Women do so much for others. Sometimes, they forget to care for themselves! But women should make health a priority.
Women are usually the CEOs of their families’ medical decisions. They have babies. They make sure their children have proper immunizations for school. They make doctors’ appointments for their families. And they are often the primary caregiver when someone gets sick. Oh, and nearly half of women work outside the home, too. Whew! That’s a lot of juggling!
Women, we hear you. But what happens if you become sick? Your family probably will feel its effects in ways they didn’t even realize.
You’re not alone in balancing life and work with an ultimate goal to stay healthy. We’re here to help you make health a priority during National Women’s Health Week.
National Women’s Health Week (NWHW) is a week-long health observance led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health (OWH). This is a great time to reflect on health goals, what motivates you, and what’s holding you back from being your healthiest you. Write a list of important health topics, including mental health and wellness advice, to discuss with your doctors.
Here are some tips to get you started.
Screening tests
Ask your doctor when you should have these tests
- Blood glucose (diabetes) test
- Blood pressure check
- Body Mass Index (BMI)
- Cholesterol test
- Colonoscopy
- Mammogram
- Pap test
Vaccinations
- Flu shot, every year
- Tetanus booster, every 10 years
- Others as you get older (pneumonia and shingles)
Review with your doctor
- Diet, exercise and sleep habits
- Smoking, alcohol consumption and any substance use habits
- Contraception choices
Don’t forget to have regular dental and vision check-ups, too.
If you have concerns about any of these health topics, COVID-19 or others, never hesitate to call your doctor to schedule a check-up or discussion.