Women’s health is about much more than simply avoiding disease. It reflects a woman’s physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being throughout every stage of life — from adolescence and the reproductive years to pregnancy, midlife, menopause, and older age. Because women experience distinct biological changes while also carrying multiple social roles, personalized care and a strong focus on prevention are especially important.
Health is also shaped by both biological and social factors. In many societies, women and girls face greater health risks because discrimination and unequal power dynamics limit their access to quality care and life opportunities. Social norms that restrict education and employment, define women primarily through their reproductive roles, and expose them to violence further undermine their overall well-being.
Although poverty affects the health of all people, its burden is often heavier on women and girls. This can be seen in issues such as malnutrition from unequal food distribution, as well as increased exposure to unsafe household cooking fuels that heighten the risk of chronic respiratory disease.