Welcome readers, tonight I am writing about a topic that is near and dear to me. Women’s health is a topic not usually discussed, but in my family it was a problem and we spoke very openly about our problems. Let’s dig in…
Moms as a whole are busy creatures, usually not taking the time to look after themselves as they should. I’m sure when you have ever uttered a complaint about a period you were told many women had them and got through it and so will you.
Periods can be so much worse for some women. This is likely one of the least diagnosed issues as women are embarrassed or don’t want to bother anyone. I am here to tell you to stop accepting this and bother everyone you can until you get the answers you need.
Let’s first go over what a normal period is, bleeding occurs every 21-35 days. The length of bleeding can be anywhere from 2-7 days. Throughout your entire period you should lose about 2-3 tablespoons of blood. Other common symptoms are mild bloating, cramps, headaches, breast tenderness, back discomfort, and fatigue. These symptoms should be mild and not debilitating.
If you are experiencing debilitating periods or extreme mood changes see your Doctor, this is not normal.
I would like to share an experience I had with A gynaecologist. I spoke to my Medical Doctor and we were both in agreement that I was in Perimenopause early. I was having heavy periods for weeks at a time. I had to start iron supplement as my iron was depleting. I was finished having children and there was a history of ovarian cancer in the family so I was leaning towards a hysterectomy. When I went to said gynaecologist he told me I should seek out a therapist. He did not listen and thought it was all in my head? I was shocked by his response and left the office knowing this man, with the God like complex didn’t believe a word I had told him. I returned to my family doctor and requested a female gynaecologist for a second opinion. I waited several months to get in to see her, but when I did I felt like I was home. She listened intently and reacted to my symptoms and I didn’t even have to nudge her for surgery, she offered it. I was in perimenopause in my late 30’s. I did not want to have debilitating periods for the next 20 or more years. She heard me and assured me she would look after me, and she did. I actually had a few tears and explained to her how the last doctor told me to seek therapy. She apologized for his reaction and showed me genuine empathy.
This isn’t to say that there aren’t many fantastic male gynaecologists, but mine did not belong in the profession of looking after women. I started speaking to friends and they reported having similar outcomes and decided to endure and try to get through it. I told them my story and told them not to give up as help was out there. It is a widespread issue that women are being gaslit by doctors. According to studies women wait 11 mins longer than men in the emergency department. Why is this?
Women continue to be undervalued and women’s health issues are not prioritized. We have made some steps in the right direction, but there is still a clear gender gap in healthcare.
With this in mind women have to be more vigilant than ever with their health. If something doesn’t feel right you get in and see your doctor. If you felt unheard the first time you go back and get a 2nd
and 3rd opinion if needed. You keep going until you get the answers you deserve. You are the only one that will advocate for yourself.
Thank you for reading my blog.
Stay tuned for more topics coming soon:
Working on the dollar store menu still. Recipes coming soon!!
Cooking on a budget
Exploring Women’s health issues
And many more!!!
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