Now that the school year is in full swing, you might feel like you’re running on fumes. We all get caught up in the back-to-school chaos—packing lunches, helping with homework, and keeping up with endless schedules. But as moms, it’s so easy to put ourselves last. This is your friendly reminder that you can’t pour from an empty cup! Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential so you can be the best version of yourself for your family.
So, while you’re busy with everyone else, here are five things you can do to take care of yourself right now.
Related Reading :: Why Moms Should Care About Heart Health NOW
1. Schedule Your Annual Physical
Think of your annual physical as a one-stop-shop for your health. Even if you feel perfectly fine, don’t skip this visit! Your primary care doctor can tackle a bunch of health concerns all in one appointment. Screenings to check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar can catch potential issues early. This is also a great time to talk about your mental health.
2. Don’t Skip Important Screenings
Beyond the physical, there are specific tests every woman should get regularly. From mammograms and skin exams to heart and lung screenings, these regular checkups and tests are key to catching issues early.
- Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is the gold standard for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer. It can detect polyps that can be removed to prevent cancer from developing. For adults at average risk of colorectal cancer, regular screenings should start at age 45.
- Heart screenings: Cardiovascular disease kills more women than all forms of cancer combined, but a HeartSaver CT scan can help detect calcium build-up in your arteries, giving you a chance to fight heart disease before it starts. Doctors often recommend this scan for women ages 45-70 who have one or more risk factor like high blood pressure, diabetes or a family history of heart disease. Understanding your heart health is critical to getting the care you need. Knowing if it’s at risk for disease can help you make choices that keep it beating strong. Learn more by taking this heart risk assessment.
- Lung cancer screenings: If you’re 50 to 80 years old and have a history of smoking, doctors recommend a simple, yearly low-dose CT scan to catch lung cancer early – when it’s most treatable. A referral is needed from your primary care physician who will explain the risks and benefits of the study.
- Mammograms: Starting at age 40, women should get mammograms annually to screen for breast cancer. Changes to your breasts or your risk factors may affect when you should start having mammograms and how frequently they are required. Through Solis Mammography, St. David’s HealthCare provides comprehensive breast imaging services, including breast screening and diagnostic 3D mammography, breast ultrasound, breast biopsy and bone density scanning. State-of-the-art technology such as 3D mammography delivers exceptionally accurate results while reduced pinching and discomfort is delivered through curved technology shaped like a woman’s breasts to help distribute pressure more evenly. Understanding the importance of time, especially for busy moms, Solis Mammography provides online scheduling and quick results, typically within one to two business days after your exam.
- Pap smears and pelvic exams: For women over 21, a Pap smear every three years can detect abnormal cells that may lead to cervical cancer. Regular screenings are crucial for early detection. Depending on certain factors, your doctor may recommend you have more frequent screenings.
- Skin screening: The most common cancer in the United States, skin cancer is highly treatable if found early. You should conduct regular self-exams to look for new moles and birthmarks, or changes to existing ones. During an annual skin exam a dermatologist checks the skin for moles, birthmarks, or other pigmented areas that look abnormal in color, size, shape, or texture. Early detection of anything abnormal can lead to more effective treatment.
3. Make Time for Movement
Your health journey isn’t just about doctor visits. It’s about making healthy choices whenever you can, because progress, not perfection, is the goal. Moving your body is critical for both physical and mental health. A simple 30-minute walk or a quick at-home workout can make a huge difference in how you feel.
4. Prioritize Rest and Hydration
When you’re constantly on the go, it’s easy to forget the basics. Make a conscious effort to drink enough water throughout the day and get adequate sleep. These simple habits can help reduce your risk of chronic diseases and keep you feeling your best. Remember, you can’t be at your best if you’re constantly running on empty.
5. Call Your Doctor
Finally, if you don’t have a primary care provider, make it a priority to find one. Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be a solo mission.
Ready to find a doctor for you and your family? Find a St. David’s HealthCare physician.
Expert advice, available 24/7. Free health-related advice is just a phone call away. Our licensed nurses will help you understand your symptoms, answer health-related questions, and navigate where to seek care. Give us a call at (844) 706-8773.
