Women’s health care is hampered by "taboos," English chief medical officer Dame Sally Davies said today.
Dame Sally made women’s health the theme of her annual report, also calling for action on obesity and ovarian cancer.
She also highlighted taboo problems such as incontinence and the menopause.
The report says obesity is one of the main risks to women’s health.
Some 62% of women aged 45 to 54 were overweight or obese by 2013, the report says, together with 56% of women between the ages of 35 and 44.
Dame Sally calls for more action to tackle the "myth" that women should eat for two when pregnant.
The report also calls for a national audit of ovarian cancer care.
It says clinical staff should have improved training to recognise violence against women.
Dame Sally said: "In women, obesity can affect the outcomes of any pregnancies they have and the health of any future children they may have.
"This is a difficult message to convey, as it risks burdening women with guilt and responsibility, but I believe that it can also empower women to take positive steps like eating more healthily and taking more exercise. It is never too late to take action for a healthier lifestyle – for you and your family."
The report was welcomed by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.
President Dr David Richmond said: “Present lifestyle factors such as maternal obesity, poor diet and nutrition, lack of physical activity, high levels of alcohol consumption, smoking and poor sexual health are the ticking time bomb that can dramatically impact upon a woman’s fertility and increase the risk of pregnancy complications, as well as the short and long-term health of both mother and baby.
"These issues must be addressed using a public health model, which incorporates health promotion via education and support, to enable all women to make safe and appropriate lifestyle choices."
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