Women's Health Guide
Following the successful launch and publication of the Men's Health Pack, the CWU Health, Safety & Environment Department recognised the need to update and produce a Health Pack for women.
Women make up nearly half the UK workforce, yet their concerns about health and safety issues, both inside and outside the workplace, are not properly addressed. The CWU supports the TUC's view that, when creating legislation or issuing guidelines, measures should be gender sensitive, taking into account the physiological and social differences between women and men that have implications for health and safety.
This guide can be used as a first step to ensure that employers consider women staff when developing health and safety initiatives such as carrying out risk assessments, planning new systems of work, work equipment or personal protective equipment. It can also be used to start raising awareness of women's health and safety concerns among members.
This health pack is a collective effort and has been produced in co-operation with the Womens Advisory Committee (WAC) and the network of Womens Officers from the Regional Health & Safety Forums around the country. We hope this pack will provide valuable advice to members, their families, safety representatives and branch officials.
Dave Joyce, Chair of the National Executive's Health & Safety Committee
Working can be bad for your health
Many work-associated activities can affect your health. In this
section we highlight some of the most common problems and suggest
how you can minimise the risks.
Hazardous substances
In a recent survey, one in five women said they were exposed to
fumes, dust and other harmful substances at work. Harmful
chemicals, including solvents, may affect fertility and pregnancy,
and can lead to miscarriages or premature births, as well as
increasing the risk of other diseases such as cancer. If you are
worried about substances in your working environment, contact your
safety rep.
Back pain
At least 100,000 women a year suffer with back problems because of
work.
Lifting and moving
More than a quarter of women are lifting or moving
heavy loads at work. Under the Manual Handling Regulations 1992,
any manual handling tasks you may be expected to do should have
been assessed. Following the suggestions below will help to prevent
injuries and back pain:
- Check the weight of the object, and whether the weight is evenly distributed.
- Ensure the route you will take is clear.
- Have a firm grip, using gloves if necessary.
- Get help if needed, either another person or mechanical equipment
- Lift with your leg muscles
- Keep the load close to your body
- Move your feet rather than twisting your spine
- Try to avoid lifting above your head or below your knees
Other causes
Back pain can also be caused by long drives without
breaks, sitting in low, soft chairs, spending long periods in one
position.
Coping with back pain
Your first reaction may be to take to your bed; in
fact, bed rest is bad for backs. Keep as active as possible;
swimming, particularly backstroke and front crawl, is an especially
good form of exercise for back pain. Walking, cycling (not on
racing/drop handle bar bikes), yoga, T'ai Chi and Alexander
Technique are also beneficial. Speak to your doctor before
beginning an exercise programme, or use qualified instructors who
are aware of your problem. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor before
taking medication. You may also consider consulting a chiropractor,
osteopath or physiotherapist.
Your workstation
Twice as many females as males suffer from work-related headaches
and eye strain. More than half of these workers attributed the
cause to the use of display screen equipment. Regulations require
that all workstations have risk assessments.
Help prevent stiffness, aching and more serious conditions such as repetitive strain injury (RSI) by following these basic tips:
- Change position frequently and stretch regularly
- Get up and walk around as often as possible
- If your feet don't rest flat on the floor, this can cause pressure on the backs of your thighs or knees, compressing nerves and blood vessels. Try a footrest.
- If your chair is uncomfortable, ask for a replacement
- Ideally, when typing your wrists should be loose and flexible above the keyboard.
- If you find this uncomfortable, wrist rests may be helpful.
General Osteopathic Council: 020 7357 6655 www.osteopathy.org.uk
Eye strain is a common problem in people doing prolonged, visual work. Poor lighting, blurred screen images and reflections can make this worse.
Eyes become drier and are more susceptible to conditions such as conjunctivitis. As your eyes become tired, you will find that you screw up facial muscles, which can cause headaches.
To keep your eyes bright and shiny, look away and re-focus for one-two minutes in every 20. Blink regularly to prevent eyes becoming dry. Have your eyes tested every two years. Don't sit too close to the screen; ideally, you should be 26 inches away. Under the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992, if you need to wear spectacles for looking at a display screen, your employer must pay for regular eye and eyesight tests and contribute towards the cost of spectacles. You should have your eyes tested every two years.
Laptops
Because laptop screens and keyboards are smaller and are designed
to use outside the office environment, it can be harder to maintain
comfortable and healthy working postures. Follow the guidelines for
standard workstations, but take note of the following as well:
- Avoid slouching or sitting hunched forward
- Push the laptop back slightly so that your arms rest on the table and wrists are relaxed
- Use a chair that supports your back. Sit right back with the curve sitting snugly into your lower back, and use a pillow or similar for support if necessary
- Adjust the screen brightness to suit the environment.
Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
RSI covers a number of injuries affecting the
muscles, tendons and nerves primarily of the neck and upper limbs.
There are two types of RSI: Specific Named Conditions including
carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow; and Diffuse RSI or
non-specific pain syndrome. This is where there is no clear-cut
diagnosis but a range of symptoms exist. Symptoms include aches,
pain, swelling, numbness, tingling, weakness and cramps. With
diffuse RSI there may be no obvious symptoms. People who work with
display screen equipment may develop RSI, but other activities -
such as text messaging - can also lead to the condition. RSI is
caused by a combination of overuse and repetition, awkward or
static posture and insufficient recovery time, and stress is often
a factor. It is preventable and treatable, especially if early
warning signs are heeded. If you develop any of the symptoms of RSI
take action on prevention. If symptoms persist seek treatment.
Prevention
Follow the guidelines above on workstations and laptops Also:
- Cut down on repetitive tasks where possible
- Maintain good posture and fitness
- Try to keep stress levels down
- Try to avoid relying on your mouse; use keyboard shortcuts instead
- If you think your workload may be contributing to RSI, talk to your manager or your safety rep
- If you have been diagnosed with RSI, treatment can include physiotherapy, the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, chiropractice and osteopathy.
- Complementary therapies such as Alexander Technique and Yoga can also be effective.
- Repetitive Strain Injury Association (RSIA): 0800 018 5012
www.rsi.websitehosting-services.co.uk
Your Safety Rep
Safety reps have a legal right to consult with
management over safety issues. They represent members, inspect
workplaces and investigate problems. They also have the right to
all relevant information from the management, including any risk
assessments that have been carried out on women workers. By using
these rights, safety reps can help to make women's working
environments safer and healthier.
Safety reps can work towards improving women's health and safety at work by: raising the health and safety problems women face at work with employers; encouraging women to attend training courses and to become reps; and mounting health and safety campaigns aimed at women.
Be honest about your health
Women who are busy both with demanding jobs and
family care often neglect their own health. They may rush a child
to the doctor but will struggle on without medical help themselves.
Sometimes this can result in serious problems developing which
could have been prevented by early treatment.
Women may also fear an unsympathetic or indiscreet reaction from line managers and employers. You have a right to complete confidentiality.
Remember you are entitled to time off because of illness. If you are concerned about your absence record, or if you have an underlying health problem, talk to your safety rep.
Many conditions are now covered by the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA), including asthma, diabetes and, in some cases, cancer. This means you have some protection against dismissal because of your health problems.
Women who experience ill health during pregnancy have full protection for all pregnancy-related absences. It is important you report to your manager if your absences are pregnancy related and, if you require a longer period of sick leave, ensure your doctor makes the cause of absence clear on the sick certificate. None of these absences should be counted towards attendance procedures. If you have any concerns, speak to your safety rep.
Women tend to use sick leave to cope with family emergencies. It is very important to ask for special leave - which you are entitled to - rather than using sick leave.
Respect yourself
In order to stay healthy, you need to respect your
body in a number of ways.
Diet
*Breads and cereals
*Fruits and vegetables
*Beans and lentils, tofu.
Try to cut down on fats, added sugar and artificial additives
The sections that follow suggest healthy diets to deal with
particular problems, eg premenstrual syndrome and osteoporosis.
Keeping fit
A small amount of exercise will make a difference
to your health. Simply be active for 30 minutes a day, three times
a week; brisk walking is a good choice. Those 30 minutes do not
have to be continuous - you can do them in two sessions of 15
minutes to receive all the health benefits.
Smoking
The dangers of smoking are well-known today, but
that doesn't make it any easier to give up. People smoke for
many reasons and your habit may be the result of an underlying
problem such as depression and anxiety. If you are pregnant, or
trying for a baby, it is especially important you try to stop.
Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage,
haemorrhaging and cot death, and your baby is likely to be born
lighter (and therefore likely to have various problems) and even
suffering from nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Passive smoking can
also be bad for you and your baby.
There are now many sources of support to help you stop. The NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 169 0 169 can give you practical advice on how to begin the process.
NHS Pregnancy Smoking Helpline: 0800 169 9 169 www.givingupsmoking.co.uk
Alcohol
Drink affects women differently from men. Because
women develop higher blood alcohol levels, the toxic effects have
more impact on their internal organs, including the liver, heart
and brain. Women are also more vulnerable to developing
alcohol-related diseases; research shows the minimum amount of
alcohol necessary to produce cirrhosis in a woman's liver is
two to three times less than in a man. This doesn't mean you
shouldn't enjoy a drink! Just follow these guidelines: Women
can drink up to two or three units a day without significant risk
to their health. A unit is half a pint of standard strength beer, a
small glass of wine or a pub measure of spirit.
Spread your drinking and avoid binge drinking. If you have drunk too much, avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours afterwards to give your body time to recover.
If you're pregnant, or trying to become pregnant, you should drink no more than one or two units of alcohol, once or twice a week. Because alcohol can reduce the ability to conceive, and excessive drinking can lead to early miscarriage. Women who are breastfeeding should avoid drinking alcohol just before a feed. This is because the alcohol can pass to the baby in through breast milk.
Alcoholics Anonymous: look in your local phone directory, or
call 01904 644026 www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
Drugs
It's not only illegal drugs - such as cannabis, ecstasy,
cocaine and heroin - that can adversely affect your body.
Prescription drugs, including tranquilisers (with brand names such
as Valium and Ativan), can cause problems, too. And recently, the
problem of addiction to over-the-counter painkillers has been
highlighted.
Working while under the influence of drugs - even those your doctor has prescribed - can be dangerous, to yourself and others.
If you are concerned about your own, or somebody else's, drug use, contact the National Drug Helpline, in confidence, on 0800 77 66 00.
Reproduction issues
Women have to deal with particular health issues related to
reproduction, from premenstrual syndrome to osteoporosis. This
section looks at problems you may experience and how to deal with
them.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
PMS can be debilitating. Common symptoms are feeling irritable,
tired, and bloated before your period, while some women experience
extreme emotions such as depression and aggression. Although the
causes of PMS are not known, it is thought to be a response to
changes in the menstrual cycle, when hormone levels are constantly
altering.
There are many ways to alleviate symptoms:
- Tiredness and irritability can partly be caused by fluid retention. Drink fewer and smaller cups of tea, cut down on salt. Eat more cucumber, prunes, bananas and oranges, and try herbal teas such as rosemary or raspberry leaf. Vitamin B deficiency may also be a cause. Eat B-rich foods such as yeast extract (Marmite), wholemeal bread and brown rice.
- You may experience headaches and depression, too, because of changes in the levels of progesterone and oestrogen. Evening primrose oil - available from chemists - may help, and some women take the contraceptive pill. If you are considering the latter, talk to your doctor and be aware of the potential side effects.
- Increased appetite and lethargy may be due to low blood sugar
or tiredness.
Eating sweet things will make it worse. Try to have a more healthy diet, including plenty of fruit and vegetables and fibre (wholemeal bread and pasta and potatoes). Cut down on red meats, fats, sugar, refined and processed foods.
Tension
Try relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises and yoga.
Swimming and dance classes, as well as being enjoyable, can also
help you relax.
Period pain
When the womb contracts to expel its lining - menstrual blood - it
needs calcium and oxygen. Calcium is found naturally in foods such
as milk, tuna and cheese.
Oxygen intake increases with exercise, so is a good way of relieving cramps.
Running, swimming, deep breathing should all help (so when your daughter asks for a note excusing her from PE, don't give her one!). Strengthening tummy muscles by doing sit-up exercises will also ease discomfort.
Endometriosis
This is a condition in which the of cells that normally line the
womb are present in spots and clusters elsewhere in the body. They
are commonly found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes and on the
peritoneum (the lining that covers the tubes, womb and supporting
ligaments). Endometriosis can also appear as cysts, known as
'chocolate cysts'. In rare circumstances it is found in
other parts of the body such as the lungs and kidneys.
Endometriosis is benign (harmless) and does not lead to cancer of
the womb or ovaries.
Towards the end of the menstrual cycle, if a pregnancy has not
occurred, the levels of oestrogen and progesterone hormones drop
and the thickened endometrium is then released, resulting in a
period. Spots of endometriosis elsewhere in the body also respond
to these hormones by releasing chemicals, which cause local
inflammation leading to pain. Sometimes the body will try to
protect itself and cover the inflamed area with scar tissue.
Unfortunately, this scarring can also occur on the fallopian tubes
and ovaries, causing infertility.
There may be no symptoms at all but the most common are:
- Painful and/or heavy periods
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Painful ovulation
- Infertility
- Pelvic pain
- Blood from the back passage
- Coughing up blood (this is rare and caused by endometriosis in the lungs)
- Other symptoms include tiredness and low energy levels, insomnia, mood swings and depression, premenstrual tension and back pain.
If you have any of these symptoms, you should consult your doctor straight away. Ask to be referred to a gynaecologist with expert knowledge of endometriosis.
Polycystic ovaries (PCO)
The term PCO covers a range of conditions, from a
few benign cysts on the ovaries, to the extreme of polycystic ovary
syndrome (PCOS, also known as Stein-Leventhal Syndrome). Symptoms
vary dramatically from woman to woman, with some having none at
all, going undiagnosed for many years. During the menstrual cycle
the egg develops in a follicle (cyst) inside the ovary. At
ovulation, the follicle bursts and releases the mature egg. In many
women with PCO the egg doesn't mature fully and the follicle
does not rupture. Follicles accumulate over time to cause multiple
tiny cysts which can fill the ovaries.
Symptoms include:
- Irregular or absent periods which, when they do appear, may be long and/or heavy
- Bleeding between periods
- Difficulty in conceiving
- Unwanted hair in places such as the face, chest, abdomen, back, arms and legs
- Acne, either on the face or back
- Obesity, although it is not known if this is a symptom or a cause
- Pelvic discomfort
If your symptoms are very mild, you may not realise that something is wrong until you have difficulty in conceiving. PCO is usually diagnosed from the results of blood tests and an ultrasound scan. Because this condition is so poorly understood, your doctor may not diagnose PCO. If you feel this to be the case, ask to be referred to a gynaecologist.
There is no cure for PCO at present, but symptoms can often be
controlled: The contraceptive pill can relieve a number of
symptoms, including acne and unwanted hair.
If you have reservations about taking the pill trying bleaching or
waxing unwanted hair, or losing weight if necessary. Antiandrogen
drugs may remove unwanted hair. Insulin-sensitising drugs may
alleviate symptoms such as acne and help regulate periods.
The removal of both ovaries usually ends all symptoms. This is normally carried out only if the woman does not want to have any more children. However, it may be possible to have your eggs removed and frozen for use in the future. If you know you have PCO and you are having difficulty conceiving, there are several treatments to consider and you should see an infertility specialist to discuss which is best for you.
Some women with PCO do not respond to the insulin produced by their own body, which can lead to diabetes in later life. If you have the condition you should have your blood sugar checked every two years or so by your doctor.
Polycystic ovaries (PCO) and infertility
Verity, The Polycystic Ovary Self-help Group 30
Charlton House, Charlton Street, London NW1 1HH. Send an SAE for
more information.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Association
US-based organisation. Website provides information
and message boards www.pcosupport.org
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
TSS is a rare but potentially serious disease that has been
associated to tampon use. In rare cases it can be fatal. TSS is
believed to be caused by toxin-producing strains of the
staphylococcus aureus bacterium, found most commonly on the skin,
in the nose, armpit, groin or vagina. In a small number of people
certain strains of the bacterium produce toxins that cause TSS.
Most people have antibodies in their bloodstream to protect them from the toxin, but many do not. TSS can affect anyone - men, women or children. Some cases are caused by infections following insect bites, burns or surgery. About half of reported cases are associated with women using tampons.
The link between TSS and tampon use is not clearly understood. However, research shows the risk of tampon-related TSS is associated with absorbency - the higher the absorbency the higher the risk.
Early symptoms are similar to flu: headache, sore throat, aching muscles and high temperature. Later symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, a rapid drop in blood pressure, dizziness, faintness, sunburn-like rash (especially on hands and feet), disorientation and possible organ damage.
Prevention
- Eliminate the risk by not using tampons
- Avoid using high-absorbency tampons; use the lowest absorbency you can
- Change tampons every few hours
- Alternate sanitary towels and tampons
- Never use tampons overnight - switch to sanitary towels
- Keep tampons clean and dry
- Avoid using tampons that contain rayon
- Be sure to remove the last tampon at the end of each period
- Do not use tampons if you have thrush, if you have had vaginosis within the last year or if you have any infected cuts or sores on your hands.
- If symptoms appear remove the tampon and seek immediate medical attention.
Don't worry that you may be wasting doctors' time - it is essential to get medical help quickly for TSS. With early diagnosis, TSS can generally be effectively treated with antibiotics and other medicines to counteract the symptoms. If you have daughters who menstruate, make sure that they know the risks, too.
Women's Environmental Network
Campaigns on environmental and health issues, including TSS. Tel: 020 7481 9004 Web: www.wen.org.uk
Pregnancy
The best way to ensure you have a safe and healthy
pregnancy is to attend all appointments with your midwife, doctor
and hospital. This will ensure your baby's progress is closely
monitored and the risk of potentially serious conditions such as
pre-eclampsia developing are spotted.
You have a legal right to time off work to attend these appointments, as well as antenatal classes, which may be organised by your local health trust or by organisations such as the National Childbirth Trust (NCT). If you are having difficulty getting time off, or you are concerned your working conditions may be affecting you during pregnancy, speak to your manager or safety rep.
Association for Post-Natal Illness: 020 7386 0868 www.apni.org. CHILD - National Infertility Support Network Provides information and support to people experiencing infertility, as well as promoting awareness 01424 732361 www.child.org.uk. National Childbirth Trust 08709 908040 www.nctpregnancyandbabycare.com
Menopause
The menopause is when menstruation finally stops - commonly assumed to be around 50, but often much earlier. The reduction in hormone levels, which occurs at this time, can create problems for some women. Not all women experience problems but, for those who do, some of the symptoms include:
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Dryness of the vagina
- Osteoporosis or brittle bones
A healthy diet and plenty of exercise are very important during the menopause. Hot flushes are caused by hormonal changes in the body; not much can be done to prevent them other than trying to keep cool. Remember they are not as noticeable to others as they are to you and are certainly nothing to be embarrassed about. Vaginal dryness can be tackled with lubricating jelly (eg KY Jelly) available from chemists, or by asking your doctor for a lubricating cream. Don't be embarrassed about going to your doctor
Hormone replacement
therapy
You are entitled to ask your doctor about HRT. This is administered
by pill, injection, skin patch or vaginal cream and may help reduce
or prevent loss of bone density (which can lead to osteoporosis),
hot flushes, perspiration, vaginal dryness, moodiness and insomnia.
Some women may also be prescribed HRT for protection against
osteoporosis and heart disease.
Many women have no side effects but HRT may cause:
- Breast tenderness and fluid retention
- Increase in gallbladder disease
- High blood pressure
- Monthly withdrawal bleeding
Before recommending HRT your doctor will give you a health check and you will need regular checks while using it. Some women need HRT for several months, others require longer treatment.
Extensive research has been done on links between HRT and a higher risk of breast cancer. There is no conclusive evidence. It is vital you discuss this with your doctor and you take the lowest dose that relieves your symptoms.
Women's Aid: 08457 023 468 www.womensaid.org.uk
Health checks
It can be difficult to spare the time for screening
when you are busy at work but the CWU is committed to seeking
agreements that result in time off work for women to attend cancer
screening clinics.
Breast cancer
Breast cancer affects one in nine women in England
and Wales at some time, resulting in 13,000 deaths each year. Most
cases - 80% - occur in post-menopausal women (Office for National
Statistics, 1999). If it is caught early, it is easier to
treat.
It is therefore vital that you understand how to examine your breasts. (You can also ask your doctor to show you how to do this.) When? Once a month, preferably straight after your period. How? Start by lying flat on your bed, with your left hand behind your head, using your right hand to examine your left breast. Begin at the nipple using the flat part of your fingers - not the tips - and make small circular movements around your breast spiralling outwards. Then bring your arm down and use the same small circular movements to feel up to your armpit, then up to your collarbone and to the middle of your chest.
Repeat on your right breast. Then stand up and look at your breasts in the mirror. Get to know how they feel and look.
What am I looking for?
- Changes in size and shape
- Unusual dimpling or puckering in either breast
- Veins standing out n Changes in skin texture or skin rash
- Unusual lumps or swelling
If you find any of these, don't panic! Most lumps are harmless, particularly in young women. But you must see your doctor immediately. Most successfully treated cancers have been detected by women who have examined their own breasts.
When you turn 50 you will probably be asked to have a mammography. This is a form of screening done by x-ray, normally used only on women over 50, as the monthly changes in breast tissue make it difficult to detect changes and lumps in the breast by this method in younger women. Mammography is uncomfortable but not normally painful, and it is a very effective way of detecting small lumps at a stage when they are more easily treatable. If you have any family history of breast cancer, it is important regular screening is carried out as well as self-examination.
NHS Direct
Advice on all aspects of healthcare, including
cancer screening, healthy eating and sexually transmitted
infections 0845 4647 (24 hours) www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
Cervical cancer
Cervical cancer kills between 1,100 and 3,000 women each year in
England and Wales. But it is preventable; according to the Imperial
Cancer Research fund, the UK's cancer screening programme is
steadily reducing this number. Early treatment can ensure women are
still able to have children.
Most doctors' surgeries and health practices now provide a women's health screening service. Usually you will be sent a letter inviting you to attend for cervical screening but, if not, you should ask your doctor.
The screening, which should be done at least every three years, involves a smear being taken from the cervix - the opening to the womb at the top of the vagina. This smear is analysed, and you should be notified of the result of the test by your doctor and told if any follow-up smears or treatment are necessary.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
STIs are contracted through having sex. STIs don't just 'go
away'; they must be treated, often quite easily. Some do not
have any signs or symptoms, and so may go undetected, but can
affect future fertility. Commonly known STIs are genital warts,
HIV, syphillis, genital herpes, chlamydia and non-specific
urethritis (NSU). Condoms offer good protection, although this is
not 100%. The greater the number of sexual partners, the greater
the risk.
Recognisable symptoms include:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Genital rashes, itchiness, sores, blisters, bumps and pain
- Burning sensation when urinating or having sex
- Frequent urination
If you think you have an STI, you can get free and confidential help from a sexual health service (eg genitourinary medicine clinic), family planning clinic or your doctor.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a common, treatable, sexually transmitted infection,
affecting 2-10% of the population. Untreated it can cause serious
problems, including Pelvic
Inflammatory Disease which can lead to an increased risk of ectopic
pregnancy and even infertility.
The infection is most common in younger men and women and the more sexual partners you have had, the greater the risk. To test for infection, a swab is taken from the cervix by a doctor or nurse. It is then easily treated with antibiotics.
Chlamydia often has has no symptoms. Warning signs include pain low down in the abdomen, painful sexual intercourse, vaginal bleeding after intercourse, flu-like symptoms including a slight fever and nausea, mild vaginal discharge and painful and more frequent urination.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a loss of bone mass associated with older age and
is more likely to develop in women after the menopause; one in
three women in the UK will develop osteoporosis after the age of
50. Affected bones have large holes and a thinner outer wall and
are more easily broken. If not prevented or if left untreated,
osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks. Many
fractures arising from osteoporosis heal with treatment, and a full
recovery can be expected.
However, some do not heal so well, and pain and difficulty using the part of the body involved occurs. This can lead to considerable disability, and elderly people in particular may become unable to look after themselves. As osteoporosis progresses, the bones in the spine collapse, the spine curves and some people may develop a disabling hunchback.
Prevention
Building strong bones, especially before the age of
30, can be the best defence against developing osteoporosis, and a
healthy lifestyle is important for keeping bones strong. Weight
training using equipment such as barbells or dumbells is
beneficial. Walking and running are also helpful.
Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. Get your calcium from a pint of milk or two small pots of yoghurt plus a 2oz (50g) chunk of cheese a day. Vitamin D comes from oily fish, enriched cereals or from just being out in the sunshine (but not too much!). Calcium supplements can help reduce bone loss in menopausal women. It is best to obtain your calcium from food, but if you cannot then consider a calcium supplement.
Magnesium supplementation is also important; you can buy combined supplements (eg Osteocare) from a pharmacist. Don't drink too much alcohol - no more than two glasses of wine a day. Don't smoke, as smoking damages bones.
If you develop osteoporosis, the severity of osteoporosis worsens with time, but the progression can be delayed and possibly reversed by good self-care and by treatment including HRT, calcium and vitamin C and D supplements.
Bisphosphonates are non-hormonal drugs; these help maintain bone density and reduce fracture rates.
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) are drugs that act in a similar way to oestrogen on the bone, helping to maintain bone density and reduce fracture rates specifically at the spine.
Women and complementary medicine
There are many forms complementary treatment that can work
alongside, or as an alternative to, 'conventional'
medicine. These can be especially effective in dealing with
women's health issues.
Acupuncture is an an ancient system of healing developed over thousands of years as part of the traditional medicine of China, Japan and other Eastern countries. It restores and maintains health by the insertion of fine needles into acupuncture points just beneath the body surface. These points are in very specific locations and lie on channels of energy. Acupuncture is extremely effective in treating a wide variety of conditions, including menstrual problems, sports injuries and lower back pain.
Alexander Technique is based on the principle that the person functions as a whole and must learn to prevent unwanted, unnecessary and harmful habits such as unduly stiffening and tightening our muscles and joints and putting too much effort and tension into our activities. The Technique can help with a variety of physical problems including back, neck or shoulder pain and RSI as well as emotional issues such as poor self-esteem, depression, anxiety, mood swings and eating disorders, personal interaction problems.
Violence and Women
Work
The greater the contact with the general public, the greater the
risk of facing violence at work. You can be more vulnerable if you
work alone or outside normal hours. It is especially important that
you are aware of specific techniques that can help you to stay
safe. Remember that these are as important in your private life as
in your working life. However trivial an incident may seem, always
report it; not doing so could put others at risk. Reporting is also
important because a complaint can be made against you by a
client.
When out and about, either at work on in your daily life, remember to PLAN:
- Prepare for the journey
- Wear sensible clothing
- Know your route
- Tell someone where you are going and your expected time of return
- Assess the risks
- Look confident
- Be alert with a sense of purpose
- Watch your body language - stand tall
- Carry a personal alarm
- Avoid risk
- Decline offers from strangers
- Keep to familiar territory where possible
- Don't make spur-of-the-moment decisions
- Try not to use unlit cash machines
- Keep a hand free
- Never assume:
"It won't happen to me"
"It's only a short journey"
"They look respectable" - Do not ignore your instincts.
Domestic violence
Domestic violence is physical, psychological, sexual or financial
violence taking place within an intimate or family-type
relationship that forms a pattern of coercive and controlling
behaviour. Any woman can experience domestic violence.
Violence against women has serious consequences for their physical and mental health. Abused women are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, psychosomatic illnesses and eating and sexual (including reproductive) problems. It is estimated that one in four women will experience domestic violence at some time in their lives.
The effects on children are also devastating. For example, 70% of children staying with their mothers in refuges have been abused by their father. In one survey, three-quarters of mothers said their children had witnessed domestic violence, 33% had seen their mothers beaten up and 10% had witnessed sexual violence.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, contact the Women's Aid National Domestic Violence Helpline on 08457 023468.
Good Mental Health
Stress is the second most commonly reported condition among working
women, while depression occurs in women twice as often as in men.
Rates of seasonal affective disorder, chronic depression, and
eating and anxiety disorders are also higher.
Stress
Stress is the natural physical reaction to dangerous or demanding
incidents, producing a response involving nearly every organ in the
body. Once the crisis is resolved the stress is resolved and mind
and body return to normal. Problems arise when the sources of
stress are constant and there is no time to rest and wind down
between them.
For women, stress is a particular problem because they may have several sources of stress; as well as working, they often bear most of the responsibility for organising childcare and looking after the home.
We all react to stress differently. While some women seem to cope happily with large families and demand-ing jobs as well as a number of other activities, others with apparently fewer demands on them may be severely affected by stress.
Symptoms
Symptoms of stress are wide-ranging but can include
panic attacks, headaches, sleeplessness, tiredness, frequent colds
and infections, changes in eating habits and irritability.
Untreated, stress can lead to long-term problems such as heart
disease and ulcers.
Treatment
Serious stress problems may require medical
treatment and counselling but there are things that you can do to
help yourself:
- A visit to the pool or gym, or even a walk at the end of the day, will help reduce stress and help you sleep
- Try to have some time to yourself each day
- Try at spend time doing something you enjoy each week; being able to think about something else is a good way of reducing the problem
- Try relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga
- Pace yourself by tackling one task at a time
- Don't suffer alone. If you are feeling stressed it is important to talk to someone. Talking with women friends at work can be helpful, but if you need more help than this speak to your safety rep who may be able to suggest solutions to particular problems, eg emergency childcare.
If you are ill as a result of stress it is important to see your doctor and get help, which may include time off to recover (some medical practices now run classes in coping with stress). It is important to ensure that your manager realises you are suffering from a stress-related illness, and it is particularly important to let them know if the stress is work related.
Remember that stress is one of the biggest problems in the workplace today; you are not alone. The CWU is seeking to address many of the issues that cause stress. If you feel there are issues that should be taken up by the CWU, see your local representatives and discuss the problem with them.
Depression
Everyone has times when they feel unhappy and pessimistic. Although
many people attribute their feelings of sadness or lethargy to the
onset of depression, it's important to understand that medical
professionals have specific indicators that they use to make a
diagnosis of 'clinical' depression. Clinical depression
describes a condition serious enough to require professional
intervention, which lasts more than two weeks and is usually not
caused by anything external.
Symptoms:
- Irritability
- Sadness
- Exhaustion
- Low self-image
- Destructive self-criticism
- Shame
- Guilt
- Manic behaviour
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
Possible causes include your genetic makeup, personal experience, chemical imbalances in the brain and extreme stress
It is important to know that you can get help for depression, starting with your doctor. Based on your individual circumstances, your doctor may advise treatment that includes therapy, antidepressant medication or both.
Depression Alliance: 020 7633 0557 www.depressionalliance.org
'Baby blues' or postnatal depression?
A week or so of the baby blues after childbirth is fairly normal.
If the signs of depression last longer, it is possible that
postnatal - or post-partum - depression is developing; get medical
help immediately. Postnatal depression can be treated
successfully.
Symptoms include:
- Excessive sleep
- Increased crying
- Feelings of worthlessness; feeling like a 'bad mother'
- Low energy level
- Sudden weight fluctuations
- Suicidal thoughts
- Thoughts of hurting the baby
Association for Post-Natal Illness: 020 7386 0868 www.apni.org
Other forms of depression in women
Anxiety disorders occur frequently in women, sometimes manifested
in obsessive cleanliness or panic attacks. Often, anxiety disorders
go hand in hand with depression.
Women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) suffer the symptoms of depression during this pre-menstrual period solely or mostly at this time. PMDD is a debilitating condition affecting 3-5% of women, and manifests itself as a combination of depression and anxiety coupled with physical and mental symp-toms. Unfortunately, women often mistake PMDD for PMS (premenstrual syndrome) and don't seek help.
A woman who feels depressed and thinks she may also be entering menopause should be evaluated by a gynaecologist to determine whether her symptoms could be related to the hormonal transition. She should also see a mental health professional, especially if her depression is severe or if she has been depressed in the past.
CONTACTS
Work and health
Hazards Magazine Provides information on every aspect of
health and safety at work PO Box 199, Sheffield S1 4YL www.hazards.org
TUC Represents almost seven million workers; campaigns for a fair deal at work, including health and safety issues 020 7636 4030 www.tuc.org.uk
Complementary medicine
The organisations listed below will help you find a
qualified practitioner
Acupuncture
British Acupuncture Council 020 8964 0222
Alexander Technique
Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique 020 7284
3338 www.stat.org.uk
Homeopathy
Society of Homeopaths 01604 621400 www.homeopathy-soh.org
Reflexology
Association of Reflexologists 0870 567
3320
Depression
Depression Alliance 020 7633 0557 www.depressionalliance.org
The Samaritans
08457 90 90 90
Post-natal depression
Meet A Mum Association (MAMA) Support
network for women suffering from post-natal depression 020 8768
0123 (weekdays, 7pm-10pm) www.mama.org.uk
Personal safety
Suzy Lamplugh Trust Works to minimise damage of physical,
verbal and psychological aggression on individuals and society 020
8392 1839 www.suzylamplugh.org
Domestic violence
Women's Aid Support for women and
their children, including a network of refuges nationwide 08457 023
468 www.womensaid.org.uk
To contact the department: healthandsafety@cwu.org
