Today’s healthcare isn’t about providing a cookie-cutter approach. It’s about providing options to patients so they can find the treatment or care that’s right for their situation. For patients preparing for childbirth, this may include working with a midwife. Midwives are healthcare professionals who care for and support women through their reproductive years – mainly … Continued
Although it’s not often talked about, abnormal uterine bleeding is a common condition among reproductive-age women. In fact, about five percent of women ages 18-50 are affected per year. This number is likely even higher since the condition is often not reported. Abnormal uterine bleeding is an all-encompassing term to describe bleeding between periods, a … Continued
According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer during her lifetime. You can’t control some risk factors, such as family history, genetics and ethnicity. However, you can influence others by following these lifestyle tips: Maintain a healthy weight – Adults should aim to keep … Continued
Facing breast cancer alone can be overwhelming. But facing it with others makes it easier. It’s because of that shared experience and sense of community that many breast cancer patients choose to take part in a support group. These groups provide a safe space for both current patients and survivors to open up about their … Continued
Ladies: to take better care of those you love, you need to take care of yourself first. But juggling a busy career with being the main caregiver for family members often forces women to push their own health concerns to the back burner. It’s time to stop playing second fiddle. By being more proactive about … Continued
Many women dread their annual well-woman checkup. But instead of viewing it as an inconvenience, think of it as an opportunity to improve your overall health. These appointments are a great time to ask questions, get important health screenings, and review and discuss your contraceptive options and reproductive plans. Women should begin getting an annual … Continued
If you experience occasional urine leakage, you’re not alone. Stress incontinence is common, especially among women. In fact, according to the Office of Women’s Health, it affects up to twice as many women as men. This may be because pregnancy, childbirth and menopause can affect your bladder, urethra and other muscles that support these organs. … Continued
Heart attacks occur equally in men and women. Yet many people – women included – believe heart attacks mainly affect middle-aged men. This can lead to women not recognizing or ignoring key symptoms and putting off treatment until it’s too late. Most heart attacks are caused by coronary artery disease. This occurs when plaque develops … Continued
Chicagoland resident Maria Westphal was taking a swim on a sunny Tuesday afternoon when she first noticed something didn’t feel right between her breast and armpit. “If I hadn’t gone in the pool that day, I wouldn’t have noticed it,” says Maria. “I kept moving my arm and wondering if something was really there. Because … Continued
Finding a lump is the most recognizable breast cancer symptom. But there are additional signs to watch for to help detect cancer during its earliest stages. One of the simplest ways to detect breast cancer is to conduct a monthly breast self-exam. There are three main methods: In the shower – Move the pads of … Continued