I went for a cervical cancer test in July this year. I didn't have any sign or symptom that forced me to go do the test, but looking at the number of different types of cancer patients around me recently, I had to advise myself. The sad part of it was losing a distant relative to cancer recently, a beautiful young wife with three kids who lost her life after undergoing just her first chemotherapy. I mentioned before that I once had a breast lump in 2015, but thankfully, it wasn't cancerous, but the whole experience made me become more sensitive about my body.
As women, we can't go wrong with making our health a top priority amidst many responsibilities as a wife, mom, caregiver, etc., dragging us from all corners. Indeed, we have an obligation to take the best possible care of ourselves. I am sorry to say that my husband almost discouraged me from doing the cervical cancer test, but his words came from a place of fear. He was simply afraid of me returning home with one negative result,hehehe, but then, there are things that we shouldn't allow fear to override.
Imagine discovering a terminal disease so late out of fear? That would mean risking your life you know; think about it! Early detection has always proven to be a lifesaver! Meanwhile, I was fine after the test; nothing negative was discovered, and I was advised by the medical practitioner to keep observing the test once in a while. Good enough; they made it free in mother and child hospitals over here in Lagos State.
It's October, the pink month 💞💖, that moment when we remind ourselves of the importance of self-care and early detection as women. I saw some women's organizations on the 1st of October going round the streets over here campaigning and bringing cancer awareness to their fellow women. Even at the global level, awareness of breast cancer and menopause is usually active this month, and it's necessary that we make the most of it in checking ourselves.
I think that breast examination is something that should be done weekly or, at maximum, monthly, not necessarily going to the hospital before you can observe that. You can always do so on your own, especially lying on your back; take a tour of your breast with your hands and look out for anything strange. This was how I discovered a lump in my left breast back then, and the next morning, I reported myself to the hospital for further checks, medical diagnosis, and treatment.
From what I was told after my experience with a breast lump, checking for lumps during a woman's monthly cycle is the best time, and you shouldn't limit the check to your breast but extend it to your armpit. I believe that when we pay attention to our body, it will reduce possible health challenges. It's okay to be aware of our body and more okay to take action whenever the need be. Breast cancer is that scourge of a disease that women should strive to prevent from escalating, and it's more reason why early detection is never an option; it's a life saver!
On the other hand, menopause is another new beginning in the life of a woman. To me, it's just a transition and doesn't necessarily mean that femininity for you is over! Just see it as a natural phase in every woman's life. However, Some women in their menopause experience mood swings and some unusual feelings, but whatever the case may be for you, always speak up about that fear without bottling it up and seek help for a better living.
Above all, my amiable ladies, take charge of your health; don't delay those health checks any further, touch those breasts 😍, check them more often, look out for any strange substance, and take action, and do not forget to always talk about how you feel. Overall love and care for yourself without reservations.💖
Finally, to every woman who has lost her life to this disease, it's my prayer that your soul find eternal rest with your maker.
Interested in joining the ladies of Hive contest #258 ?, click here
Image 1 is mine designed using canva , other images were taken from canva
Posted Using INLEO
