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March - A very special month The beginning of a new season, the third month of the year and one focused on varied observances and health awareness. As we spring forward with daylight savings giving us more light and the beginning of the spring season, make this the month where the focus and light is on you. As women, we instinctively take care or our children, spouses, parents, community. We are caregivers, workers, business owners, and multifaceted beings that wear multiple hats. As we "March" through this month, lets take some time to observe: Women's History Month A reminder for women to continue to strive, to be strong role models leading by example. We as women are the beneficiaries of those strong women that have made strides in history before us, working diligently to overcome barrier to become leaders, inventors, teachers, policy makers. Similarly, the men in our lives should stand as allies, acknowledging and supporting women and their value in their lives, as well as society at large. Together, we can continue the journey by being proactive with our health so that we can reshape the world one woman at a time.
Do you know someone who suffers monthly from debilitating pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and possible infertility? Chances are you do. One in ten women are affected by endometriosis. In fact, women loose up to one fourth of their work week and production capabilities due to pain. Endometriosis is often difficult to diagnose and the treatment is vast. It is essential to recognize symptoms and effectively communicate symptoms with your heath care provider. This is the first step to living a better life
Did you know? Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States. We recommend regular screening beginning at age 50. Specifically, colonoscopy screening can identify and remove precancerous polyps. In fact, testing can be done earlier depending on personal risk factors. More importantly, getting screened can reduce the mortality rate of those diagnosed with colon cancer.
According to the CDC over 1 million people age 13 and over are living with HIV.
HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system leading to the disease states that is well known as AIDS. The virus is transmitted through infected body fluids: vaginal, rectal, anal, semen, blood and breast milk. Disease prevention and early diagnosis through testing remain the most effective way to reduce the incidence and spread of HIV. While we think about new seasons and new beginnings, prevention and awareness remain effective tools in our efforts to control many disease states that affect our well-being. It is never too late to take a new leap forward in your life and wellness. As we honor women this month, take this time to honor yourself. An annual visit to your healthcare provider and regular screening are small steps to ensure a brighter future for you and those you love.
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 As we celebrate this special month of love, it is important that all women understand the vital relationship our heart shares with our hormones. Heart disease remains the number one cause of death in both men and women in the United States. Prior to menopause, women are at a lower risk of heart disease than their similarly aged male counterparts. However, this advantage decreases after menopause. Scientific research has shown that declining levels of estrogen increases a woman's risk of heart disease. Specifically, when a woman enters menopause, her hormone levels will decline. This generally occurs in women between 50-54, however each woman and her experience may be different. Testosterone levels decline first, followed by estrogen and progesterone.
Did you know declining Estrogen levels affect your Heart? Understandably, we tend to associate menopause and declining estrogen levels with hot flashes, decreased bone mineral density, decreased libido, decreased energy levels, and brain fog. However, in addition to these factors, low estrogen levels cause the blood vessels of the heart to harden, thus making the heart work harder and ultimately resulting in elevated blood pressure, changes in our heart rate and heart rhythms. Likewise, our cholesterol levels are affected by menopause - triglycerides and LDL (bad cholesterol) increase, while HDL (good cholesterol) decrease. As women approach menopause, our bodies become resistant to the insulin, a hormone that is needed to convert sugars from food into energy. Coincidentally, it is at this time that many women are diagnosed with pre-diabetes and diabetes. These hormonal changes put women at risk for heart disease and stroke. One of the more common complaints of many women, in addition to the discomfort of hot flashes, is weight gain, which happens because metabolism slows tremendously. Related to menopause, hormones determine how we store and burn fat and often this weight gain is around our “midriff” area. This increase in weight places strain on the heart and also may increase the likelihood of heart disease and stroke. Testosterone The “me too" Hormone Testosterone is the hormone that is often overlooked as it relates to its benefits to the aging woman. Importantly, testosterone has a cardio-protective effect on the blood vessels of the heart. In fact, some studies have linked low testosterone to cardiac risk factors. By reducing body fat and increasing muscle mass, testosterone helps to reduce heart vessel inflammation. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology showed that testosterone supplementation improves insulin resistance and functional capacity in women with congestive heart failure. Some testosterone is converted by the body into estrogen and may not be suited for everyone. Proper work up and treatment is of vital importance. The Good News! Heart Disease is preventable and treatable. This month's emphasis on love is the perfect time to focus on the most important people in our lives including ourselves. Women can start by making exercise part or their weekly routine, quit smoking, check blood pressure regularly and eat healthier foods including fruits and vegetables. See your Gynecologist for hormonal testing and treatment. It’s time to take charge and normalize those hormones!  Did you Know?
Each year more than 13,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with Cervical Cancer? The MediSpa & Gynecology want you to know that there is a lot you can do to prevent cervical cancer. HPV ( Human Papillomavirus) is a very common infection that is spread through sexual activity and it causes almost all the cases of cervical cancer. About 79 million Americans have HPV, but many people with HPV are not aware that they are infected. HPV is usually transmitted genital-to-genital, genital-to-anal, oral-to-genital although less often. Studies show using a condom can reduce transmission to females. The good news? The HPV vaccine (shot) can prevent HPV Cervical Cancer can be prevented with regular screening and follow up care In Honor of National Cervical Cancer awarenes month, The MedSpa & Gynecology encourages: ** All women to start regular cervical cancer screenings at age 21 with a simple pap test ** Parents to make sure teens and pre teens get the HPV vaccine Women up to age 26 and men up to age 21 can still get the vaccine Wife, Mothers, Daughters, Sisters, Every woman is at risk Thanks to the health care reform law , you and your family members may be able to get these services at no cost to you. Check with your insurance company to learn more. Taking small steps can help keep you safe and healthy. Smoking Increases your risk. Make this your year to stop smoking. You can do it! Update your 2018 List, get your pap test done today. Remember: Prevention is your best Cure The MediSpa & Gynecology "Simply you" |
AuthorDr. Kareen Saunders dedicates her medical practice, The MediSpa & Gynecology in Monroe, New York, to helping women prevent disease while achieving the best in health, wellness, and beauty Archives
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