National Women’s Health Week champions the well-being of women across the United States, running from the second Sunday in May. This observance encourages women to make informed health decisions, engage in preventive care, and manage stress effectively. Take control of your health journey, schedule a check-up, and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
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National Women's Health Week timeline
New research shows premenstrual dysphoric disorder, a more serious form of PMS, affects up to five percent of women of childbearing age.
PMDD may also cause at least one of these symptoms: sadness or hopelessness; anxiety or tension; extreme moodiness; as well as irritability or anger.
This groundbreaking med, otherwise known as the "morning-after pill," received approval for over-the-counter sales.
Low-level radiation mammograms gave birth to the modern era of mammography.
The FDA approved pharmaceutical company G. D. Searle's oral contraceptive. Over 1.2 million would go on "the Pill" within two years. Gaining control of reproductive health was crucial for the women's health movement.
Margaret Sanger opened America's first birth control clinic in Brooklyn. This led to an arrest and conviction. Although she lost on appeal, the courts ruled that physicians could prescribe contraceptives to women for medical reasons. Her efforts led to the Planned Parenthood Federation of America.
National Women's Health Week FAQs
When is National Women's Health Week?
In 2026, National Women’s Health Week runs from Sunday, May 10, through Saturday, May 16, encouraging women to prioritize their health and well-being.
How many women are affected by common health issues?
According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, affecting approximately 1 in 16 women aged 20 and older. This week highlights the importance of early detection and prevention.
What is the goal of National Women's Health Week?
The primary goal of National Women’s Health Week is to empower women to make health a priority. It promotes preventive care, early detection of disease, and healthy lifestyle choices to improve overall health outcomes.
What are some key areas of women's health?
Key areas include reproductive health, heart health, mental health, bone health, and cancer prevention. The week emphasizes comprehensive care that addresses a woman’s entire life span.
How to Observe National Women's Health Week
Visit your doctor
Annual checkups are an absolute must for maintaining good health. If you haven't had a physical in a while, contact your doctor and book an appointment. Yes, even if you're feeling great.
Analyze your diet
Check your eating habits to make sure you're getting the recommended daily allotment of nutrients. It's easy to slip into an unhealthy eating routine. Make National Women's Health Week a time to adjust your diet.
Join the gym
Join your local gym and establish a regular workout routine. Better yet, if you have the resources, hire a personal trainer who will keep you honest.
Health & Happiness: 5 Strategies For Women
Lose the stress
Long-term stress can lead to serious health problems. Women are also more likely to develop depression and anxiety
Put a cap on calcium
There's a limit. If you're under 50, try for 1,000 mg per day. Over 50? Push it up to 1,200 mg. Calcium-rich foods include milk, salmon, and almonds.
Pap test
Check for cervical cancer every three years if you're over 21. If you are 30-65, you can get both Pap and HPV tests every five years.
Birth control benefits
Studies show the Pill can lower the risk of uterine and ovarian cancer as well as regulate your cycle.
Stop fearing (all) fats
Fats aren't necessarily detrimental to your health. Those that come from avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish are generally ok.
Why National Women's Health Week is Important
Happiness starts with good health
Healthy women have more energy to get through the day and approach life with more hope and optimism. They are less stressed and experience lower levels of anxiety. Use National Women's Health Week as a reminder to breathe.
Kids need their moms
For moms, living a healthier lifestyle and taking preventative measures means they'll be around longer for their kids. Also, kids tend to adopt their parents' habits; healthy moms are likely to have healthier kids.
Good health is infectious
When friends and family see how happy you are by living a healthier lifestyle, they'll want a piece of that happiness pie. Living and eating well shows others that they can do it too.
National Women's Health Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 11–17 | Sunday–Saturday |
