Articles and Blogs
2024
Build your family with support from VA
VANews, December 9, 2024Every Veteran's journey to building a family is unique, and whether you're just beginning to think about options or you're exploring fertility treatments, it's important to know that VA can support you along the way. You have access to a wide range of services that can help make parenthood a reality, and more Veterans can now receive the care needed to build a family.
VA raises the bar on care for Women Veterans
VANews, December 6, 2024The Barriers for Women Veterans to VA Health Care 2024 report highlights increased satisfaction among women Veterans, with 83% feeling safe at VA facilities and 82% pleased with their providers. Improvements since 2014 include cleaner facilities, better parking, and enhanced provider training, leading to 86% satisfaction with medical knowledge. Challenges exist, but VA is addressing these through expanded hours, telehealth, childcare support, and tailored care, reaffirming its commitment to accessible, comprehensive, and respectful health care for women Veterans.
Women Veterans, armor up!
VANews, November 7, 2024Women Veterans, now is a great time to review your vaccine history and discuss with your VA health care provider which vaccines are right for you. Vaccines are a vital part of preventive care, especially as your health needs change with age, wellness, and reproductive stages like pregnancy. Vaccination protects your health and helps prevent the spread of diseases to others, including those unable to be vaccinated. Recommended vaccines include flu, COVID-19, Tdap, HPV, shingles, pneumonia, hepatitis, and RSV. Each vaccine targets specific risks based on your age, health, or pregnancy status. For instance, flu and Tdap vaccines are crucial during pregnancy to protect both you and your baby. Vaccines are safe and effective, with mild side effects like soreness or fatigue that typically resolve in a few days. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your VA provider about which vaccines to receive or avoid during this time. Getting vaccinated at VA ensures your medical records stay updated and your preventive care is seamless. For guidance, call the Women Veterans Call Center at 1-855-VA-WOMEN or visit VA's Preventative Care page. Take charge of your health today—vaccinate with VA!
Women Veterans: Lower your risk for diabetes
VANews, November 4, 2024Life after service can bring lifestyle changes like less physical activity, new eating habits, smoking, or increased stress. Unfortunately, these factors can raise your risk of developing diabetes. Women Veterans are 2.5 times more likely than non-Veterans to develop Type 2 diabetes, but prevention is possible. Diabetes happens when your blood sugar levels are too high. Type 2 diabetes, the most common type, often develops in adults and is linked to being overweight or inactive. It can often be prevented with healthy lifestyle changes. Type 1 diabetes is less common, occurs when your body doesn't produce insulin, and requires daily insulin treatment. Gestational diabetes can occur during pregnancy, increasing future risks for both mother and baby. Risk factors for diabetes include being overweight, inactive, having a family history, or certain conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Symptoms may include fatigue, frequent urination, increased hunger or thirst, or blurred vision. However, diabetes often develops without symptoms, so routine VA checkups are essential. VA offers personalized care, from prevention programs to diabetes management, including resources for nutrition, exercise, and medications. Speak with your VA provider or call the Women Veterans Call Center at 1-855-VA-WOMEN to learn more and take control of your health.
Up to 70% of women with PCOS remain undiagnosed
VANews, September 1, 2024Women Veterans experiencing symptoms like irregular periods, unwanted hair growth, acne, or difficulty losing weight may be showing signs of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common hormonal disorder affecting 1 in 10 women. PCOS can lead to symptoms such as missed periods, excessive facial hair, acne, obesity, and infertility. It also increases the risk of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, depression, and uterine cancer. Although PCOS can cause fertility issues, it is treatable, and with guidance from VA health care providers, women can manage symptoms, improve fertility, and reduce pregnancy complications. Early diagnosis is key, and PCOS is diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and ultrasounds. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medication, and support services like weight management, mental health care, and infertility treatment. Women Veterans are encouraged to seek support from their VA primary care provider for managing PCOS and associated health risks. VA offers a range of resources including gynecologic evaluations, infertility treatment, and maternity care.
VA offers compassionate care for pregnancy loss
VANews, August 1, 2024Every form of pregnancy loss comes with its own circumstances and may affect each person differently. However, you're not alone. Pregnancy loss is a common experience that many women share. VA is here to offer compassionate care and support for pregnancy loss. From connecting you to mental health resources for emotional support to offering personalized health care to help you physically recover, we're committed to being there for you every step of the way, no matter what your journey looks like.
Prosthetic options for women Veterans
VANews, July 1, 2024Women Veterans deserve the best prosthetic and sensory aids designed to fit their lifestyle and body based on their unique health care needs. VA offers comprehensive and advanced prosthetic devices, sensory aids and rehabilitation services. We know that size and appearance matter. We're further enhancing options so you can choose items that meet your personal style and body type.
National Women's Health Week
VANews, May 13, 2024Women often are the linchpins of their families and communities. Women are caregivers, professionals, partners, parents, household managers and more. Often, they put others' needs before their own, sometimes neglecting their own health and wellbeing. Women Veterans may have additional unique health needs that may require special attention. That's where National Women's Health Week comes in. Falling on May 12-18 this year, this week is a reminder to women and women Veterans to make their health-both physical and mental-a priority.
Women Veterans: Suicide is preventable and support is available
VANews, May 6, 2024Suicide has no single cause and no one approach can end it, but prevention is possible, especially when women Veterans find support before a crisis happens. Women Veterans may have unique experiences related to military service. Your health and wellbeing and exposure to trauma can increase the risk of suicide. Some Veterans also face medical and social issues that affect relationships and quality of life. VA is committed to offering a growing range of resources and a network of support for all women Veterans, including those who do not and may never seek care with VA.
It May Be Your Thyroid
VANews, May 3, 2024Women Veterans: Have you experienced a significant shift in your weight, mood, energy, temperature tolerance, periods or skin and hair? It may be your thyroid. About 60% of people with a thyroid condition are unaware but it's a common issue among women.
Black maternal health matters at VA
VANews, April 11, 2024Black women make up more than 30 percent of all women Veterans receiving health care at VA. This Black Maternal Health Week, we aim to raise awareness about the unique challenges and disparities faced by Black mothers in the realm of maternal health care and promote equitable and accessible health care.
Are you struggling with unhealthy eating patterns?
VANews, April 2, 2024Eating disorders affect many Veterans, but as a woman Veteran you may be at an increased risk. From unpredictable eating schedules and meals eaten quickly to trauma and the pressure to “make weight,” your previous military experience might affect your relationship with food today.
Women Veterans: Trouble sleeping?
VANews, March 6, 2024Women Veterans: Are you having trouble sleeping? You're not alone. Half of women Veterans experience sleep issues, but treatment is available. As women, we unfortunately experience sleep issues more often and differently than men due to hormonal changes unique to us, like premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), pregnancy or menopause. As a Veteran, you may experience mental health conditions that can also have a significant impact on your sleep.
Women's History Month: Honoring Native American Women Veterans
VANews, March 1, 2024During Women's History Month 2024, VA Office of Women's Health is honoring Native American women Veterans. VA recognizes the impact your advocacy, contributions, and sacrifice have made on our military history. Native American women Veterans have had an exemplary tradition of military service for over 200 years, overcoming adversity and serving at a higher rate compared to any other demographic, demonstrating your dedication to our country and everlasting commitment to service. Today, women make up ~11.3% of the Native American Veteran population (about 20,000), which is a higher percentage than women in all other demographics.
Women Veterans, VA may surprise you
VANews, January 15, 2024Women Veterans, you may be surprised to learn about all VA has to offer. If you haven't checked out VA in a while, things have changed. We recognize each of you are unique and your health care needs are not "one-size-fits-all". That's why VA continues to expand its services, so we can provide you with the best care possible to better fit your needs.
Safe settings and trusted care for women Veterans
VANews, January 3, 2024You belong at VA, where you have options for how you receive your care. VA understands that traumatic experiences may affect the lives and health of many women Veterans before, during and after military service. You have access to trauma-informed care at VA. Our health care staff are specifically trained to help you feel comfortable and safe at every appointment, in each exam room and across all VA medical facilities.
2023
Breast cancer care for deployed Veterans and The SERVICE Act
VANews, October 1, 2023VA offers support for assessing breast cancer risk, with a focus on veterans' concerns about toxic exposures. The "Dr. Kate Hendricks Thomas Supporting Expanded Review for Veterans in Combat Environment (SERVICE) Act" provides eligible veterans with breast cancer risk assessments and mammograms. Risk factors and the importance of regular checkups are highlighted, with a special focus on veterans who served in specific locations. VA provides resources for breast cancer screening and encourages early detection to improve outcomes.
Health care after pregnancy
VANews, July 28, 2023VA provides a variety of health care services during and after pregnancy, and we consider the unique needs that may come with being a Veteran — so you receive health care that is tailored to you.
Birth control is available at VA. Let's talk about it.
VANews, July 3, 2023Birth control is available at VA and we're here to talk about it. Whether or not you're ready to start a family, have other plans in mind, or you're just busy raising your little ones right now, we're here for you.
Women Veterans Recognition Day
VANews, June 12, 2023Women Veterans Recognition Day is a reminder that women have been an integral part of the United States military for decades.
Have you experienced harassment at VA? Here's how to report it
VANews, May 16, 2023Harassment happens more often than you may think, but it is not tolerated at VA. About 1 in 5 women Veterans have reported being harassed while at a VA facility, so VA is working to address and end inappropriate behavior. If you ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable, it's important to know what to do.
Pregnant? VA Offers Maternal Health Resources
VANews, May 4, 2023VA offers a range of services to carry you through your pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum period. For Veterans enrolled in VA health care, VA covers your care from the first positive pregnancy test throughout your whole pregnancy, and includes postpartum care and initial care for your newborn.
How women Veterans can learn about VA health care services
VANews, May 2, 2023Health care is an inevitable need for all. Women Veterans have unique physical, mental, and spiritual needs that can be met through VA health care. Health care decisions can be overwhelming, and women Veterans might ask themselves "Where do I start?" The following guide gives useful tips on how to be informed about VA health care as a woman Veteran.
New shuttle shows women Veterans they belong at VA
VANews, April 30, 2023New shuttle helps women Veterans feel more at home at VA.
Reproductive health care you can trust
VANews, April 4, 2023VA is a trusted source of reproductive health care and works with women Veterans so they can make their own voluntary and informed reproductive health decisions.
Women's History Month and the women who led the way
VANews, March 27, 2023During March's Women's History Month, we salute women who led the way in women Veterans' health care.
Don't let your brain health slip your mind
VANews, March 14, 2023Women Veterans need to know about common signs of brain health concerns and know the resources VA provides.
Seven things you need to know about VA Women's Health Reengagement Training
VANews, February 2, 2023VA Women's heaRT discusses how to apply for and use VA health care to educate women Veterans on the VA health care they earned and deserve.
Don't skip a beat on your heart health
VANews, February 1, 2023Fifteen minutes of exercise a day can help prevent heart disease. This can be as simple as taking a walk, riding a bike, swimming, or even some strength training or stretching while you are watching TV.
Women Veterans: We're here for you
VANews, January 1, 2023Women Veterans belong at VA. That's why every VA has a Women Veterans Program Manager (WVPM) who can help you connect with resources and steer you to the services you need.
2022
Holiday survival guide for women Veterans
VANews, December 4, 2022If you have ongoing mental health concerns, the stress of the holidays may make your symptoms feel worse. All these feelings—happiness, stress, sadness, loneliness—are reasonable. Give yourself permission to take a break and get help, for yourself and others. Explore useful tips and resources VA offers to help you not only survive but thrive during the holiday season.
Meet five inspiring women Veterans
VANews, November 10, 2022VA and its predecessor have provided health care for women Veterans for nearly 100 years and continue to improve services every day. On Veterans Day and the entire month of November, we pay tribute to brave women Veterans.
Trust your gut
VANews, November 1, 2022If you're dealing with IBS symptoms, you're not alone. IBS affects about one-third of women Veterans.
Women Veterans: Information for your non-VA care providers
VANews, September 20, 2022Women Veterans, if you are receiving health care in a non-VA facility, it is important to let your provider know about your military service and how that can impact your health care needs.
Women Veterans health care: Reasons to consider VA
VANews, September 6, 2022If the last time you visited VA was many years ago, or if you have never visited us, we invite you to come see why more and more women Veterans are turning to VA for their health care. Currently, women make up about 30% of all new VA patients.
Women Veterans' preventive health care resources
VANews, August 2, 2022Preventive health screenings can catch these conditions before they become worse. Some concerns like type 2 diabetes may even be prevented with regular checks and healthy habits.
Treatment for menopause symptoms available at VA
VAntage Point, July 11, 2022Are you experiencing hot flashes? Sudden mood changes? Having trouble sleeping? You may be nearing menopause. If your symptoms are making you uncomfortable, talk with your VA provider for help managing them.
Women Veterans: Relief is available for pelvic pain
VAntage Point, May 18, 2022Pelvic pain is a problem for many women Veterans. The type and severity of the pain may vary, and the cause of the pain is often unclear. There is relief for chronic pelvic pain and VA can help you.
VA supports parents and expecting mothers across America
VAntage Point, May 6, 2022Whether you are a mom, want to be a mom, or are about to become a mom, VA supports you on Mother’s Day and every day. No matter where you are in your journey, we provide health care every step of the way to and through motherhood.
Begin your journey to a healthy pregnancy at VA
VAntage Point, April 13, 2022Thinking about having a baby can be exciting and overwhelming. You want to have all the information you need — before your pregnancy — to make the best decisions for your future family. That's where VA can help.
WomensHealth.VA.gov website revamped
VAntage Point, April 5, 2022Women Veterans, womenshealth.va.gov is your guide to women’s health care at VA. This newly refreshed website has been updated to better meet your needs. Each page details health concerns specific to you and gives you clear guidance on how to access care and services at VA.
VA Honors Women on the Front Lines
VAntage Point, March 1, 2022During March, VA celebrates the women on the front lines whose commitment to service embodies the national 2022 Women's History theme: "Women Providing Healing, Promoting Hope."
Have a conversation about your risk factors for heart disease
VAntage Point, February 1, 2022It's time for a heart-to-heart-about your heart. Heart disease is still the leading cause of death and disability in the U.S. Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, lack of exercise, being overweight and family history.
Healthy habits: You have it in you
VAntage Point, January 1, 2022During your time in the service, you gained the tools you need to live an active, healthy lifestyle. You learned how to stay physically fit, eat nutritious food to fuel your body, and get good sleep. The demands of life after leaving active duty may have gotten in the way of these healthy habits. But now is the best time to rediscover your best health.
2021
12 ways to create community this holiday and connect with other Veterans
VAntage Point, December 6, 2021Holidays can be a difficult time for many Veterans. The flurry of expectations many women feel during holidays can cause stress or feelings of loneliness. This is especially true for Veterans who may be separated from friends and family due to distance or COVID-19.
Women on Guard—Protecting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
VAntage Point, November 10, 2021VA honors the unidentified brave service members who made the ultimate sacrifice. This Veterans Day, we honor the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. We will not forget the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice but were never identified or returned.
VA Provides Lactation Services for Veteran Parents
VAntage Point, September 15, 2021Deciding whether to breastfeed is a very personal decision that many parents make during their lives. There are many health benefits associated with lactation and provision of human milk to infants.
Listen to your body—MSK conditions in women Veterans
VAntage Point, September 1, 2021Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions can affect a person's muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, and joints—all of which can impact the body's movement. MSK conditions may be caused by an accident, overuse, or repetitive motions. Sometimes people can have pain without ever being injured.
Women Veterans, Work and a Post-COVID World
VAntage Point, May 27, 2021It is not much of a stretch to say that the pandemic has impacted everyone, in ways big and small. Yet, there are some eye-opening numbers about how women, in particular, have been affected.
Ending Gender-based Harassment at VA Facilities
VAntage Point, May 21, 2021When women Veterans experience harassment at VA facilities, it can affect their health. A national survey of more than 1,300 randomly selected women Veterans at 12 different VA facilities found that one in four of them reported inappropriate or unwanted comments or behavior by male Veterans on VA grounds.
She Wears the Boots Podcast: Women's health experts
VAntage Point, March 11, 2021Veterans have many of the same health care needs as non-Veteran women. Many also have health concerns unique to their military service and experiences.
Celebrating Women's History Month
VAntage Point, March 26, 2021During Women's History Month, VA celebrates valiant women Veterans of yesterday, today and tomorrow. Women have honorably served in the military for generations and continue to break barriers even today.
VA supports the White Ribbon campaign
VAntage Point, February 5, 2021Harassment is personal. It may seem too personal and scary to trust anyone. But VA wants to be a trusted resource for Veterans who have experienced sexual harassment, sexual assault, or intimate partner violence (IPV).
Women Veterans Health Care Videos
Watch videos for and about Women Veterans.
Women Veterans Health Care Outreach Posters
View our Outreach Posters.
The Women Veterans Call Center is your guide to women's health
If you have questions or can't find what you're looking for, you can call, text, or chat online with the Women Veterans Call Center (WVCC) at 855-829-6636 to get help and find available resources and services in your area. Trained women representatives can also:
- Provide you with information on enrolling in VA health care if you have not already
- Provide you with information on setting up a medical appointment in your area
- Provide you with information about your eligibility (including questions about disability ratings) and other VA benefits like employment, education, and home loans
- Connect you with your local VA Medical Center or local women's health contact who can assist in coordinating all the services you need
WVCC representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET.
