamin D safely you need 5-15 minutes of sun exposure 4-6 times a week outside peak UV times of 10am-2pm. This can be simply exposing the bare skin of your hands, arms and face. Vitamin D is also available through your diet.

Join other women across the country who are unlocking their powers for good health and sign up to Women's Health Week. And most importantly, remember to be good to yourself, inside and out.

For more information visit womenshealthweek.com.au

About Women's Health Week

Women's Health Week is run annually by Jean Hailes for Women's Health, a leader in women's health for more than 25 years. Appointed by the Australian Government as the national digital gateway for women's health and wellbeing, Jean Hailes combines evidence-based research and clinical experience with practical resources and tools for women and health professionals.

Last year, more than 85,000 people took part. More than 2100 events were held across the country from Esperance to the Tiwi Islands, and more than 47,000 people received online health content.

For media

For more information, please contact Janelle Carrigan on 0409 939 920 or email [email protected].