From fertility to menopause: Experts urge Nigerian women to prioritise health checks

Medical experts have cautioned that millions of Nigerian women may be jeopardising their lives by neglecting routine health checks, stressing that early detection is key to preventing reproductive and midlife health complications.

Speaking at the SYNLAB Nigeria Women’s Health Webinar, Consultant Lifestyle Physician, Dr. Eniola Afolabi-Obe, explained that midlife hormonal changes can begin as early as the mid-30s, significantly affecting women’s physical and emotional well-being.

“Perimenopause and menopause affect energy, sleep, cognition, and mood, while also increasing the risks of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. Sadly, most women approach it unprepared,” she said, urging women to undergo preventive tests such as bone density scans, cholesterol checks, mammograms, pap smears, and hormone panels.

Consultant Gynecologist, Dr. Waliyat Jolayemi, highlighted that conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), diabetes, thyroid disorders, and hormonal imbalances often go undiagnosed because their symptoms — irregular periods, mood changes, weight fluctuations, and fertility challenges — are dismissed as “normal.”

“Diagnostic tests are pivotal in early detection, screening, and management of various medical conditions. Most ill-health remains hidden because of a lack of early symptoms,” Jolayemi noted.

The experts agreed that while medical testing is critical, lifestyle choices — including balanced nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep — are equally important for safeguarding long-term health.

They urged Nigerian women to be proactive, track their cycles and symptoms, and avoid normalising abnormalities. “Take charge of your health,” they advised, “because early detection can save lives and improve quality of life at every stage, from fertility through to menopause.”