Cervical Health and Mental Well-being: A Woman's path to Wellness
Cervical and mental health are two crucial aspects of overall well-being for women. Cervical health refers to the well-being of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Mental health, on the other hand, encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Both are interconnected and can have a significant impact on a woman's overall health.
Cervical health is essential for women, as the cervix plays a vital role in reproductive health. It is also significant because cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary cause of cervical cancer, and regular screenings can help identify and treat HPV infections before they develop into cancer. Additionally, getting the HPV vaccine can lower the risk of developing cervical cancer if you are between 18 and 26 years of age. It's also important for women to practice a healthy lifestyle that includes smoking cessation, safe sex, and a balanced diet to reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
Nevertheless, mental health is just as crucial as physical health, and women need to prioritize their mental well-being. Women are more likely to experience anxiety and depression, especially during hormonal changes such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. It's important for women to recognize the signs of mental health issues and seek help when needed.
Maintaining mental well-being can be achieved through various strategies, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep. Additionally, engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as socializing with loved ones, practicing mindfulness, and seeking therapy or counseling, can significantly improve mental health.
The relationship between cervical and mental health is significant. Research has shown that women with a history of mental health disorders may have decreased screening rates for cervical cancer. Mental health issues can also impact a woman's ability to effectively manage their cervical health. It's important to address and understand the interconnectedness of both physical and mental well-being.
To prioritize both cervical health and mental health, women should practice self-care, and by that, we don’t mean taking a bath or listening to your favorite music. Self-care also means actively taking care of your health by seeking regular check-ups for cervical health, staying up-to-date with vaccinations, regular screenings, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, seeking mental health support when needed and engaging in activities that promote emotional well-being are crucial.
It's important to remember that taking care of one's physical and mental health is essential for overall well-being. By raising awareness and promoting education about cervical health and mental health in women, we can empower each other to take control of our well-being and prioritize health. Women should feel empowered to seek help and be proactive in maintaining both cervical and mental health.
Resources:
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/
https://www.cancertodaymag.org/
About the author: Andrea S. Fanta is a statewide Mental Health Extension Specialist. As part of the Integrated Health Disparities program, she provides evaluation, development, and implementation of programming to increase social justice in mental health. She has a master's degree in occupational therapy, and she is currently a doctoral fellow in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Andrea has vast experience working with families and actively collaborates with national and local coalitions to strengthen our communities.
The IHD program tackles health issues with an integrated lens of physical, mental, and community health, providing programs and resources to address health justice.