This Mother’s Day, prioritize yourself too
Motherhood often means putting everyone else's needs before your own. This Mother's Day, consider it a chance to pause, reflect and restore without adding more to your plate. Prioritizing your well-being is not just about self-care; it's one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and your family. These simple steps are a meaningful way to focus on your preventive care while showing up for your family.
Screenings every woman should know about
Preventive care has a quiet power to it. Checkups and screenings can detect hidden health concerns before you even notice them. Think of health screenings as a way to "check in with yourself" rather than another item to check off your to-do list.
Small choices today can make a difference for your future. By reframing screenings as tools that empower you instead of something to fear, you can feel more confident and in control of your health.
Cervical cancer screening: taking charge of your health
Pap smears and HPV screenings are simple but powerful tools to protect your health. Even with a busy schedule, finding time for these screenings is worth it. Early detection of cervical cancer offers reassurance and peace of mind.
When to start and why it matters
For most people, cervical cancer screening begins in early adulthood and changes as you age. There is a lot of confusing information out there, so it helps to learn what's true and what's not. Knowing what applies to you, including your personal risk factors, can bring real peace of mind.
Mammograms: peace of mind in every appointment
It's very common and easy to put off a mammogram. Life gets busy. But staying on top of breast cancer screening can play an important role in catching concerns early and giving you peace of mind. “Make an appointment if you’re due for a mammogram because you’re worth it,” says breast surgeon Elissa Cashman Dalton, MD.
When breast cancer screening is recommended
Given that more and more women are being diagnosed with breast cancer at younger ages, the timing and approach for screening need to be tailored to your unique risks. If you've ever wondered when to start mammograms — or how long to continue — talking to a trusted clinician can help you decide what's right for you.
Colonoscopy: an investment in your future
Delaying colon health screenings is common. But it's important to view them as an opportunity to protect your long-term health. A colonoscopy can helps protect your vitality and ensures you can keep enjoying life's meaningful moments with your family.
Don't delay this preventive step
While colon health isn't always easy to talk about, screening has become more important in recent years, especially as younger adults develop colon cancer. "Screening for problems early can help prevent serious illness later," says gastroenterologist Julie Sullivan, DO.
If you're age 45 or older, or have symptoms or a family history, talk with your doctor about getting screened for colon cancer.
Supporting the heart that supports you
Your heart works as hard as you do. Stress, emotional pressure and the relentless pace of daily life can impact how your heart functions. Even so, many women don't realize how serious heart disease can be. "Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, yet it's often overlooked," says cardiovascular medicine physician Gwyneth McNeill, DO.
Preventing women's heart disease
Start by knowing the four key numbers that reflect your heart health and your family history. Regular checkups help you spot changes early and take action when it matters most.
Women's stroke risks
"Taking care of your brain is an essential part of taking care of you," says board-certified neurosurgeon Thana Theofanis, MD. One of the most important steps you can take to protect your brain health is by taking steps to help prevent stroke. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in women and stroke risk can differ by life stage. Factors like pregnancy, menopause and other health conditions can raise risk for women in ways that aren't always obvious.
Because their risks and warning signs can be unique, women's stroke awareness is a powerful form of prevention. Learning what to watch for and knowing when to seek care not only protects your health today, but your independence and quality of life for years to come.
Learn about stroke interventions
Supporting your strength and mobility at every stage
From pregnancy and menopause to everyday wear and tear, women experience changes in their joints and muscles throughout life. Numbness, joint stiffness or chronic pain can be common, but you don't have to live with them.
Prevention here means protecting your and addressing orthopaedic concerns early can help you stay active, comfortable and confident in your daily routines and keep you engaged with the people and moments that matter most.
Prioritize your mobility and comfort
Pelvic floor health: strength you feel everyday
Your pelvic floor supports bladder, bowel and core function. Strengthening it now — especially after pregnancy or as your body changes with age — can help prevent discomfort, incontinence and other long-term issues.
Pelvic floor care is about maintaining comfort, confidence and control so your body continues to support you as fully as you support others.
Get pelvic floor rehabilitation
Caring for your bones: now and in the years ahead
Bone health loss happens slowly, but its impact can be lasting. While women lose bone density as they age, younger women can be at risk too.
Movement, strength training and appropriate screening can keep your bones strong. And taking steps now to fight osteoporosis can help you continue living actively and confidently in every stage of life.
When caring for everyone else feels like too much
Caring for your family is an act of love but it can also stretch you thin. Stress and anxiety often build quietly, especially for women who are used to pushing through and putting themselves last.
Preventive care includes mental health too. Noticing when you feel overwhelmed and reaching out for support can help restore balance before burnout sets in.
Primary care: your partner in lifelong wellness
For many women, primary care is the place where preventive health truly comes together: connecting screenings, heart health and everyday concerns. Think of your primary care provider (PCP) as a trusted partner dedicated to your overall health journey who can help guide your care over time.
"The continuity of care available through a PCP is instrumental in coordinating your important checkups, addressing your health concerns early and creating a proactive approach to help you stay well," explains primary care physician Nisha George, DO. "Having someone who knows you over time can make a real difference."
Schedule a primary care appointment
Prioritizing yourself without guilt
Reframe scheduling health appointments as affirmations of your importance rather than unnecessary luxuries. It's okay to ask for help and support as you take steps to stay well. It's normal to feel a mix of emotions, such as reluctance, uncertainty or unease, about taking this time for yourself. But changing your routine of selflessness to one of self-care through preventive health is worth it.
Taking care of you: a Mother's Day commitment
This Mother's Day, your family celebrates the tireless devotion you give them. Take a moment today to do something just for you, like scheduling a checkup you've put off. Remember, caring for your own well-being helps protect the people who count on you the most.
Next steps
Choose a healthcare partner who can tailor quality care to your health needs.
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