As National Women’s Health Month arrives in May, healthcare professionals are sounding the alarm: women often neglect their physical and mental well-being while prioritizing others. Tammie Nemeth, executive director of Options Pregnancy Center, and nurse manager Vicki Rupert highlight a critical truth: “Women put everyone else first—husbands, children, parents—then forget to fill their own cups,” Rupert says.
The Dangerous Trend of Self-Neglect
Rupert notes a troubling pattern: women ignore early health signs, delaying screenings like mammograms and brushing off symptoms that could escalate. “They take on caregiving roles naturally, but this leads to putting their own health last,” she explains. Nemeth adds, “You can’t pour from an empty cup. Neglecting self-care is like letting a warranty expire—eventually, it breaks down.”
Data backs this up: women are twice as likely as men to experience major depression, and 1 in 5 face mental health issues
during or after pregnancy. Cancer kills 1 in 6 women, with those under 50 nearly twice as likely to develop cancer as men. Yet many skip routine check-ups, fearing they’ll “burden others” with their needs.
Breaking the Cycle: Self-Care as a Necessity
The pair emphasizes self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. “Whether you’re a CEO or a stay-at-home mom, you need to recharge,” Nemeth says. “Society pressures women to ‘do it all,’ but excellence in caregiving starts with caring for yourself.”
Rupert suggests practical steps:
Schedule non-negotiable me-time: Even 15 minutes daily for breathing exercises or a walk.
Prioritize screenings: Use apps to track mammograms, Pap tests, and wellness visits.
Address mental health: If depression or stress linger, seek therapy—“It’s not weakness, it’s wisdom.”
Technology has helped: pregnancy apps, cycle trackers, and telehealth make care more accessible. “Society is finally shedding taboos around women’s health,” Rupert notes. “Now we need action—start by asking, ‘Why am I putting this off?’”
Conquering Societal Pressures
Young women face unique struggles, torn between career ambition and family roles. “There’s no ‘right’ path,” Nemeth says. “Embrace your choice—whether working or staying home—and do it with grace. You aren’t competing; you’re living your purpose.”
Rupert warns against people-pleasing: “If your ‘why’ is based on others’ expectations, it leads to burnout. Find what fuels you, and protect that space.” For menopausal women (over 1 million annually in the U.S.), she advises talking to doctors about hormone balance and lifestyle adjustments.
5 Action Steps for Women’s Health:
- Schedule annual wellness checks—don’t skip them for others’ needs.
- Use apps (e.g., Flo, MyChart) to track screenings and symptoms.
- Practice 5-minute daily grounding—deep breaths, journaling, or stretching.
- Set boundaries—say “no” to non-essential commitments when overwhelmed.
- Find a support network—join a women’s health group or talk to a mentor.
This month, healthcare workers urge women to rewrite the narrative: self-care isn’t optional—it’s the foundation of healthy families, communities, and lives. As Nemeth says, “When you prioritize your health, everyone around you benefits.”
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