With 2021 on the horizon, more women than ever before are looking to the new year with resolutions of being healthier. Although maintaining our health has always been considered important in the abstract sense, most New Year’s resolutions are unintentionally forgotten or ignored as the month of January rolls on. However, because of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the idea of becoming or staying healthy has become much more prominent in our collective consciousness. Here are our tips for how women can improve and maintain their health in 2021.
Improve Your Lifestyle
One of the best things you can do for your health is to improve your lifestyle. This means adopting better eating habits, being more physically active, and ending bad habits, such as smoking.
When it comes to eating healthy for women, the Office on Women’s Health recommends a diet that consists of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, grains, dairy, and healthy fats. As for exercise, you don’t have to become the next Jillian Michaels – adding a brisk 30-minute walk to your daily routine is a small change that can have a tremendously positive impact on your health.
Schedule Your Annual Gynecologist Exam
While it may be tempting to skip a trip to the gynecologist, you really can’t be in charge of your health without it. Not only does your annual exam help maintain vaginal health, but it also works as a preventative health measure. For example, pap smears help detect precancerous tissues and protect against cervical cancer. Your doctor will also provide you with a professional breast exam, which helps detect underlying health issues.
Furthermore, your annual exam gives you a chance to ask questions about anything that you’re concerned about. Maybe you’re thinking about changing your birth control, concerned about your period symptoms, have questions about sexual health, or want more information about menopause management. These are all subjects that your gynecologist can help you with.
Think About Your Family-Planning Goals
Whether you’re ready to start a family or want to put it off, it’s never too early to start thinking about what your family-planning goals are. If you’re not ready yet, talking to your gynecologist can help you make educated decisions about your birth control and sex habits. On the other hand, if you want to start trying to conceive in the near future, your gynecologist can provide preconception counseling.
From all of us at Pacific Gynecology & Obstetrics Medical Group, we hope that 2021 is your healthiest year yet. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.
