On the Run, Mother/Daughter Edition

 As we close out May, I also wondered about health issues my mother and I should be working on together. I mentioned previously my Mom is in her 60’s and I am in my 30’s. Are there any women’s health needs we both should be focused on together to support each other? I asked Samantha Sinclair, MD from @thechristhospital Obstetrics & Gynecology and she gave some great tips such as:
 What health issues should we work on together? Preventative care varies from age to age, but here are some good places to start:

• Mammogram – Starting between age 40-50 depending on your family history, every 1-2 years
• Skin Issues – If fair skinned, have moles, or lots of sun exposure, we should see a dermatologist yearly 
• If cancer runs in the family – it depends on what time and at what age. Certain family history will alter your personal screening recommendations. 
• Physical Health (staying active) – ALWAYS! Staying active is important throughout our lives.

What health issues differ at our ages (60s and 30s)? It varies person to person and with age, but the big things women don't seem to be prepared for are :

• Heavier and more painful periods after childbearing can occur
• Changes experienced during our 40s as the ovaries begin to lose steam. Periods can become irregular, can develop typical perimenopausal symptoms like hot flashes, increased weight gain, moodiness, etc. 
• Perimenopausal/menopausal transition: this is a big life change and most women only hear about hot flashes and no periods. Moodiness, weight gain, memory loss, hair loss, decreased libido, etc., are all common things to experience and women can feel like they are losing themselves

To learn more about women’s health services at The Christ Hospital or to find an expert near you, visit www.TheChristHospital.com/services/womens-health.