Breastfeeding and Pregnancy
Breastfeeding significantly benefits both mother and child. Federal and Army policies support breastfeeding among Active Duty and civilian employees.
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Pregnancy - See resources for pregnant military women, dependents, and civilians.
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Mental and Behavioral Health
Behavioral health (BH) conditions (such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder) are the second leading cause of medical non-readiness among active-duty Soldiers. According to the 2022 Health of the Force report, women appear to experience some BH conditions, such as mood disorders (largely depression-related disorders) at a higher rate than male counterparts.
When you recognize
factors that may affect your mental health and wellness (such as anger, sleep issues, and stress)
there are several resources available to help you:
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DoD Psychological Health Center of Excellence call center is available 24/7 for service members, veterans, and family members. Mental health clinicians who understand military culture can answer questions about psychological health and help you access care and resources. Call
866-966-1020.
Nutrition and Weight Management
The key to health is what and how much you put into your body. The secret to weight loss is simple (HINT: reduce your calories!). But remember it's not just what you eat - it's also what you DRINK! Also learn how
better SLEEP can improve your health and weight loss efforts. And before you take supplements, find out which ones are safe.
Screenings and Vaginal Health
Women can experience female-related health conditions and should consider getting certain health screenings. Women’s walk-in STI testing and full-scope contraceptive services are offered at military medical treatment facilities (MTF). Check with your local MTF for the designated walk-in day and hours or schedule an appointment with your provider. Learn more HERE.
Sexual Health
Being healthy sexually means educating and protecting yourself from unintended pregnancies, and avoiding getting or transmitting sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, and syphilis, are not only a growing health problem in the U.S population, but Active-Duty military personnel have been found to also have high rates as well. STIs can cause health problems for women soon after infection as well as long term such as infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease.
Click
HERE for more information on women’s sexual health and ensure you talk to your provider during your
Well Woman exams.
Violence Prevention
CDC estimates that over half of all women have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact during their lifetimes and that 1 in 4 women have experienced completed or attempted rape. Women and racial and ethnic minority groups appear to experience a higher burden of sexual violence.
Even the reported numbers are likely to underestimate this problem because many cases are unreported. Survivors may be ashamed, embarrassed, or afraid to tell the police, friends, or family about the violence. Victims may keep quiet because they have been threatened or do not think anyone will help them.
The Army’s
Family Advocacy Program helps strengthen Army Families, enhance resiliency and relationship skills, and improve quality of life.
If you need help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. In addition to resources to address concerns about Sexual Assault, DCPH-A behavioral health experts provide resources for your concerns about Domestic Violence and Workplace Violence.
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For services available through the Military Health System, visit their Women's Health webpage.
