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Kidney health is vital for overall well-being, as these organs play a crucial role in filtering waste from the blood and maintaining fluid balance. While both men and women can experience kidney problems, women are more likely to confront more specific challenges associated with renal illness. The reasons for these gender variances remain unknown. Women are more likely to have Chronic Kidney Disease because certain factors and conditions like urinary tract infections and pregnancy complications may put them at an increased risk for kidney damage. Given that untreated kidney disease can lead to a number of other health conditions — including gout, bone disease, and heart disease — it’s a good idea to keep your kidneys healthy.
In this blog post, we will explore various factors that contribute to kidney problems in women, common kidney conditions that affect women, and steps that can be taken to promote kidney health and reduce the risk of kidney problems.
What are the challenges unique to women?
Hormonal fluctuations
The female reproductive hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, can have important effects on kidney function. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and premature menopause may affect kidney health.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Women are especially prone to UTIs, which can lead to kidney infections, if left untreated. The proximity of the urethra to the anus and the shorter length of the urethra in women makes it easier for bacteria to travel from outside the body to the bladder, thereby contributing to the increased risk.
Pregnancy-related complications
Studies have demonstrated that conditions like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes can have adverse outcomes on kidney function during pregnancy, potentially contributing to an increased risk of developing kidney disease.
What types of kidney diseases are more common in women?
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
While this condition affects both men and women, studies suggest that women may be more susceptible to certain types of kidney damage – 14% women versus 12% men. Studies indicate that CKD is the eighth leading cause of death in women. Factors like recurrent UTIs, frequent use of certain medications (e.g., nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can increase the risk of developing autoimmune-related kidney diseases like lupus nephritis.
Prevention strategies
Regular screenings, managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying hydrated are essential for preventing or managing CKD in women.
Kidney Stones
Studies have shown that women – especially those in the age group of 18 to 39 years – were statistically more prone to kidney stones. The researchers noted that kidney stones are more likely to develop in women than men due to dietary habits, obesity, hormonal factors, and urinary tract anatomy. Pregnant women have a higher risk of developing kidney stones due to hormonal changes, increased calcium absorption, and reduced fluid intake.
Prevention strategies
Staying well-hydrated, following a balanced diet low in sodium and high in fruits and vegetables, and managing underlying conditions like obesity can help prevent kidney stone formation in women.
Urinary Incontinence and Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Conditions like urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse are worldwide problems that affect the quality of life of millions of women, potentially leading to kidney problems if left untreated. Multiple pregnancies, childbirth, aging, and hormonal changes contribute to the increased risk of urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse in women.
Prevention strategies
Pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle modifications, and in some cases, surgical interventions can help manage these conditions and reduce the risk of associated kidney problems.
Closing thoughts
While kidney problems can affect both men and women, certain factors place women at an increased risk. Hormonal fluctuations, urinary tract infections, pregnancy-related complications, and gender-specific conditions contribute to the higher susceptibility of women to kidney issues. To keep healthy kidneys, it is important to prioritise regular check-ups, adopt healthy lifestyle habits, and promptly address any urinary symptoms or concerns. Additionally, another way to protect your kidneys is to take a fresh look at what you eat. Foods that are plant-based and organic like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans and organic dairy can help you manage your kidney health.
Because having kidney disease also increases the chances of having cardiovascular diseases, early detection and treatment of kidney disease is important. By taking proactive steps, women can safeguard their kidney health and prevent long-term complications.
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