6 Red Flags for Women’s Health That Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Written by: Chinonso Ahanonu
August 6, 2025

Women often juggle numerous responsibilities, from careers and families to community involvement, sometimes leading them to inadvertently put their own health on the back burner. However, recognizing and acting on “red flag” symptoms can be life-saving. Early detection and proactive care are paramount in managing health outcomes and preventing more serious conditions from developing. This article will highlight some crucial health red flags women should never ignore.

Understanding the Silent Signals

Many serious health conditions in women can present with subtle or seemingly common symptoms that are often dismissed or attributed to less severe causes. Being aware of these potential warning signs is the first step toward seeking timely medical attention.

Persistent Fatigue and Shortness of Breath
While daily stressors can certainly cause fatigue, persistent, unexplained exhaustion, especially when accompanied by shortness of breath during light activity, can be a red flag for cardiovascular (heart) or lung disease. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women, yet symptoms can differ from those typically experienced by men.

Women may experience shortness of breath, back, neck, jaw, or stomach pain, nausea, lightheadedness, and cold sweats, rather than the classic crushing chest pain. If these symptoms are unusual for you, seeking prompt medical evaluation is crucial. Ignoring them could delay a life-saving diagnosis, such as a heart attack or other cardiac issues. It’s essential to understand that early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for heart conditions.^1,2

Unexplained Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits
Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent bloating, abdominal pressure, or feeling full quickly, particularly if accompanied by unexplained weight loss or frequent urination, could indicate ovarian cancer, which often presents with vague symptoms in its early stages.

While bloating can be common, especially around menstruation or due to dietary factors, persistent and unusual changes warrant investigation. Similarly, abnormal vaginal bleeding—bleeding between periods or any bleeding after menopause—is never normal and requires immediate medical attention, as it can be a sign of uterine or cervical cancers.^1,3

Severe or Unusual Headaches
Headaches are common, but a sudden onset, severe headache that is different from your usual headaches should not be ignored. This could be a sign of a stroke, especially if accompanied by sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, confusion, difficulty speaking, or vision problems. Prompt medical evaluation for such symptoms is critical to minimize potential long-term damage.¹
Breast Changes Beyond a Lump
While breast lumps are widely recognized as a warning sign, other breast changes can also indicate an issue. These include nipple discharge (especially clear or bloody), changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, or persistent pain. Regular breast self-exams and clinical breast exams are vital for early detection of breast cancer, the most diagnosed cancer in women.^1,4
Heavy or Painful Periods (Menorrhagia/Dysmenorrhea)
While menstrual cycles vary, consistently heavy or unusually painful periods that disrupt daily life should be discussed with a doctor. These symptoms can signal various gynecological conditions, such as uterine fibroids or endometriosis, both of which can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life and fertility if left unaddressed.^1,5
Persistent Pain During Sex
Pain during sexual intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, is a symptom that women often hesitate to discuss but should not ignore. It can be a sign of various underlying conditions, including infections, endometriosis, fibroids, or other gynecological issues. Addressing this symptom can improve quality of life and identify potential health concerns early.¹

Ask Questions, Gain Insights, Empower Yourself!

Have you noticed any of these red flags in your own health? Are you unsure whether a symptom warrants a visit to the doctor? Post your questions in the women’s health circle on the NOWINCLUDED app! You can learn from the collective wisdom and experiences of other community members, who often have valuable insights from navigating similar health concerns.

This peer-to-peer learning environment can empower you to better articulate your symptoms to your healthcare provider, understand potential next steps, and feel supported throughout your health journey.⁷

Remember, taking care of your health is an act of self-care, allowing you to continue caring for others. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Be proactive, listen to your body, and leverage the power of community to stay informed and advocate for your health.