fbpx

 Health Across Different Life Stages

 Health needs evolve through different life stages, from pre-pregnancy planning to addressing iron deficiency and managing perimenopause, understanding these changes and knowing how to support your body can make a big difference in overall wellbeing.

153552-AMC-GenWell-WH-500x360-Tile-1
153552-AMC-GenWell-WH-500x360-Tile-2
153552-AMC-GenWell-WH-500x360-Tile-3

Preparing for pregnancy

Planning for pregnancy involves more than just deciding the right time to conceive. Ensuring your body is in optimal health increases the chances of a smooth pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Steps to take before pregnancy:

  • Track your cycle – Understanding your ovulation cycle can help determine the best time to conceive.
  • Maintain a healthy diet – Eating nutrient-rich foods supports fertility and prepares your body for pregnancy.
  • Start taking prenatal vitamins – Folic acid is crucial in early pregnancy to support healthy foetal development.
  • Use a reliable pregnancy test – Early detection helps you start prenatal care as soon as possible.

Iron Deficiency

Iron is essential for energy, oxygen transport, and overall health. Women are at a higher risk of iron deficiency due to menstruation, pregnancy, and perimenopause 1 . Low iron levels can lead to fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, and weakened immunity.

How to Boost Iron Levels:

  • Eat iron-rich foods – Red meat, spinach, lentils, and tofu are great sources of iron.
  • Pair iron with vitamin C – This enhances absorption, so try adding citrus fruits or capsicum to your meals.
  • Consider an iron supplement – A good iron supplement can help restore levels and improve energy.

Perimenopause, Menopause & Iron Deficiency

Perimenopause is the transition phase before menopause, typically occurring in a woman’s 40s but sometimes earlier. During this stage, fluctuating hormone levels can lead to irregular periods, hot flushes, mood changes, fatigue, and sleep disturbances2.

One common but often overlooked symptom of perimenopause and menopause is iron deficiency. Many women experience heavy or prolonged periods in perimenopause, leading to low iron levels and increased fatigue. Once menopause occurs, iron needs may decrease, but low levels from previous years can still cause lingering tiredness and weakness.

Tips to Manage Perimenopause & Menopause Symptoms:

  • Stay active – Regular exercise helps balance hormones and maintain bone and heart health.
  • Eat a balanced diet – Include foods rich in calcium, healthy fats, and phytoestrogens (like soy).
  • Monitor iron levels – If you’re experiencing fatigue, dizziness, or weakness, check your iron levels and consider supplementation if needed.
  • Manage stress – Mindfulness, yoga, and deep breathing can help reduce mood swings and anxiety.

At Home Health Testing

At-home tests empower women with convenient, private, and quick health insights. Whether checking for a UTI, confirming pregnancy, or monitoring hormones, these tests provide reliable results.

Key At-Home Tests:

  • UTI Tests: Detect infection indicators in urine, offering fast results.
  • Pregnancy Tests: Identify hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) hormone for early, accurate detection.
  • Ovulation & Fertility Tests: Track LH (Luteinizing Hormone) levels to determine fertility windows.
  • Vaginal pH & Infection Tests: Detect imbalances indicating infections like BV or thrush.
  • Menopause & Hormone Tests: Assess FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) levels to monitor hormonal changes.

Benefits:

  • Convenience & Privacy: Test anytime, anywhere.
  • Fast Results: Many deliver results within minutes.
  • Proactive Health Management: Enables early intervention when needed.

How Amcal Can Support Your Women’s Health Journey

From pre-pregnancy planning to managing iron levels and navigating perimenopause, Amcal is here to support your health at every stage. Our pharmacists can provide personalised advice and help you find the right products to suit your needs.

Visit your local Amcal Pharmacy to explore a range of women’s health essentials, including 2San UTI, pre- pregnancy, vaginal bacterial PH test and more.

Speak to an Amcal pharmacist

References:

  • https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/contents/vaccination-for-special-risk-groups/vaccination-for-women-who-are-planning-pregnancy-pregnant-or-breastfeeding
  • https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/preparing-for-your-healthy-pregnancy
  • https://www.health.gov.au/topics/pregnancy-birth-and-baby
  • https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/iron-deficiency
  • https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/anaemia
  • https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/iron-infusion