October brings awareness to several significant issues affecting women: Breast Cancer, Menopause, and Domestic Violence. These causes each highlight critical aspects of women’s health and safety, emphasizing the importance of knowledge, support, and proactive action. Here’s how you can better understand each of these topics and what you can do to support yourself and others.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, making awareness, early detection, and self-care essential. One of the simplest and most effective ways to catch breast cancer early is through regular breast self-exams (BSE).
When to Perform a BSE: Women should perform a breast self-exam once a month, preferably a few days after their period ends, when the breasts are less swollen or tender. For postmenopausal women, selecting the same day each month can help maintain consistency.
How to Perform a BSE:
- Stand in front of a mirror with your hands on your hips. Look for any changes in size, shape, or color of the breasts, or any visible swelling or dimpling.
- Raise your arms and look for the same changes.
- Use the pads of your fingers to feel each breast in a circular motion, covering the entire breast and armpit area. Apply light, medium, and firm pressure to detect any lumps or thickened tissue.
- Repeat the process lying down to ensure a thorough exam.
For more detailed guidance, visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s self-exam page.
Menopause Awareness Month
Menopause is a natural phase of a woman’s life, but it’s often misunderstood. The transition begins with perimenopause, typically occurring in women’s late 40s to early 50s, where hormone levels fluctuate and can cause irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Full menopause is defined as 12 consecutive months without a period, often accompanied by symptoms like vaginal dryness, weight gain, and decreased libido.
Mitigating Menopause Symptoms:
- Diet and Exercise: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help minimize symptoms such as weight gain and hot flashes.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): For many women, HRT can balance hormone levels, providing relief from severe symptoms. Consult with a healthcare provider to see if this is right for you.
- Lubricants and Creams: Pure Romance offers products like Just Like Me lubricant to help soothe vaginal dryness and discomfort during intimacy. Use a couple pumps twice a day as a vaginal moisturizer. It helps keep those tissues soft and supple and helps to alleviate the itchiness and other uncomfortable symptoms of vaginal dryness.
For further information, check out The North American Menopause Society.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Domestic violence is an all-too-common issue, with 1 in 3 women experiencing some form of intimate partner violence during their lifetime. It can manifest in physical, emotional, or psychological abuse, and often goes unnoticed even by close friends and family.
Recognizing the Signs: Look for unexplained injuries, frequent absences from work or social events, low self-esteem, or sudden changes in behavior. Victims may become isolated or seem overly anxious about their partner’s reaction to everyday situations.
Advice for Victims: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, know that help is available. Confide in a trusted friend or family member, and seek out local shelters or hotlines that provide support and legal assistance. Leaving an abusive relationship is often dangerous, so planning carefully with the help of professionals is key.
For more resources, visit The National Domestic Violence Hotline or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Empower Yourself Through Awareness
This October, take the opportunity to learn more about breast cancer, menopause, and domestic violence. Stay informed, support those around you, and prioritize your health and safety.
Thanks for reading, Trish
