Women’s health week- Take the Lead: Empowering Women to Make the Most of Their Health Appointments

Health is one of our most valuable assets, yet many women still feel uncertain, rushed, or unprepared when it comes to their medical appointments. Whether it’s a routine check-up, a specific concern, or a mental health consultation, taking the lead in these appointments is key to becoming an empowered and informed advocate for your own well-being. As we celebrate Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week 2025, the theme "Take the Lead" challenges us to step up and take control of our health journey by equipping ourselves with the tools and knowledge needed to make the most of every appointment.

Why "Taking the Lead" Matters

For too long, women’s health concerns have been overlooked or dismissed, whether through cultural stigma or a lack of awareness. However, the tide is changing. More and more, women are advocating for themselves in medical spaces, asking for answers, demanding thorough care, and seeking second opinions when necessary. Taking the lead is about recognizing that you are the expert of your own body and that your voice matters in every aspect of your healthcare.

It’s about confidence—confidence in asking questions, confidence in understanding your options, and confidence in being an active participant in your health decisions. When women take charge of their health appointments, they improve their overall experience, feel heard, and are more likely to receive the best care possible.

Step 1: Prepare Before the Appointment

Preparation is one of the most powerful tools you can wield when it comes to health appointments. Taking the lead starts before you even walk into the doctor’s office. Here's how you can prepare:

1. Write Down Your Concerns

Make a list of any symptoms, changes, or concerns you have been experiencing. Whether it’s a new symptom or a recurring issue, jotting it down helps you remember everything you want to discuss. It’s easy to forget important details when you’re in the doctor’s office, but a list keeps you focused.

2. Know Your Medical History

Your personal medical history and family history are important pieces of information that can help your doctor assess your current health. Write down any relevant health conditions or diagnoses, both for yourself and close family members, to give your doctor a full picture of potential risk factors.

3. List Your Medications

Whether it’s prescription meds, over-the-counter treatments, or supplements, bring a list of everything you’re currently taking. Your doctor needs this information to prevent harmful drug interactions and ensure you’re receiving the best treatment plan for your needs.

4. Research Your Symptoms

While you don’t need to diagnose yourself, doing some basic research about your symptoms or concerns can help you frame your questions more effectively. It can also help you gauge whether your doctor’s suggestions are in line with the most current medical practices or guidelines.

5. Prepare to Ask Questions

Think of questions you want to ask and write them down. This can include questions about treatment options, side effects, lifestyle changes, or anything you’re unclear about. Some examples could be:

• “What are my treatment options, and what are the pros and cons of each?”
  
  

• “What should I expect in terms of recovery time or side effects?”
  
  

• “Are there lifestyle changes I can make to improve my health?”
  
  

Step 2: Own Your Appointment

Once you’re in the doctor’s office, it’s time to take the lead. Here’s how to make sure your voice is heard:

1. Be Open and Honest

Don’t hold back when sharing your symptoms, concerns, or questions. Being honest about what’s happening with your health allows your doctor to make an accurate diagnosis and tailor the best treatment plan for you. If you’re embarrassed or unsure about something, remember—it’s your health on the line, and your doctor is there to help, not judge.

2. Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up

If you don’t understand something, ask for clarification. If your doctor uses jargon or medical terms that are unclear, politely ask for an explanation in simple language. You have every right to understand what’s going on with your body.

3. Take Notes

It’s easy to forget information, especially if your doctor is explaining a lot in a short amount of time. Taking notes during your appointment can help you remember important details. If you’re not able to write, ask if you can record the conversation or ask for written information to review at home.

4. Ask for a Second Opinion

If something doesn’t feel right or if you’re unsure about the diagnosis or treatment plan, don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion. Informed patients are empowered patients, and it’s important to feel confident in your care.

Step 3: Follow Through After the Appointment

The work doesn’t stop once you leave your appointment. Taking the lead means being proactive about your ongoing health management.

1. Understand Your Treatment Plan

Make sure you fully understand the next steps. Whether it’s taking medication, scheduling follow-up appointments, or making lifestyle changes, ensure you are clear on what needs to be done and why. If you don’t fully understand the reasoning behind a treatment plan, ask your doctor to explain it in more detail.

2. Stay Organized

Keep track of appointments, prescriptions, tests, and follow-ups. This can help you stay on top of your health and prevent missing important treatments or check-ups. Digital apps or a simple health journal can help you stay organized and track changes in your symptoms.

3. Commit to Lifestyle Changes

If your doctor recommends changes to your diet, exercise routine, or mental health strategies, commit to these adjustments. Remember, you are the one who can make the greatest impact on your long-term health. Create realistic goals, and don’t hesitate to ask for additional resources or referrals to help you make lasting changes.

4. Schedule Regular Follow-ups

Taking the lead means staying on top of your health journey, not just during an isolated appointment. Schedule regular follow-ups with your doctor to monitor progress, reevaluate treatment plans, and address any new concerns.

Step 4: Advocate for Yourself and Others

Taking the lead is not only about your own health; it’s about being a voice for others too. Whether it’s a friend, sister, or colleague, women often feel more empowered when they see others advocating for themselves. Share your knowledge, offer support, and encourage the women in your life to take charge of their health too.

You can advocate for change within your healthcare system by supporting organizations like Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, which work tirelessly to educate and empower women in all aspects of their health.

Conclusion: Take the Lead in Your Health

Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week 2025 is all about taking the lead in your health. It’s about being proactive, informed, and confident in your healthcare decisions. By preparing for your appointments, engaging in meaningful conversations with your healthcare providers, and following through with treatment plans, you take charge of your well-being in a way that can lead to a healthier, more empowered life.

So, the next time you book an appointment, remember that you are the leader in this journey. Speak up, ask questions, and ensure you’re getting the care you deserve. Taking the lead in your health is the first step toward living your best life.

What’s one thing you’ll do differently at your next health appointment? How will you take the lead?