"A Women's Month Dialogue: The Intricate Dance of Stress and Female Hormones"

"Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation," once said Audre Lorde, a reminder that rings especially true in the context of women's health. Our health is a complex tapestry intricately woven with hormonal changes, life stages, and the unique challenges each stage presents.

From the onset of menstruation to the journey through pregnancy, to menopause and beyond, each stage has its health implications. These shifts in hormonal balance, like menopause, are not just about the cessation of periods but can lead to various symptoms that affect our physical and mental health. It's important to understand these changes to navigate them better.

Stress, another facet of our lives, has far-reaching effects on our physical health and hormones. Burnout is real, and prolonged stress can disrupt our hormonal balance, leading to health issues ranging from sleep problems to heart diseases. Chronic stress has a uniquely pervasive impact on female hormonal health. When stressors are present, our bodies produce higher levels of cortisol, a hormone released by the adrenal glands. This hormone plays a crucial role in our 'fight or flight' response, but when continuously elevated due to chronic stress, it can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones in a woman's body.

For instance, stress can influence the menstrual cycle. Over time, high levels of cortisol can suppress normal levels of reproductive hormones, leading to abnormal ovulation, missed periods, or even premature menopause. Research also suggests a connection between stress and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age.

Further, stress can exacerbate the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as mood swings, fatigue, and depression. In pregnant women, high levels of stress can even affect the health of the unborn baby, potentially leading to premature birth and low birth weight. Lastly, during menopause, when hormonal fluctuations are already significant, stress can intensify common symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Understanding the interconnectedness of stress and hormonal health underscores the importance of stress management in women's health.

Navigating through these hormonal journeys and their resulting health challenges, I realized that the first step towards taking control of our health is understanding our bodies. That lesson became all the more vital two years ago, in July 2021, when I embarked on a journey that many women dread – I was diagnosed with breast cancer.

The following two years of treatments, recovery, and adaptation were a roller-coaster. Days were tough, and nights were sometimes tougher, but one thing that held me together was the fantastic support I received from my loved ones and healthcare team. Their belief in my strength became my stronghold.

Today, I stand one year post treatment, and I've realized that while treatments can end, you're never quite the same person you were before. You evolve into someone stronger, braver - a warrior shaped by the battle you've been through. Through this journey, I learned some valuable lessons. When you feel something unusual in your breast, don't hesitate, don't procrastinate. Make an appointment to see your doctor immediately. Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment significantly, so don't gamble with time.

Your oncology team becomes your allies, your warriors in this battle so choose them wisely, and don't hesitate to take the help of your doctor in doing so. When you sit down for your first meeting with your oncologist, remember it's a dialogue, not a monologue. Discuss all your options and question the standard protocols if you feel the need. It's your body, and you have the right to understand and choose what's best for you.

One of the unsaid battles in this journey is loneliness. Find a friend or join a support group who has been through breast cancer. It's comforting to know that someone else understands what you're going through, and it helps to have someone to call when the going gets tough.

Maintaining a positive mindset is common advice but let me tell you, it's not always easy, and that's okay. You're allowed to feel scared, to cry, to scream. But remember, while it's okay to visit those feelings, don't set up camp there. A negative mindset can hinder your recovery and affect your mental health. Allow yourself to grieve but also remind yourself of the strength within you.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, remember that a breast cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence. There are amazing treatment options available today, and with a strong support system, it is a battle you can fight and win.

If you're walking this path, know that you're not alone. If you have questions or need someone to talk to, feel free to reach out. As we celebrate Women's Month, let's continue to promote a culture of health awareness and mutual support. Let's create a culture of health awareness and mutual support, not just this Women's Month but every day of our lives. Because we are stronger together, and no one should have to walk this path alone.

#WomensMonth #BreastCancerAwareness #StrongerTogether #Womenshealth #Wellness #selfcare