What women doctors want you to know

We’re not saying they’re better than their male colleagues, simply that some female medics may have fascinating nuggets of health advice that could benefit women. We asked 25 experts to share their vital stay-well secrets

When it comes to our health, we all like a helpful word of wisdom from someone we trust. For example, did you know that leaning back when you go to the loo can stop women getting cystitis? That's just one of dozens of pieces of invaluable information that medical experts know but don't always think to pass on. So we asked Britain's top female doctors for the inside track on women's health. Here's what they told us:

5 things you can do right now

Step outside
‘Enjoy a few moments of sunshine every day,' advises Dr Gail Goldberg, senior scientist at the MRC Nutrition and Bone Health Research Group - it helps to protect your bones. ‘One in two women over 50 are at risk of fractures caused by osteoporosis but it is never too late to take action,' she says.

Take your pulse
‘Put two fingers on the inside of your wrist and count the beats for one minute to find your resting heartbeat,' suggests GP and broadcaster Dr Gemma Newman. ‘A good score is less than 76 when you're relaxed. A high score, especially in mid-life, may mean you're unfit, putting you at higher risk of cardiovascular disease.'

Flex and squeeze
‘Flex your feet at the same time as you squeeze your pelvic floor. Recent research shows that extending the ankle joint makes pelvic floor exercises even more effective,' advises family doctor Dr Farah Ahmed.

Go to the loo - twice
If you're prone to cystitis, wait 30 seconds after peeing, then change your position and try again. ‘Double voiding gets rid of the last little bit of urine that can cause problems,' explains GP Dr Nuzhet A-Ali.

Ring your mum
‘Find out about your family health history,' says GP Dr Penelope Burgess. ‘Problems like diabetes, osteoporosis and heart disease can develop silently long before you have symptoms, and they often run in families. Around 45 is a good time to get the information (with luck, your parents will still be alive) and to give it to your doctor, because it's the right age to start screening.'

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