Women’s Healthcare: 10 Tips That Your Mom Didn’t Tell You

When you were growing up, there was one lady who you turned to when you needed advice – MOM!

Even today I find myself reaching for a phone and calling home when I need guidance about pretty much anything. While moms are always a great resource, if there was an area where her help fell short, it probably had to do with your healthcare.

Even the most well-meaning moms can find healthcare tips hard to talk about.

That’s where this post comes in.

Some of these tips were irrelevant when you were a kid but are important now that you’re aging. Others were probably a little too embarrassing to talk about with Mom in the first place.

Either way, here are 10 useful healthcare tips that your mom probably didn’t tell you.

Tip #1 – Regular Doctor Visits Are REALLY Important

 

Once upon a time, your mom probably set up all of your appointments for you. A visit to the doctor also meant one thing – an afternoon off of school (yay!).

Now that you’re older, this responsibility about healthcare falls into your own hands.

And if you’re like lots of women out there, you’re not great at scheduling regular appointments yourself.

Seeing a doctor regularly is actually so important when it comes to your overall healthcare. Experts recommend seeing a doctor once a year.

Even if you feel healthy, these visits will ensure your health is regularly monitored. That way, if something does pop up you’ll catch it sooner rather than later.

Seeing the OB-GYN for a pelvic exam or pap smear is also imperative when it comes to your health. Sure, it’s not the most relaxing appointment in the world.

But keeping track of your reproductive health is extremely beneficial – especially if you plan on getting pregnant someday. According to doctors, women ages 21-65 should see their doctor for a pelvic exam at least every three years.

 

Tip #2 – Sun Safety Is Key

 

Mom probably was great about slathering you with sunscreen when you were little. Chances are, however, she wasn’t 100% forthcoming about how important sun safety is as you age.

UV rays are a leading cause of premature aging (study).

When you get older, you’ll be kicking yourself for worshiping the sun during your teens and 20s. But it’s never too late to turn it all around.

Start applying sunscreen daily, even if you don’t plan on spending an extended amount of time in the sun.

Appearances aside, sun safety can also keep you from developing skin cancer. Starting now, pay attention to your skin and take note of any moles or birthmarks you currently have.

If you find that they start to change color, shape, or size, be sure to bring this up at your annual doctor’s appointment. Early detection of skin cancer is one of the best ways to beat it.

 

Tip #3 – Check Yourself for Breast Cancer

Speaking of cancer, Breast Cancer is an important topic that moms sometimes don’t cover with their daughters. As you age, this type of cancer should definitely be on your radar.

It’s estimated that 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. Over 250,000 new cases were reported in 2019 alone.

To combat this, get to know your breasts ASAP. Becoming familiar with the way they feel while healthy will make it easier to identify if anything changes in the future.

Another way to ensure early detection is to go to regularly go to an annual appointment with your physician.

 

Tip #4 – Shaving Made Easy

 

Moms usually teach their daughters about shaving. But usually, they just cover the basics and leave it at that. Now that you’re an adult, it’s time to take your shaving routine to the next level.

Smooth, bump-free legs require a little extra care than just a quick shave in the shower.

Using a body scrub is an easy way to prep your legs. When you exfoliate beforehand, dead skin cells are swept away. This means that your razor can give you an even closer shave.

Also, don’t be afraid to swap out your ladies’ razor for one from the men’s department. It might not be pink, but men’s razors often have more blades and provide a closer shave

 

Tip #5 – Safeguard Your Smile

Brushing twice a day is one of those basics that everyone knows about. If you want to safeguard your smile for years to come, you’ll want to make sure your dental hygiene is on-point.

Flossing every day is something that most people forget to do. If you aren’t a fan of flossing, at the very least switch to an electric toothbrush – most newer models will thoroughly clean your teeth and help prevent gum disease.

Regular dental cleanings are another thing that many women forget about.

Putting this high on your priority list is incredibly important. Just like frequent doctor visits, they’ll be able to spot problems before they start.

Plus, nothing beats the comprehensive cleaning you get at a dentist’s office.

Tip #6 – Have Sex As Often As Possible

 

Sex is one of those topics that can make even the “coolest” moms uncomfortable. That means this tip is one that your mom most likely didn’t cover.

Having sex (safely and with a trusted partner, of course) can be incredibly beneficial in a number of ways. When you have an orgasm, your brain releases hormones that boost your emotional well-being and decrease overall stress.

Some experts say that orgasms can also improve your immune system and lengthen your lifespan.

If you find yourself without a partner, don’t be afraid to do it yourself. Get comfortable with your body by trying out new toys or techniques.

While sex is still one of those “taboo” topics, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with learning about your body.

After all, it can help you live longer!

Tip #7 – Sleep Is Super Important

Most people discount how important sleep is.

Even when you know it’s important to get a full 8-hours, it can be hard to fit that into an already packed schedule.

Our addiction to screen time and caffeinated beverages can also ruin our sleep schedule, and healthcare, and leave us feeling groggy in the morning.

To help you get the shut-eye you deserve, experts recommend turning your bedroom into a comfortable oasis. Remove any sources of light – including a TV – and invest in a quality pillow and mattress.

93 percent of Gen-Z admit staying up past their bedtimes on TikTok (study).

Scrolling on your phone is more harmful than it seems. The blue light on smartphones disrupts your ability to fall asleep.

Make it a goal to decrease Insta & Tiktok scrolling right before falling asleep.

 

Tip #8 – Get Positive, Stay Positive

The next few tips focus on mental rather than physical health, which is equally as important. Everyone goes through difficult periods in life, but when it comes right down to it, attitude is everything.

A positive outlook on life does more than just reduce stress and lower rates of depression. It can also be good for your heart and make you more resistant to catching a common cold.

Keeping a positive outlook on life starts with positive thinking. There are also plenty of other changes you can make to improve your quality of life.

Although it may be difficult, limiting your interactions with toxic friends or family members can help you get to a better place mentally. Similarly, volunteering at an organization you’re passionate about can help you feel much better

One of the best ways to improve your outlook, however, is to get a pet. It doesn’t matter if you’re a cat or a dog person.

Having a pet has been shown to lower blood pressure, decrease feelings of stress, and help you have a more positive outlook on life.

Plus, there are plenty of loveable rescue animals who are ready to boost your mood.

Tip #9 – Never Stop Learning

When most of us graduate, it’s a relief to finally kiss homework goodbye forever. While this may feel good for a little while, it’s important to never stop learning new things.

Studies have shown that learning new things as an adult can make us feel more satisfied in life. Depending on the activity or environment, it can also broaden our horizons and introduce us to new people who can positively impact our lives.

Increasing brain function can be as simple as picking up a new book. It doesn’t even matter what it’s about – the act of reading alone can help improve memory and cognitive ability and this is healthcare.

If you’re feeling more ambitious, consider enrolling in a language class or taking up a new sport at a rec center.

 

Tip #10 – Be Careful When It Comes to Body Image

Don’t blame your mom if she left this one out of her “life lessons” list. Positive body image is something that most women struggle with.

Although society is slowly getting better, it can be hard not to judge your body against an impossible standard. Feeling bad about your weight can lead to crash dieting, mistreating diet pills, and other unhealthy practices.

To combat this, focus on overall healthcare rather than obsessing over a number on a scale. Also, try to never say (or think) anything about your body that you wouldn’t say to a best friend or loved one.

Body image doesn’t just have to do with weight. Photo filters are also altering the way that many women judge their own reflection in the mirror.

That’s why plastic surgery, fillers, and Botox are only increasing in popularity.

While there’s nothing wrong with improving your appearance, keep in mind that no treatments will change the way you feel about yourself on the inside.

Self-love, healthcare, and a positive inner monologue are the best way to feel more comfortable in your own skin.