From conception to advanced age, the story of a woman’s life is an incredible journey woven together by the intricate interplay of biology, environment, and evolution. Each stage, from embryonic development through childhood, adolescence, sexual maturity, menopause, and aging, bears the dual narrative of marvel and pathology.
Embryonic and Fetal Development (9 months)
“Sex differentiation begins around the 6th week of gestation when the presence of two X chromosomes leads to the development of ovaries, which will later produce estrogen.”
—Moore, K.L., Persaud, T.V.N., & Torchia, M.G. (2018). The Developing Human: Clinically Oriented Embryology.
Marvel
Pathologies
Infancy/Toddler (0-3)
“Female toddlers experience an early surge in social and emotional development.”
—Zahn-Waxler, C., Radke-Yarrow, M., & King, R.A. (1979). Childhood Temperament and Personality.
Marvel
Childhood (4-11)
“During this age range, female children typically show advances in fine and gross motor skills, including improved coordination and strength.”
—Haywood, K.M., & Getchell, N. (2009). Developmental Motor Behavior: Theory and Practice.
Marvel
Pathologies
Adolescence/Puberty (12-18)
“During puberty, female adolescents experience a rise in estrogen levels, which drives the development of secondary sexual characteristics such as breast development, widening of hips, and changes in skin and hair texture.”
—Grumbach, M.M., & Mongan, E.S. (2000). Gonadal Development, Differentiation, and Function in the Human.
Marvel
Pathologies
Adulthood/ Sexual Maturation (19-44)
“Breast cancer risk increases with age, and although it is less common in women in their twenties and early thirties, it is a significant concern for women in their thirties and early forties, with factors including family history and hormonal exposure influencing risk.”
—Lung, M.L., & Miller, A.B. (2003). Breast Cancer Risk Factors and Screening.
Marvel
Pathologies
Preconception/ Pregnancy (Puberty - 44)
“During pregnancy, blood volume increases by approximately 30-50%, leading to increased cardiac output and changes in blood pressure, which help meet the increased metabolic demands of both the mother and the growing fetus.”
—Clapp, J.F. (2003). Cardiovascular Adaptations to Pregnancy.
Marvel
Pathologies
Perimenopause/ Menopause (45-55)
“Osteoporosis is a significant concern during menopause due to the decline in estrogen levels, which leads to decreased bone density and an increased risk of fractures and breaks.”
—Khosla, S., & Riggs, B.L. (2005). Osteoporosis: Diagnostic Evaluation and Treatment.
Marvel
Pathologies
Postmenopause/Advanced Age (56+)
“Cognitive function may be affected in advanced age, with some postmenopausal women experiencing changes in memory and cognitive abilities, potentially influenced by hormonal changes and aging processes.”
—Yaffe, K., & Kanekar, S. (2004). Hormones, Aging, and Cognitive Function.