May is women's Health Care Month...
Women's Health Care Month is observed annually in May.
It is an annual observance led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health. The goal of this day is to empower women to make their health a priority and to help women understand what steps they can take to improve their health. Before entering into my retired profession, I was 200 pounds. I was not what they call a 'Sloppy' 200 pounds.
I was solid and looked proportionate. If I am being honest with you, reader, I had to beat men off with a stick. I have never had so much positive male attention. I was also unaware I was 200 pounds. I had just gotten out of a long-term relationship.
I had moved to a new city, and I made a big purchase of furniture and a car. I found comfort in watching The Bachelor and shoving my face with a large Sonic whopper shake (My Favorite) every night. I went to my routine Doctor's appointment. It was an initial visit. We spoke and I told the Doctor everything that I was dealing with.
He pointed out that I had gone from 160 pounds to 200 pounds in less than a year. I thought he would fat shame me or make me feel bad about my choices, but that was the opposite. He explained to me, that life had Major Stressors that could cause weight gain. And wouldn't you know I was dealing with 3 of 10 major stressors? He told me if I kept down the path I was on, I would end up either diabetic or with heart disease.
I was only 27 at the time, which meant I had a whole life in front of me, even if it didn't feel like I did at the time, because my identity had been so caught up in my ex. After that visit, I came up with a diet plan that worked for me. I was on an 1800-calorie-a-day diet as well as upped my activity. I partook in Zuumba, yoga, speed walking, praise dancing, and volunteer work. Within 6 months, I was down to 155 pounds.
My follow-up appointment surprised my Doctor. He was elated that I had lost the weight. I don't think he didn't have confidence in me, I think he had just taken me on as a patient and wasn't sure of me or any new patients in general. I was able to keep the weight off.
Top Killers Among Women
Heart disease, Cancer, and Suicide are the top three killers of women in America. Heart disease refers to different types of heart conditions, including coronary artery disease and heart attack. All of these are related to poor diet and stress. Heart disease is preventable. When detected early, 80% of heart disease patients were cured.
Among women, Breast and Cervical Cancer is the top cancer diagnosis in the US. Both forms can be scary, but depending on how early you are with your diagnosis can increase your survival chances. Bi-yearly exams, as well as self exams, are a great way to assist your healthcare provider.
Women's healthcare isn't just about what's going on on the outside, but what is going on mentally as well. Suicide is the third cause of death among women in America. If you feel like you are not yourself or finding it hard to focus on small tasks, you should seek professional help.
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