Health through the seasons of a woman’s life
Throughout their lives—from puberty to menopause—most women will experience various health-related concerns. And in addition to looking after their own well-being, they may also take care of loved ones, whether children or aging parents. Thankfully, Proxim-affiliated pharmacists are close by to offer reassuring support when minor or major health concerns arise.
The pharmacy is often the first stop when a family member has a health concern. "Pharmacists are the health professionals who are available around the corner and who can offer a consultation without delay, and free of charge,” sums up Mireille Martin, pharmacist-owner affiliated with Proxim in Rimouski. It’s no wonder that these front-line specialists have become trusted allies for women over the years.
"As neighborhood pharmacists, we develop a close relationship with our patients. We see them grow up and get older. We accompany them through all the stages of their lives and offer reassuring health advice for themselves and their family members."
Mireille Martin, pharmacist-owner affiliated with Proxim, Rimouski
Puberty
Menstruation and cramps, contraception, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), growth spurts—pharmacists can help teenagers go through the upheavals of puberty. As medication specialists, they can prescribe drugs to relieve the symptoms of painful periods (dysmenorrhea), for example, or prescribe emergency hormonal contraception. After consultation with the patient, the pharmacist can also suggest hormonal contraception, either oral or injectable contraceptives, patches or rings. "It's a great feeling to see that girls and young women trust us and come to us for advice, especially on such personal issues," says Mireille Martin.
Good to know
Starting at age 14, a minor can consult a health specialist in complete confidentiality, without parental consent.
Mireille Martin, pharmacist-owner affiliated with Proxim
Pregnancy
The pharmacy is also a trusted place for mothers-to-be, pregnant women and moms. From monitoring pregnancy-related diabetes and breastfeeding difficulties to fertility treatments and early childhood illnesses, the versatile expertise of pharmacists serves families well. For patients without a family doctor, this support becomes invaluable.
Good to know
Prescription of multivitamins or anti-nausea treatment, analysis and adjustment of medication for pregnant women—these are just some of the services offered in pharmacy to support women before, during and after pregnancy.
Menopause
Given that knowledge surrounding certain issues and phenomena related to women’s health is still limited and evolves rapidly, pharmacists are precious allies—notably during menopause, for example. "It's easier for a patient to cope with menopausal symptoms when she understands them," says Mireille Martin. Pharmacists can offer non-pharmacological options, natural health products or pharmacological treatments (such as hormone therapy) to alleviate symptoms of menopause. As specialists, they can also help patients maintain an active, pain-free sex life during this period of major hormonal change.
Good to know
Women of all ages are at risk for urinary tract infections, vaginal yeast infections and vaginal dryness. A consultation with a pharmacist may be all it takes to identify the symptoms of these health problems and obtain a prescription to treat them.
Golden years
For seniors who may feel isolated, the pharmacy team offers a caring presence. "Elderly customers are often more vulnerable at this stage of their lives. Adjusting their medication is a vital part of caring for them," explains Mireille Martin. Pharmacists can analyze the prescribed medication according to the patient's evolving condition, and adjust treatment options, doses or form according to specific needs. In addition, pharmacists often act as an intermediary by relaying important information between a patient and their care team.
Good to know
Vaccination services offered in certain pharmacies enable at-risk patients to better protect themselves against a number of illnesses, including flu, COVID-19, shingles, and pneumococcal infections.
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The pharmacy services presented in this section are offered by pharmacist owners who are affiliated with Proxim. The pharmacists are solely responsible for the professional activities carried out during the practice of pharmacy.
The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.