Women's health care crucial in Berlin

Women often put their own health last. Between work, family and daily responsibilities, routine care can feel easy to postpone. In rural communities especially, distance, busy schedules and a tendency to wait it out can mean women go years without being seen unless something feels urgent.

Health professionals say that pattern matters.

Women’s health care is not the same at every stage of life. Needs change over time, from routine checkups to pregnancy care, family planning and support during menopause. Regular visits help establish what is normal and make it easier to spot changes early.

Mary Beth Marburger is a board-certified women’s health nurse practitioner at Pomerene Women’s Health Services in Berlin. Working alongside midwives and OB-GYN physicians, she has seen how important it is for women to get the right care for their situation.

“Women’s health is about caring for the whole person over time,” Marburger said. “When women understand what’s happening in their bodies, they can make informed decisions instead of waiting and worrying.”

Changes in monthly patterns, ongoing discomfort or symptoms that don’t feel right are common reasons women start asking questions. While these changes are often part of life, they also are signals worth checking. Early care can reduce stress and often leads to simpler solutions.

Preventive care plays a key role as women age. Routine visits allow for recommended screenings and conversations about cancer prevention, bone strength and everyday habits that support long-term health. Family health history becomes more important over time, helping guide future care.

Pregnancy and the months after birth are another season when steady care matters. Early guidance and regular checkups support both physical recovery and overall well-being. Looking ahead, counseling before pregnancy also can help women plan with clarity.

“Consistent care helps women stay ahead of problems instead of reacting to them,” Marburger said. “That consistency supports a healthier life over the long run.”