It’s YOUR Body Why Women Need To Be Active Participants in Their Healthcare

It’s YOUR Body

Why Women Need To Be Active Participants in Their Healthcare

Many people are surprised to learn that physicians and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend a girl have her first visit with a gynecologist between the ages of 13 and 15. We’re fortunate that at this young age most girls don’t have significant health concerns, but we can talk about it and help prepare them for the upcoming physical and emotional changes they may experience. I like my first visit with a young patient and their parent or guardian to be proactive so we can set health goals and provide guidance for a long, healthy life. This first visit provides the teen the opportunity to begin to build trust with their healthcare provider, ask questions and alleviate fears. During the initial appointment, I also talk about normal development, discuss family history, risk factors and schedule any other health screenings they may need. It is unlikely that a pelvic exam would be needed at this first visit. I also use this appointment as an opportunity to discuss other important healthy habits that impact teens. We discuss risky behaviors such as smoking, vaping, alcohol consumption and texting while driving as well as the impact these choices can have on them today and later in life. We also address the importance of healthy choices, physical activity and the importance of mental health.

As teens experience menstruation and hormonal changes, they may also experience heavy or irregular periods, a delayed period or have acne or unwanted hair growth. These concerns can also be addressed with the gynecologist. Parents and guardians play an important role for young women as they go through these changes and there are things you can to do help: • Educate yourself on upcoming physical and emotional changes so you can have discussions and answer questions. • Be proactive and set health goals. • Keep open lines of communication and encourage them to ask questions. • After the appointment, set aside time to speak with her about the information addressed during the appointment. • Let the young woman take some control and let them be involved in their healthcare decisions. • Lead by example by engaging in your own healthy practices and lifestyle choices. • Take the young woman’s maturity level into account throughout the process. When we encourage young women to be active participants in their healthcare, we lay the foundation for their strong, healthy future. On the other end of the spectrum, women must prepare for menopausal transition or as I sometimes refer to it: the “new puberty.” Menopausal transition typically occurs around the age of 51 and it can last anywhere from a few months to a couple of years. The most common symptoms of menopause include abnormal bleeding, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, depression,

Tips to be EMPOWERED at Your Next Appointment:

• Be prepared for your visit. If this is a first visit with a new physician be sure to have information regarding your past medical history, family medical history, surgical history, list of medications and vaccination records. • Share with the physician if you are experiencing anything out of the ordinary or different regarding your health. • Ask questions! I encourage patients to write them down or make notes in their phone so we can address all concerns and nothing is forgotten. • BE HONEST! It’s so important to share honest and accurate information with your physician. He or she will listen and advise without judgment. If you omit information, it could impact the diagnosis and treatment process.

anxiety, vaginal dryness, decrease in sex drive and skin and hair changes. Sometimes these symptoms can begin years before the period stops. The most challenging thing about menopause is that no two women experience it the same way and it can be a bumpy ride for some. However, there are ways to prepare to make menopause and its symptoms easier to manage. I recommend eating a healthy and balanced diet; maintaining a healthy weight; scheduling regular checkups with your physician; receiving appropriate vaccines as recommended by your physician; exercise and practicing mindfulness. If you are suffering from the bothersome effects of menopause, there is good news. Medication and treatments are available to help make the changes around menopause easier for patients. A wide array of hormonal (estrogen and progesterone) and nonhormonal medications including patches and oral medications, can help balance the body and manage symptoms. In cases of excessive bleeding during menstruation, a low dose birth control or progesterone IUD can help. It is important to treat heavy periods because if left unmanaged, heavier bleeding can lead to iron deficiencies. The most important thing you can do while experiencing menopause is to stay in touch with your physician. Working together to update and make changes to your treatment plan, as needed, can help you adjust and relieve the symptoms that are worrisome or bothersome. Managing menopause and its symptoms is a team effort. And, as always, be kind to yourself! 2 By Christie Ganas, MD Tower Health Medical Group Gynecology – Exeter DeMoss Road