National Women’s Health Week 2025: It’s Time to Put Yourself First

From May 11–17, 2025, we’re celebrating National Women’s Health Week (NWHW)—a powerful reminder that your health matters, every single day. Organized by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health, this week kicks off every year on Mother’s Day, encouraging women and girls to take time for themselves and prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

This year’s theme: “Prioritizing Women’s Health: Caring for Mind and Body” reflects a growing awareness that optimal health includes more than just physical care—it requires support for mental and emotional wellness too.

Focus Areas for National Women’s Health Week 2025

This year, NWHW shines a light on three major areas of women’s health:

1. Menopause Awareness

Over 1 million women in the U.S. enter menopause each year, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. Despite being a natural life stage, many women still face stigma, misinformation, and lack of support in navigating menopausal symptoms. NWHW encourages women to have open conversations with their providers and seek evidence-based guidance.

2. Mental Health Support

Women are nearly twice as likely as men to experience major depression. In fact, about 1 in 5 women face mental health challenges during or after pregnancy. The growing pressures of modern life, compounded by social media and caregiving roles, make it essential to prioritize mental well-being.

🗨 Katz Institute for Women’s Health reminded us:
“Following Mother’s Day, the start of #NationalWomensHealthWeek serves as a powerful reminder for women to prioritize their physical, mental and emotional well-being.”
— Dr. Stacey Rosen

3. Cancer Prevention and Awareness

Cancer remains a leading cause of death among women, accounting for 1 in 6 deaths. Women under 50 are nearly twice as likely to develop cancer as men of the same age. Prevention, early detection, and education are key tools in reducing this burden.

🗨 Lasker Foundation paid tribute to a pioneer in the field:
“Nancy G. Brinker, #LaskerLaureate, dramatically increased public awareness of #breastcancer. The Susan G. Komen Foundation, founded by Brinker, supports research, education, screening, and treatment.”

Spotlight: Pelvic Floor Health — “Know Your Pelvic Floor”

In 2025, the FDA Office of Women’s Health (OWH) launched the theme “Know Your Pelvic Floor”, spotlighting an often-overlooked aspect of women’s well-being. Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) affect 1 in 4 women and can lead to issues with bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and mobility.

FDA OWH encourages women to educate themselves about symptoms and take preventive steps:
“It’s never too early or too late to strengthen your pelvic floor. A strong pelvic floor supports stability, comfort, and health.”

Additionally, on social media, they reminded women of allergic risks tied to personal care:

🗨 FDA Tweeted:
“Today for #NationalWomensHealthWeek, learn about common cosmetic products, such as soaps, lotions, fragrances, and makeup that can cause allergic reactions in some people.”

Taking Action: What You Can Do

NWHW is not just about awareness—it’s about action. Here are steps every woman can take to boost her health this week and beyond:

• Schedule your annual well-woman visit.

🗨 American College of Physicians (ACP) shared a timely reminder:
“#NationalWomensHealthWeek is a great reminder for women to focus on their health goals and to schedule an annual well-woman visit with an #InternalMedicine physician.”

• Get moving. Aim for 30 minutes of physical activity most days.

• Eat a balanced diet. Choose heart-healthy, whole foods.

• Manage stress. Practice mindfulness, journaling, or seek support.

• Get enough sleep. Rest is vital for immunity and mental clarity.

• Limit alcohol and quit smoking.

• Talk to your doctor about pelvic floor health and menopause symptoms.

How to Get Involved

Whether you’re a patient, provider, or public health advocate, you can join the movement:

• Share resources from the FDA’s Knowledge and News on Women’s Health (KNOWH) campaign.

• Use the #NWHW2025 hashtag on social media to raise awareness.

• Explore the NWHW 2025 Toolkit, filled with messages, graphics, and outreach materials.

A National Commitment to Women’s Health

In the words of national leaders, this week represents a broader movement to ensure equitable, affordable care for all women:

“This week, we reaffirm our commitment to improve women’s health so that they may live fuller and healthier lives… ensuring all generations of American women thrive and continue to drive the success of our Nation.”
— From a National Women’s Health Week Presidential Proclamation

Final Thoughts

National Women’s Health Week is more than an observance—it’s an opportunity for reflection, renewal, and recommitment. Let’s use this week to honor the strength of women by encouraging ourselves, and the women we love, to take charge of their health journeys—mind, body, and soul.

For more stories, expert insights, and empowering updates on women’s health, follow OncoDaily—because staying informed is part of staying well.