National Women's Health Week – May. 11, 2026

National Women's Health Week
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United States
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Week starting with the 2nd Sunday of May
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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.

Want to sponsor National Women's Health Week? Learn how

Expected National Women's Health Week Deals

National Women’s Health Week is less about commercial deals and more about awareness, education, and access to care. Organizations like the Office on Women’s Health, American Heart Association, and Planned Parenthood often host free health screenings, educational webinars, and community events. Many local hospitals and clinics offer discounted preventive services during this week. Corporate partners may run donation-matching campaigns or promote women’s health initiatives. We encourage everyone to visit official health organization websites for resources and ways to participate.

Platform Guide for National Women's Health Week

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #WomensHealthWeek. Share inspiring stories of women prioritizing their health or tips for well-being.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #WomensHealthWeek. Join discussions on women’s health topics and share resources with your community.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #WomensHealthWeek. Share vital health statistics, advocate for women’s health policies, and engage in real-time conversations.

Social Media Tips for National Women's Health Week

Individuals

Schedule your annual check-up, get recommended screenings, and make time for physical activity and stress reduction this week.

Creators

Produce content highlighting different aspects of women's health, from mental wellness to preventive screenings, sharing actionable advice.

Brands

Launch an awareness campaign, partner with a women's health organization for a donation drive, or offer health-focused content and resources.

Organizations & Brands for National Women's Health Week

  1. Office on Women's Health

    A division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the OWH was established in 1991. It works to improve the health and well-being of all women and girls through policy, education, and innovative programs.

  2. American Heart Association

    Founded in 1924, the AHA is a leading force in cardiovascular health. Its 'Go Red for Women' campaign specifically addresses heart disease in women, raising awareness and funding research.

  3. Planned Parenthood

    Established in 1916, Planned Parenthood is a non-profit organization that provides reproductive health care in the United States and globally. They offer a wide range of services, including screenings and education.

  4. Athleta

    Founded in 1998, Athleta is a Gap Inc. brand specializing in athletic apparel for women and girls. They promote women's empowerment and well-being through initiatives like their 'Power of She' campaign.

  5. OLLY

    Founded in 2014, OLLY is a wellness brand known for its gummy vitamins and supplements. They offer specific product lines tailored to women's health needs, including prenatal and menopause support.

  6. Thinx

    Founded in 2013, Thinx revolutionized the period care industry with its absorbent underwear. The brand is dedicated to breaking taboos around menstruation and promoting women's health education.

  7. Hologic

    A leading medical technology company founded in 1985, Hologic develops and supplies diagnostics, medical imaging systems, and surgical products. They are particularly known for their innovations in women's health, including breast and cervical cancer screening.

National Women's Health Week Hero

Dr. Susan Blumenthal

Dr. Susan Blumenthal is a physician, public health expert, and former U.S. Assistant Surgeon General. Throughout her distinguished career, she has been a tireless advocate for women's health, focusing on issues like mental health, heart disease, and cancer prevention. She has held numerous leadership roles in government and academia, shaping policies and advancing research to improve the health outcomes for women nationwide.

National Women's Health Week timeline

2019
PMDD

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.

2006
Plan B

This groundbreaking med, otherwise known as the "morning-after pill," received approval for over-the-counter sales.

1969
Mammograms

Low-level radiation mammograms gave birth to the modern era of mammography.

1960
The Pill

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.

1916

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.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Women's Health Week

Local businesses can support National Women’s Health Week by hosting wellness workshops, offering discounts on health-related services, or partnering with local women’s health clinics for free screenings. Restaurants could feature healthy menu options, while fitness studios might offer free classes or special membership deals. Consider an internal wellness challenge for female employees, promoting healthy habits and stress management techniques.

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

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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

  1. Lose the stress

    Long-term stress can lead to serious health problems. Women are also more likely to develop depression and anxiety

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. Birth control benefits

    Studies show the Pill can lower the risk of uterine and ovarian cancer as well as regulate your cycle.

  5. 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

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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