Here’s To Women’s History Month & Women’s Health

Writer: Da'Zhane Johnson

March is the month of celebration for women’s history around the world. In fact, the month

comprises of various events like forums and exclusive access within women museums. Of

course, the celebration of this month is appreciated, women’s history needs to be reinforced as

well. Furthermore, informing women about what they can do to better themselves in the present day

is essential. The health of women has always been a complex aspect that many cannot

understand and don’t take care of. While men undergo changes as well, the frequent change

within women is what makes our health so complex. It is hard to determine which changes may

be minor or major.

Below you will find a little health checklist designed specifically for women. I mean who doesn’t want to add good health to their list of celebrations?

1. Clinical Breast Screening:

The fear of the word cancer can stop many women from getting an annual breast screening. I

guarantee that many don’t even know that lung cancer causes more death among women than

breast cancer. By the age of 20, women should receive a breast exam annually or three years at

the latest. This exam can simply happen clinically. Taking the initiative to get the exam allows

a good precaution, however, if you need more certain talk to your doctor about a mammogram.

The x-ray can provide more certainty and flush your fears down the drain.

2. Pap test/Cervical Screening:

Just like women fear breast screenings, the fear increases when it comes to cervical screenings.

However, both tasks are essential when discussing women’s health. A Pap test, or pap smear, is

a simple examination that is used to identify precancerous bacteria in the cervix. Women,

specifically women in their 20s, are recommended to receive the test every three years.

Additionally, it is important to note that this isn’t the only type of cervical screening, but the

primary examination women get while in the younger stage of their life.

3. Reproductive and Sexual Health:

Last, but certainly not least, are STD tests. Although STDs can be found in both women and

males, the test needs to be emphasized more amongst women. There is a social stigma of women

automatically being referred to as “sl*ts” or “h*es,” especially because we are supposed to not be

sexually active until marriage. For men, the notion of “boys will be boys” makes their sexual

health less demeaning. Regardless, women who are sexually active should receive testing

annually. Moreover, take the time to ask for test results from your partners as well. Your testing

should include an HIV test and gonorrhea and chlamydia screenings.

As a woman, you should never be ashamed of your health! Take this month of March to really

understand the condition of your body. This means to go get the testing you may be fearing all

year and make it apparent to set the example for women around you. Overall, celebrate Women’s

History Month by taking the initiative to celebrate from within.

Sources:

https://www.gethealthystayhealthy.com/tools/womens-health-checklist