November 15, 2026, 7:08 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Enduring pain, downplaying discomfort, and continuing to function: In the hectic pace of everyday life, many women neglect their own health. In the doctor’s office, they may sometimes feel their concerns aren’t taken seriously. It’s clear: There’s still a lot wrong when it comes to women’s health. That’s why the following advice from doctors to their wives, sisters, friends, mothers, and daughters is so valuable.
Don’t Endure Discomfort for Years
Prof. Dr. Dagny Holle-Lee, senior physician at the Neurology Clinic and migraine specialist, says: “My most important advice to women: Take your own discomfort as seriously as you would the discomfort of your children, partner, or parents. I often see women in my practice who endure their discomfort for years because they think they shouldn’t make a fuss or just need to keep functioning.” The expert also emphasizes another point regarding women’s health: “Not every discomfort that doesn’t have an immediate explanation is automatically psychological. Of course, stress and psychological burdens can influence physical symptoms. But they shouldn’t become a hasty explanation just because a diagnosis isn’t immediately clear. If you feel your discomfort isn’t being taken seriously enough, ask questions and, if necessary, seek a second opinion.”
Be Friendly but Persistent With Your Doctor
Dr. Carsten Lekutat, a specialist in general medicine, also believes it’s important to stand up for yourself at the doctor’s office. His advice: “During doctor visits, women should politely but firmly insist that diagnostic considerations are thoroughly pursued. It shouldn’t just end with, ‘Rest a bit and wait for it to get better.’ Instead, think beyond possible psychosomatic causes and continue with diagnostics. Friendly persistence is a good idea.”
Pain Isn’t Just Part of Being a Woman
This is especially true in gynecological matters. Here, both patients and doctors too often believe that certain discomforts in women are simply normal.
Gynecologist Dr. Konstantin Wagner, who educates about women’s health on social media, emphasizes: “Don’t let anyone convince you that pain or significant limitations in quality of life are just part of being a woman. Acquire good knowledge yourself: No one knows your body better than you do. If discomfort repeatedly occurs or something changes, it should be medically clarified. And if you feel your discomfort isn’t being taken seriously, it’s absolutely legitimate to seek a second medical opinion.”
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Take Preventive Care and Body Signals Seriously
Diabetologist and endocrinologist Prof. Dr. Susanne Reger-Tan often sees women putting their health on the back burner. They should address it sooner rather than later. “My advice is to take the time to listen to your body’s signals and, if you suspect a health problem, have the courage and time to address it and seek medical advice,” the doctor emphasizes. “And of course: Attend preventive check-ups.”
Clarify Allergies and Protect Airways
Prof. Dr. Marek Lommatzsch, a specialist in internal medicine, pulmonology, and allergology, offers another perspective. He explains: “In my field, I would advise clarifying allergies early and addressing them with medical help. I’ve also clearly recommended to my daughter not to start habits that can damage organs—like smoking, vaping, or e-cigarettes. All of these also attack the airways. And thirdly, I recommend physical activity and a healthy diet. Many people may be tired of hearing it, but it can make a huge difference.”