What Every Woman Needs to Know About Her Body
- Doctor Anywhere Team
- 2h
- 5 min read
Women’s health isn’t just about annual checkups. It’s about understanding the everyday conditions that can affect our hormones, emotions, and skin at different stages of life. From irregular periods to emotional changes after childbirth, many concerns are common but often misunderstood.
To shed light on three frequently asked questions about PCOS, postpartum depression, and “chicken skin” (keratosis pilaris), we spoke with Dr. Almira Cunanan, one of Doctor Anywhere’s General Practitioners. Here’s what she wants every woman to know.
How Do I Know If I Have PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), PCOS affects an estimated 8–13% of women worldwide, and many remain undiagnosed.
Dr. Almira explains, “PCOS stands for polycystic ovary syndrome. It is a hormonal condition. Not all women with PCOS experience the same symptoms.”
Common symptoms may include:
Irregular or missed periods
Acne or worsening skin condition
Excess hair growth (such as on the upper lip or chin)
Weight gain
Difficulty getting pregnant
“These symptoms are caused by hormonal imbalance,” she says. “But having one symptom does not automatically mean you have PCOS.”
Diagnosis requires proper medical evaluation.
“You need to consult your doctor. There are diagnostic criteria. We may request an ultrasound and laboratory tests to confirm if it is truly PCOS. Do not panic immediately! Seek proper consultation.”
The Mayo Clinic also emphasizes that PCOS is diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms, lab results, and ultrasound findings, and not just one sign alone.
Early diagnosis matters, as untreated PCOS can increase the risk of diabetes, infertility, and heart problems later in life.
Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression: What’s the Difference?
Childbirth is often described as joyful and life-changing. But alongside happiness, emotional changes are very common.
Dr. Almira explains, “Giving birth is one of the joys of being a woman. But especially for first-time mothers, fear and adjustment are present. It is a new phase of life.”
What Are Baby Blues?
Baby blues usually occur within the first one to two weeks after delivery.
“You may feel sad, cry often, or feel overwhelmed because suddenly your routine changes and your focus is entirely on your baby,” she explains. “You are not abnormal for feeling that way. It is an adjustment phase.”
Symptoms typically improve within two weeks as hormones stabilize and mothers adapt to their new routine.
According to the Mayo Clinic and Dove Medical Press’ International Journal of Women’s Health, baby blues affect 75-80% of new mothers and usually resolve on their own without medical treatment.
When Is It Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression (PPD) is more serious and lasts longer.
“We think of postpartum depression when the sadness persists beyond two weeks and becomes worse instead of better,” Dr. Almira says.
Warning signs include:
Persistent sadness or hopelessness
Severe anxiety
Loss of interest in caring for the baby or oneself
Neglecting hygiene
Feeling like you are not a good mother
Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
“The most important thing is to recognize it,” she emphasizes. “The bravest thing you can do is accept it and ask for help.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that about 10-20% of women experience postpartum depression globally. It is treatable with proper medical support, therapy, and sometimes medication.
If symptoms persist or include thoughts of self-harm, immediate medical consultation is necessary.
Is “Chicken Skin” (Keratosis Pilaris) Normal?
Many women notice small, rough bumps on their arms, thighs, or cheeks, which are commonly called “chicken skin.” The medical term is keratosis pilaris.
Dr. Almira reassures patients, “A lot of women experience this and even men. Do not worry too much.”
She explains that keratosis pilaris happens when keratin builds up in the hair follicles, causing small bumps. “It does not usually completely go away, but you can control it.”
How to manage it:
Moisturize regularly
Use gentle, hypoallergenic lotions if you have sensitive skin
Avoid excessive scratching
“When your skin is well-hydrated, the bumps are less noticeable and you reduce the risk of infection from scratching,” she explains.
The Mayo Clinic notes that keratosis pilaris is harmless and often improves with consistent skincare.
Taking Charge of Your Health
Women experience many changes throughout life, and seeking medical advice is not overreacting. It is responsible self-care.
If you notice persistent symptoms, emotional struggles, or physical changes that concern you, consult a trusted healthcare provider. Early consultation allows for proper diagnosis, reassurance, and treatment when necessary.
This Women’s Health Month, let’s normalize open conversations about women’s health, without shame, fear, or stigma.
Doctor Anywhere general practitioners are available 24/7, even on weekends and holidays, with an average waiting time of less than five minutes. You can also book appointments with specialists, including ob-gyn, dermatologists, and mental health experts, all from the comfort of your home.
If you’re also looking for an affordable annual health plan, you can subscribe to DA Healthwise for just ₱99/year. This annual health plan allows you to access discounted video consultations with general practitioners, specialists, and even mental health experts. Plus, you'll unlock exclusive discounts and freebies from DA Perks’ health and wellness partner merchants, including Halia, Shinagawa Diagnostic & Preventive Care, and more.
Have an HMO or health insurance?
Link your membership account for fully covered video consultations for you and your dependents. Doctor Anywhere’s accredited health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and insurance providers include AMAPHIL, COCOLIFE Healthcare, East West Healthcare, Etiqa, Forticare, Fortune Life, Generali, Health Maintenance, Inc. (HMI), Lacson & Lacson Insurance Brokers, Manulife HealthFlex, Manulife Medical Secure, MCBL HealthFlex, MCBL Medical Secure, Maxicare, MaxiLife, MedAsia Philippines, Medicare Plus, OONA Insurance, SIMPLeTPA, Sun Life Grepa, and WellCare Health Maintenance. Tap here to learn more about Doctor Anywhere’s HMOs and insurance partners.
Exclusive Promo Codes: Save on Your First Video Consultation
Our healthcare providers are available daily, including weekends and holidays, ensuring you get the care you need anytime. Download the free Doctor Anywhere app and use a promo code on your first video consultation to save:
Save ₱30 on your first video consultation with a general practitioner. Use *promo code DACONSULT30.
Save ₱30 on your first video consultation with a specialist. Use **promo code DAEXPERTCARE.
Save ₱50 on your first online session with a mental health expert. Use ^promo code DAMENTALHEALTH.
Make the most out of your doctor appointments! Tap here for key reminders to help you prepare for your video consultations.
One-time use per account for the first video consultation. Valid for new Doctor Anywhere users who haven’t had a video consultation yet. Promo runs from Jan. 1, 2026 - Dec. 31, 2026. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-242044 Series of 2025. *Promo runs from May 1, 2025 - Apr. 30, 2026. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-221357 Series of 2025. ^Promo runs from June 3, 2025 to June 2, 2026. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-226338 Series of 2025. Visit https://www.doctoranywhere.ph/promos-and-discounts for more information.
Sources:
1. Dr. Cunanan, Almira. Interviewed on February 19, 2025.
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20376617
ABOUT THE EXPERT
Dr. Almira M. Alvez-Cunanan, PTRP, MD, DPCLM, is a physician at Doctor Anywhere Philippines, specializing in lifestyle medicine, occupational health and safety, and family and community medicine. She also practices at Alvez-Cunanan Family Care Clinic, and Mandaluyong City Medical Center.
Dr. Cunanan earned her medical degree from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila and is a Diplomate of the Philippine College of Lifestyle Medicine, and a certified primary care family physician. She brings additional expertise as a Physical Therapist Registered Professional (PTRP), offering a comprehensive approach to health and wellness.
Outside of her medical practice, Dr. Cunanan is a great cook—a talent passed down from her mom. She humorously admits to having the worst sense of direction and can get lost in a parking lot, but ask her where a specific boutique is in the mall, and she'll lead you straight to it!
Comments