Why women often put everyone else’s health first

Women are often the people making sure everyone else is okay. 

They’re booking GP appointments for children, reminding parents to take medication, checking on elderly relatives, comforting patients, supporting colleagues and making sure everyone has eaten before they even think about themselves. 

Whether you’re a nurse, care assistant, midwife, doctor, therapist, receptionist, unpaid carer or simply the person everyone relies on, it’s easy to slip to the bottom of your own priority list. 

The problem is, your health matters too. 

The carers behind the carers 

Women make up the majority of the health and social care workforce across the UK. They also provide a significant proportion of unpaid care for family members and friends. 

Many women aren’t just balancing one caring role—they’re balancing several. 

You might finish a 12-hour shift before heading home to care for children, support an ageing parent or help a partner with their health. 

It becomes second nature to ask everyone else, “Are you okay?” Far less often do women stop and ask themselves the same question. 

The appointments that keep getting postponed 

How many times have you thought: 

• “I’ll book my smear test next month.” 

• “I’ll get that mole checked after things calm down.” 

• “I’m probably just tired.” 

• “I’ll ring the GP when I’ve got time.” 

For many women, “when I’ve got time” never seems to arrive. 

Preventative healthcare is often one of the first things to be postponed because there always seems to be something—or someone—more urgent. 

Prevention is one of the greatest acts of self-care 

Preventative healthcare isn’t about expecting something to be wrong. 

It’s about giving yourself the same care and attention that you so willingly give to everyone else. 

Simple steps include: 

• Attending cervical screening appointments when invited. 

• Going for breast screening if you’re eligible. 

• Keeping up with routine health checks. 

• Seeing your GP if something doesn’t feel right. 

• Looking after your mental wellbeing. 

• Staying physically active where possible. 

• Eating a balanced diet. 

• Making time for rest and recovery. 

Most appointments take far less time than we imagine, but they can have a lasting impact on our health. 

You matter too 

Healthcare workers often remind patients that early intervention saves lives. The same principle applies to us. 

Looking after yourself isn’t selfish. It’s one of the most responsible things you can do—for your family, your colleagues, your patients and yourself. 

Because the people who depend on you also need you to stay well. 

Perhaps it’s time to treat yourself with the same kindness, compassion and urgency that you show everyone else. 

If you’ve been putting off that appointment, delaying that blood test or ignoring that symptom, consider this your gentle reminder. 

You deserve care too. 

Medical disclaimer 

This article is provided for general information, personal research and editorial opinion only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Preventative healthcare recommendations vary depending on your age, medical history and individual circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or have been delaying routine screening or medical appointments, speak with your GP or another qualified healthcare professional for personalised advice.