In recent decades, women have started serving the nation in what were once male dominated areas. However, women serving in the military are not receiving the same healthcare options and concerns as their male counterparts; especially those serving in combat zones.

Like men, women suffer from health care issues unique to their own gender. Everything from vaginal infections to frequent urinary tract infections has been widely reported. In addition, the stress of being in combat zones affects a woman’s menstrual cycle, leading to gynecological problems. But the concerns go even further to things such as ill-fitting body armor designed for male bodies that are causing friction resulting in skin conditions. Women need body armor designed for the female form.

Women are risking their lives the same as men for the security of our nation. Ask the Veterans Affairs Secretary to implement more scientific studies devoted to military women’s health care problems and to move quickly to implement improvements!