Busting Common Myths About Women's Health
Hello my friend! Welcome back to my slice of the world! I hope you are doing well, 8 whole days into the new year! Today let’s chat about those "old wives' tales" or common myths about women’s health. Let's debunk some common misconceptions with science-backed facts.
When I was pregnant with my first child, someone told me if I ate peanuts while pregnant the baby would be allergic to peanuts.. The funny thing is, Rj is allergic to peanuts LOL, but I’m sure that’s an old wives’ tale. Here’s another one… if you eat hot sauce while pregnant, the baby will be blind.
I’m sure you have heard old wives’ tales about pregnancy and a whole host of other things, when it comes to women’s health and wellness. So here are my top 5 myths..
Cellulite is fat… Cellulite is that lumpy, dimpled look you might see on your thighs, tummy, or other areas. It happens because of how the connective tissue beneath the skin is arranged.
Gaining weight can make it more obvious, but even slim women can have it. It's mostly about genetics – some of us are just more prone to it.
The best approach? Stay active and eat well, but don't stress too much about it. Cellulite is super common, and it doesn't mean there's anything wrong with your body.
Heart disease is a "man's disease." While it is true that men generally have a higher risk of heart disease than women. Women still are at risk, in fact heart disease is THE leading cause of death in women.
One in three women will die of heart disease here in the United States.
Team up with your doctor: Work together to keep tabs on your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
Find your healthy weight: Aim for a weight that feels good for you.
Fuel your body right: Eat a heart-healthy diet packed with fruits, veggies, and whole grains.
Get moving! Find ways to be active that you enjoy.
An underwire bra, can cause breast cancer. But the truth is, there's no real science to back that up. Some people worry that underwires might block lymph flow, but studies haven't found any connection to breast cancer.
Just because no one in your family has had breast cancer doesn't mean you're in the clear. It's important to do regular breast self-exams and let your doctor know right away if you notice any changes or lumps. Breast cancer can happen to anyone, no matter their age or family history.
Your OB/GYN will judge you.
Ladies, we've all been there! The GYN says, "Just a little bit more..." and you're thinking, "OMG, I'm about to topple off this table! And did I mention how incredibly awkward this whole situation feels?
It's totally understandable to feel nervous about talking to your doctor, especially if you think they might judge you. But trust me, they've heard it all before. They're there to help, not to judge. Opening up is the first step to getting the support you need.
Very few women suffer from postpartum depression. Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common challenge for new moms. Up to 1 in 7 women experience it after giving birth – that's around 15%. For many of these moms, it's their first experience with depression. And some may have even noticed signs of depression while they were still pregnant.
If you're feeling down or struggling with depression, it's crucial to reach out for support – especially after having a baby. Ignoring it can make things worse. Remember, it's okay to not be okay. You're not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength. If you need mental health support, remember the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It's available 24/7.
Let me know if you have any questions or if you'd like to discuss this further. I'm always here to chat. Until next time.. Next Wednesday!
Love & light,
Jazz


