New Year, New You

Are you a die hard resolution maker?

Do you think it's the biggest waste of time, or do you fall somewhere in between the rustling of the calendar change.

I know for many, it has been a difficult year, and resolutions or not, we can't wait to say 'Goodbye' to 2018.  For many more people I know, some of the most amazing opportunities and blessings have presented themselves this year.

Personally, I'm always eager to start something new and that includes resolutions.  The list of all the things we hope to accomplish in the coming year can be lengthy and lofty.  Sometimes, I am still going strong a couple of months into the new year, but if I'm being honest, nothing really evolves past the first week in January.

So, what are some alternatives to a resolution that might spare you the guilt of failing miserable with some heartfelt goals?

Here's a list we've compiled:

Word of the Year: Choose a word you want to focus on for the year.  It could be JOY, GRATITUDE, GIVING, PEACE...You get the idea.  Focus on bringing more of that, into your life.

What you got right: Instead of starting the year with all the ways we need to be better, how about starting the year with a list of all the things you got right?  Why start the year on such a negative note, with line by line shortcomings?

Gratitude:  Commit the year to being grateful for you what you have and what you are.  Consider that you are enough.   It's one of the important concepts to living a full and abundant life yet we don't do it enough...consistently.

Weekly Resolutions:  Doing anything for a year, feels daunting.  Why not make little weekly resolutions to make bigger life changes.  Let's face it, no one's life actually changes all that much due to a resolution, but smaller weekly goals, actually could.

Start Something New:  Start a new hobby or activity that you have always wanted to do.  Sometimes, the hardest thing to do is start!

However you decide to start the new year, do it your way, with purpose and conviction.  You know, you could even start 2019 by doing nothing!  Absolutely Nothing.  Just let the year unfold as it will and watch with excitement, what comes next. 

Anxiety

You don't have to look far to find someone with anxiety, even severe anxiety.  It's becoming shockingly common, more common than it has seemed to be in the past. 

There's a looming deadline and your stomach is doing somersaults and your brain refuses to stop spinning, even for a minute. 

It's only the second week in the month and you have 20 bucks to your name and you're sitting on the side of the road with a flat tire. 

The baby is due any day and you had no idea one could be quite so nervous.

The doctor said you are going to need a hysterectomy and fall apart in a puddle of tears.  

Ugh...Anxiety...

Well congratulations!  If you have ever been anxious and uptight about any of the above scenarios, you're normal!  While you may feel anxious in moments such as these, they are regular comings and goings of life and it makes sense to feel a little dread now and again. A little healthy anxiety in our cave men ancestors actually helped them survive dangerous or difficult situations. 

Anxiety, the kind that requires medical intervention is much different. 

It's been three weeks since you left the house because the thought of people keeps you stuck to the couch.

You have constant thoughts of looming danger.

You wash your hands excessively and avoid touching things in public in an effort to stay healthy. 

These examples are disorders of Anxiety.  How do you tell the difference between life and an anxiety disorder?  

• Nervousness, worry and fear is ongoing
• The feeling of anxiousness is not proportionate to the cause
• Intrusive thoughts that overtake your ability to function normally
• Extreme, or exaggerated negative thoughts. 
• Worrying about a future thought

Anxiety is one of the most common mental disorders in this country and affects over 40 million adults.  Of all those people, only a third actually seek medical attention.  Even though it is so common, it is also a disorder that is the most misunderstood. 

Medical professionals and scientists who study anxiety all suggest the following ways to cope with your anxiety.

• Learn deep breathing techniques to help you relax and calm down.  Deep breathing does wonders to lower your heart rate and blood pressure.
• Keep your head where your body is.  Projecting fear and worry too far into the future will exacerbate your anxiety.  Stay mindful, in the moment...Wherever you are, is where you should be.
• Stop and say out loud, something you see, something you hear and something you smell.  It may seem like a small thing but helps to keep you anchored to something real, rather than imagined in your mind. 
• Don't self medicate with alcohol, caffeine or recreational drugs.  Get plenty of sleep and eat healthy, nutritious food.
• Understand what some of your triggers are.  Educating yourself on your condition goes a long way.  
• Search out a support network when you are going through difficult times.  Being alone can often make things worse.
• Talk to your healthcare provider and discuss your symptoms and treatment options. 

Almost New

Well, a new year is upon us.  How do you get ready to start a new year?  Do you, like everyone, make a plan that will surely fail?  I mean, not to be a downer but isn't that the routine we set ourselves up for? Is it inevitable?  Statistics show that 92% of all resolutions fail!! Are there resolutions that work?

Here are some ideas on planning a successful new year...

• Start small.  There's something about Auld Lang Syne that gets us all fired up and ready to change - everything! Resist the urge.  Choose just a couple of things to focus on.
• Write it down and make a plan.  We are really good at stating what we want but no plan for the journey of getting there.  Do you want to save money?  Writing that down isn't enough.  Plan out the details of saving money...how much will you want to save?  Are you willing to skip your favorite beverage addiction in lieu of saving a $4 a day?  
• Work the plan.  Have your goals and plans written where you can see them everyday.  The things we keep our attention on become the things that develop in our life.  Intention and attention is the secret to New Years success. 
• Do it now.  Procrastination is powerful.  Instead of saying to yourself, "I'll get to it after I do the dishes.", say, "I'll do it now."  Most tasks seem daunting when left in our head but the actual time it takes to accomplish that can require much less time if we just tackle it with vigor. 
• Forget about all or nothing.  We sabotage so many life goals by thinking we need to arrive with perfection intact.  Not so.  When flying a plane, pilots know that most of the time, the plane is straying off course and each moment requires a course correction.  So it is with us...veering from our plan doesn't mean an imminent fail.  Sticking to it is the thing that matters most. 

Whatever you want in life, it's yours.  It's yours if you are willing to change your mindset just a bit and keep those plans on your radar.  

So, what are the things you have planned for your New Year?

Don't Panic

We are headed into one of the most stressful seasons of the year...the Holiday season.  What we hope will be a month of giving and caring can often resemble more panic and overwhelm, as our list of things to do grows exponentially each day.   No matter what our well intention thoughts are, life can take a toll.

So, how do we avoid anxiety and panic during this party planning, gift buying, giving and spreading the light kind of month?

• Make a plan.  Keep it simple and reasonable.  
• Stay organized.  Lists can be burdensome but they do help to keep it all from getting muddled inside your head. 
• Know your limits.  It isn't a badge of honor to do more than you physically or mentally can. 
• Practice good sleep hygiene.  Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.  
• Take a break from traditions that create too much stress. Maybe it's time to create something new.
• Say no.  Remember that "No" is a complete sentence.  Though some people think they need an explanation along with a No, they don't. 
• No one is perfect, including you. Your friend's Instagram posts may look perfect, but they aren't so don't believe everything you see.  Say yes to being human this holiday season.  

If you have a history of anxiety and depression, just knowing that this time of year may not be your best time of year, is half the battle.  Only expect of yourself what you know you can manage.  Your family would rather have a calm, rested mother than one who is anxious and always in a panic.  This is not the season of guilt and shame, it's the season of new beginnings, hope and peace...not just on earth but in your heart and mind as well.  

So, make this Christmas season different.  Start some new traditions that truly do bring an extra measure of peace and hope as we inch closer to 2019. 

The Making of Postpartum Depression

We look at perfect pictures of new moms, their make up is done, not a hair on their head is left uncurled.  A sweet, sleeping infant lies in their arms and by all accounts, this is the happiest moment of all.

What you don't see when the camera is focused elsewhere, is the anxiety, depression, fatigue...the overwhelming fatigue!  Welcome to postpartum!  Now,  for some women, this never becomes an issue but for a greater and growing number of women, having a baby is the hardest kind of work that no one ever tells you about.

It's pretty much common sense that creating a human being is hard and stresses a woman's body.  Somehow, even as women, we think that delivering that perfect little baby is the end of our pregnancy journey...For some, the hard work is just beginning.

Interesting things happen after childbirth.

• With the delivery of the placenta, progesterone levels plummet!  Almost immediately.  We love progesterone because it actually elevates mood.
• Estrogen remains high which results in a hormone imbalance between progesterone and estrogen.  Another term for this is estrogen dominance.
• Estrogen dominance looks like panic attacks, anxiety, depression, 
• Estrogen that is too high also prevents cortisol, our stress hormone from getting where it needs to be, in our cells, so our cortisol levels drop.  We get a double whammy because progesterone,plays a critical role in producing cortisol as well. 
• The adrenals are the back up gland to the ovaries so with low progesterone, high estrogen, low cortisol and the adrenals doubling up on work, they become fatigued and even burnt out. 
• All this hormone imbalance results in many of the symptoms you feel with postpartum depression. 

So, what can be done?

Well, it's important to understand why you are feeling the way you are.  You aren't going crazy, your body is finding it's way back to a healthy, balanced state after working so hard for 9 months.  The number one thing you can do is make sure you are getting enough sleep.  Sleep is important for resting the adrenals.  Of course, eating healthy whole foods is critically important as well.  The cruciferous family of vegetables are an excellent choice for estrogen dominance.  Vitamin B6 and Magnesium help process all of that extra estrogen and can help relieve the symptoms of postpartum depression.  A good, plant based Vitamin C raises progesterone levels over time.  

It's important to be watchful when dealing with postpartum depression.  Symptoms can escalate quickly so, visit with your doctor, and if needed, get some additional support through pharmaceuticals until things settle down.  The duration of postpartum symptoms varies between women so be patient and kind with yourself.   

How Cholesterol Can Keep You Out of Trouble

All we ever hear about Cholesterol is bad.  It's like the kid down the street your mom never let you play with..."Stay away from Cholesterol!"  She would yell as we ran out to play, door slamming behind us.  

Cholesterol is not bad...at least in extreme amounts but did you know that it has some vitally important functions?  Our bodies actually make 75% of our cholesterol.  Cholesterol is the raw material needed, in order to produce hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, cortisol, serotonin and more.  It also helps us generate Vitamin D.  Having adequate cholesterol successfully transports the fat soluble vitamins A,D,E,K.   Generally speaking, cholesterol helps us feel good, hopeful, and healthy. 

So, what does our body use to generate all this cholesterol?  Well, its probably not what you think or what you've been told.  It uses refined carbs and sugar.  Stress is another big contributor to high cholesterol.  Cortisol is produced in the adrenals in order to help us handle our stress.  When we deal poorly with stress, our adrenals call for an increase in cortisol.  Cholesterol hears the call and cranks out more and more in order to meet the cortisol demands...so, our cholesterol numbers rise. 

Over the years, the powers that be continue to lower the acceptable cholesterol number. When was the last time you heard anyone talk about the risks of low cholesterol?  We rarely talk about the side effects of not having enough cholesterol but did you know that low cholesterol can be just as detrimental?  

Low Cholesterol can result in the following:

• 700% increase in colon cancer
• Heart and circulation problems
• Ulcers
• Dizziness and Arrhythmia
• Increase in cancers

The bottom line is, we need to keep our health in balance.  Too much of a good thing is just as bad as too little.   If you are having high cholesterol problems, talk to your doctor.  Start managing your stress and eat a diet full of whole, vitamin rich foods, and as usual, watch your intake of sugary, refined carbs.  Remember, always check with your doctor before stopping or starting any medication

Seeing the Good

This is a phrase we hear a lot these days- 'Making a Difference'.  There's a fair amount of pressure to make a difference...like we have to have some huge, passion project in order to deem ourselves 'worthy' of whatever the worthy thing of the day is; as if getting out of bed wasn't enough!

Instead of worrying about changing the world, perhaps we could start by changing how we feel about our own little corner of existence, the work we do in our hearts, when no one is looking. 
How often do you spend a little time with yourself?  Do you even remember what you are all about as you hurry and scurry making everyone else happy?  We often get lost in the amazing opportunities and good luck happening next door, or down the street and we fixate on that, never noticing the little by little transformations we have made in our own lives.

We are hardwired for negativity and at times, it can feel as though there is not one good thing, big enough, to erase all the bad things we think we are made of.   It's time to show up to our lives with a little more courage.  I love these thoughts by Jim Cathcart:

• Know and respect your nature
• Know how you are smart
• What do you care about?
• What drives you?
• Know the patterns in your choices

When we truly know ourselves, we can better navigate the world and make decisions and choices for us, rather than what the world thinks is right.  We all have an internal navigation system but we have to know and trust ourselves first.  Part of transforming ourselves is understanding what makes us tick. When this connection is made, great things happen!  You may even surprise yourself at what you can accomplish.  

Being a woman is hard work.  We are born into this life with a set of expectations from an unforgiving world but we have more to offer than we think.  We want to see you shine!!  

The Insider's Guide to Stress

You have two choices when it comes to stress...

1.  Deal with it

2.  Let it deal with you.

Most of us accept choice two by default and we may even wear our stress like a badge of honor, bragging to our friends about how two hours of sleep really isn't that bad because Kevin's science fair project looks Ahh-mazing!

The most annoying sentence out of a doctor's mouth is, "You need to start managing your stress better."  What's a girl to do when you are doing your very best and life comes at you fast?  Let's be honest, stuffing a handful of Kale in your mouth as you shove a van sized, gaggle of kids out the door for dance, soccer and piano, is not managing anything.  And when your boss stacks up the work of three on your desk at 4:45, expletives under your breath is also not managing anything.

Let's be real.  Living a stress free life happened about 4 decades ago and is extinct and it really doesn't matter what phase of life you are in, old or young, healthy or otherwise, life is stressful.  How it looks is different for everyone, but the side effects are the same ravaging ones if you aren't careful.

Here's an interesting thing about stress...It is accumulative.  Stressful events you experienced 10 years ago change you physiologically and those negative changes remain in your cells.  Our adrenals are the organs designed to handle the stress but even they can only handle so much before they burn out, if we aren't careful.

This is what happens when you are exposed to chronic stress...

• Cortisol, a hormone made in the adrenals, increases. 
• You decide if you're going to fight or flee.
• Even if you aren't being chased by a bear, your body is going to think you are and it will respond accordingly...your heart rate will increase, your blood pressure will go up, breathing will become fast, and your muscles will tighten.
• Cortisol will tap into your protein stores in the liver and convert it to glucose to give you a shot of quick energy. 

In a normal, healthy person, the stressful moment will end and your body will return to it's normal, resting state, but imagine if all day, every day, you were being chased by a bear?  Your body can't keep engaging in this process to keep you alive, without long term damage and effects.  What results from chronic stress is...

• Weight gain
• Fatigue
• Brain Fog
• Decreased B Vitamins
• Inflammation
• Impaired immune system
• Hormonal imbalance
• Insomnia
• Obsessive thinking
• Anxiety
• Muscle cramps

The list goes on and long my friend and many of you know what we are talking about here, firsthand.   Here are some realistic and helpful ways to start managing your stress before it manages you. 

• Sleep.  It's the number one, most important thing you can do for your body.  Get 7-8 hours of natural sleep.  At first that may not be possible due to the stress load on your adrenals so nap when you can. 
• Restore nutrition.  We say it all the time but nutrition is the basis of good health.  Eat foods high in B Vitamins and Potassium.  Unfortified Nutritional Yeast is a good source of B Vitamins. 
• Ask your doctor about Magnesium and Calcium supplements...these are calming minerals and relax the muscles
• Acupressure.  One of the best methods to release built up stress in the body is Acupressure.  Certain pressure points in the body release the unhealthy tension. 
• Connect with people, devices and social media...actually spend time with people...in person. 
• Create pockets of space in a day to breathe deeply and take a walk.  Walking outside is one of the best exercises a stressed person can engage in.  

When our providers at Madison Women's Clinic suggest we get our stress under control, they mean business!  Take their advice to heart, for the sake of your good health and sanity.  If you aren't sure where to start or what that looks like, let them know!  Madison Women's Clinic is here for you! 

Ready for Baby

If you've had a baby or getting ready for your first, you know there is a lot to do!  There is so much information out there it can be overwhelming.  And while it is important to get all the little things, diapers, wipes, bouncy things and such, it's important to get all the correct information you can about getting baby here safely.

That's where Madison Women's Clinic comes in to play.  Not only do we offer amazing prenatal care, but we also offer birthing classes!  Whether it's your first or your fifth, it's a great idea to attend one of our series.

Here is what we will cover in our three week series of birthing classes.

Week 1-
Final trimester fun! Oh, and symptoms of labor
What you can expect to find in a labor suite
Pain management
Vaginal Delivery vs Operative Delivery
Post Delivery

Week 2-
Common problems in labor
Mother/Baby unit as well as the nursery
Anesthesia options
A virtual tour of Madison Memorial
Operative Delivery

Week 3-
Breathing and Relaxation Techniques
Breast feeding and lactation
Postpartum conception
New Born care

Our classes are taught by our capable and caring nurses with a wealth of knowledge, experience, skill, and compassion.  Not only will you learn a lot but you will have more confidence in your ability to have a great birthing experience.  We welcome all your questions and concerns and will help you navigate each step of the process.

Another advantage to a birthing class with Madison Women's clinic is that you get to bring your partner along so you are learning together.  Meeting with other expectant mothers creates an atmosphere of connection which also helps in keeping you calm and confident as you embark on this new chapter of life.

We look forward to connecting with you and sharing in the great experience of childbirth.  Give the office a call for more details and a Fall schedule. 208*356*6185

The Gene Pool

If you're a woman, you've probably heard all about the BRCA gene or at least heard enough to make you feel more than a little anxious.  Together, let's figure out what it is and what it isn't.

BRCA; it stands for BReast CAncer susceptibility gene.  There are two BRCA genes; BRCA 1 and BRCA 2.  Every woman has the BRCA genes but not every woman has mutations in these genes.  It's the mutation that makes you more susceptible to breast cancer AND ovarian cancer than those women who do not have the mutations.  Even still, having the BRCA mutations doesn't mean that you certainly will get breast or ovarian cancer.   Inherited mutations only play a role in breast or ovarian cancer 5% of the time.  There are so many other factors that contribute to the growth of cancer.  (

Here's how it works.  The BRCA gene has a job to suppress breast cancer.  If you were born with a mutation in one of the genes, it means that your risks may increase, not that you will surely get cancer because you still have one good gene that compensates, and in a sense, puts the brakes on cancer growth.  There are environmental factors that can affect these genes.  If, for example, carcinogens damage the second gene, then your risks will increase again. Having the gene mutations alone does not cause cancer.  Remember that!

These facts are important to understand before you choose testing.  Many women do the BRCA testing and panic when they see a positive result.  This can lead some, to unnecessary surgeries and psychological distress.  Test results like this will change your world but do you know what else will change your world...Focusing on what you can do! 

There are far more environmental factors and the way we care for our own bodies that have a more lasting, negative effect on our cancer health than gene mutations do. Don't lose focus of that.  Be proactive in your health whether you have the gene mutations or not.  Start with getting your nutrition to a healthier state.  Find better ways to manage your stress and make sure you are getting a decent amount of sleep.  Getting healthy and nourished will have lasting health benefits.

To learn more you can visit:
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet#q3
http://www.councilforresponsiblegenetics.org/ViewPage.aspx?pageId=180

So, how do you move forward?

1.  Understand about the BRCA gene
2.  Know your risks and share your family history with your healthcare provider.
3.  Test your genes if there is a strong cancer line in your family, and after you have discussed this            with your doctor.
4.  Seek genetic counseling if needed.

Above all else, don't panic if you do happen to have the mutation.  Education, prudent screenings and healthy living will help ensure you live a long happy and healthy life.

Why live with urge incontinence?

It's not something we talk about every day but maybe we should...

Urinary incontinence.  You aren't alone if this is a struggle for you.  If anything, you are part of a large majority of women who suffer with this embarrassing problem.  It's not easy to even know how to talk to your doctor about the subject but now, we've made it easy to start the dialogue with your healthcare provider at Madison Women's Clinic.  Simply make an appointment and say to your provider, "Tell me about Geneveve."  It's that easy!

Geneveve is the newest addition at Madison Women's Clinic, serving women with urinary incontinence as well as urge incontinence.  What is urge incontinence you ask?

Urge incontinence is the second most common form of incontinence, accounting for roughly 3 out of 10 cases.  It often starts prior to menopause, even as early as the 30's.   It feels like a sudden and strong urge to urinate.  Some women experience leaking of urine if the bladder contracts when it shouldn't.   This condition is called by other names you may have heard before: Overactive Bladder, Bladder Spasms, Spasmodic bladder and Irritable bladder.  Sound familiar?

Here's the deal; you don't have to live with this.  A Geneveve treatment makes it so easy to bring comfort and confidence back into your life!  It takes just 30 minutes out of your life, requires no sedation, no cutting, no needles.  It's a simple non-surgical, radio-frequency technology that stimulates collagen growth in the vagina.  By promoting the collagen protein, the vaginal walls tighten which in turn, creates greater bladder control.

 Do you even remember what it felt like to not have a sudden urge to urinate at the most inopportune times?

Meet Geneveve!

We would like to introduce you to the newest member of Madison Women's Clinic- Geneveve!  We are so excited to have her on board.

Now, you might be wondering what her credentials are...Well, she specializes in Incontinence!  Those moments when you are afraid to laugh, cough, exercise and let's not forget the dreaded sneeze!! Ah, those uncomfortable moments can be something you look back at and nervously laugh about, now that Geneveve is here!

Geneveve is the latest in gynecological technology.  It is a non- surgical, rejuvenation treatment that uses radio frequency to help stimulate the production of collagen in the vagina.  Collagen is a powerhouse protein in our cells that give structure and elasticity to the tissues in the body and the skin.  By providing more collagen production directly to the vagina, the result is a tighter, vaginal wall that greatly reduces the symptoms urinary incontinence.

You'll appreciate Geneveve for most of the same reasons WE love Geneveve.

• It's a non surgical procedure which means it's comfortable
• No needles
• No cutting
• Typically completed in only 1 treatment
• The procedure takes about 30 min. so you get back to your life in no time. 
• Helps restore confidence

It's so easy to get started with your life changing Geneveve treatment!  Just give us a quick call and schedule an appointment in either our Rexburg, or Rigby Office.   Just because 68% of women between the ages of 42 and 64 live with incontinence, doesn't mean you have to as well!! Don't wonder what you're missing...

So you want to get married?

You've planned for this day for months...maybe even years if you count the time spent day dreaming about it.   It's important you spend a little time at your favorite gynecologists prior to the big day.

I know...not what you had in mind right?

Still, here's what you can expect at your first premarital exam. We promise it will be a good experience. 

1.  Meet with one of our providers.  We have a variety of providers with varying strengths and personality types, all who are great to listen and ease your anxiety.  They are willing to work with you, past health issues, current health concerns and how to prepare for the next phase of life.  You can choose to meet with one of our OB/GYN docs, or our Nurse Practitioner who is amazing and a wonderful choice for young women who have not been sexually active.

2.  The premarital exam.  The worst part of a premarital exam is the anxiety and worry leading up to it.  The internal exam is important in order to make sure you are in good physical health and identify any problems that could cause painful intercourse.  The premarital exam is also a good time to go over any other health concerns you may have regarding your general health or gynecological issues.  Your doctor will also make sure you are up to date on immunizations. 

3.  Birth control.  This is a good time to educate yourself on the options in birth control and discuss any worries or concerns you may have. 

4.  Pregnancy.  Not only can you discuss birth control but talk about how to prepare now, for the day when you want to conceive.  Your provider can give you great information on diet and nutrition, high risk issues and how to be your best healthy self,  prior to getting pregnant.

5.  Q and A.  The premarital exam is also the best time to confide and ask questions that may have been going unanswered because of the sensitivity of some topics.  This is a great time to establish a relationship with a provider and build trust with him or her. 

Preparing your body and mind for marriage is just as important as choosing the dress.  The wedding day lasts  for just hours but a marriage lasts a lifetime.  It's important you are prepared and ready to embark on an exciting and new life together.  Madison Women's Clinic is here for you every step of the way. 

The Baby Business

 

The business of having a baby is big! 

Most women conceive, incubate and deliver a healthy baby with few, if any, bumps in the road.  For less than 10% of pregnant women, it's not quite as routine.  For many reasons, they can be considered high risk.


What puts a woman in a high risk category for pregnancy?

• Age-  The younger or older you are, the greater your risk for complications such as early miscarriage or genetic defects, for women over 40.  Having good prenatal care can do a lot to keep the mother safe and often complications can be managed you are followed closely. 
• Pre- existing health conditions- Being pregnant puts a huge strain on your body.  If you already deal with health issues such as diabetes, autoimmune disease, depression, anxiety, kidney, heart or lung issues, you will want to involve your doctor long before you decide to get pregnant.  Any family history with miscarriage, early delivery or any other complications can put you at risk too. 
• Medical conditions brought on as a result of pregnancy-  You can be totally healthy and sometimes, it's still not enough.  Gestational diabetes, Pre-eclampsia are two conditions that can develop while you are pregnant.  Again, good prenatal care is vitally important so that if an issue were to arise, it could be managed sooner than later. 
• Multiple births- Of course, twins, triplets or more creates a special circumstance that requires more vigilance and care.  Today, most women are able to carry multiple babies with very good success but you still need to be educated and careful to ensure they aren't delivered too early. 
• Fetal problems- Sometimes, the health risk to mother may be affected by the health of the baby.  Through ultrasounds, fetal problems can be detected.  Again, early diagnosis and intervention are what is needed to keep mom and baby as healthy as possible.  
• Lifestyle-  It goes without saying that things like drinking, smoking, drug use; both recreational and prescription can also put you in a higher risk bracket for complications. 

It's important to remember that many women in high risk categories often go on to deliver happy, healthy babies.  Creating a trusting relationship with your doctor can make it easier to catch these problems earlier, should they crop up.  We live in a time when technology in medicine and especially obstetrics has advanced so far.  There are a series of informative tests and treatments that can be done to ensure the health of both mom and baby.  With all these safety precautions in place, you can allow yourself to relax and enjoy the business of bringing a baby into the world. 

Relationship Status

What is your relationship status...

With yourself?

Are you madly, deeply in love?
Are you breaking up?
Is it complicated?

Most of us have a complicated relationship with ourselves.  Odds are, we've fallen out of love.  Life is hard, kids are harder, Summer's here and so is the 20 lbs hiding our bikini body we promised to get 6 weeks ago.  Depends on the day but we can either be falling in love with our strong, confident self or breaking up with girl who keeps falling short.

Self love really is the new relationship goal in life.  All too often, we let ourselves fall short and come in last.  Self love helps us live a more confident, centered life of purpose. So, how can we turn this love train around and start finding a little self-love?

Bad days happen but that doesn't mean we have to set up camp and remain stuck there.  Maybe we visit for a few hours, maybe a day but then it's time to move on.  Part of the problem we face as women is remaining in the past, holding on to hurts like the string of a kite but that will never lift us to higher ground or move us along.  We just stay stuck and tethered to the past.  Let it go.  Letting go of the past that no longer serves us well, is one healthy step toward loving yourself.

Focus on what your basic needs are in life.  Stay mindful in this task and with each decision you make, be sure it is serving these long term needs and values, not wants that will quickly fade.  Oftentimes, we fill up on quick fixes and empty calorie choices that only weigh us down even more.  Overspending, prescription drug abuse, food...can all make us feel good in a moment but it's just a single moment.  There is no staying power in feeding our wants.  Focus on your needs.

Mend the fences along your boundaries.  All too many times, we forget that 'No' is actually a complete sentence.  You can maintain your boundaries without excuses, lies or being rude and ugly about it.  Simply say, "No."  If you are spread thin with one nerve left, allow yourself the opportunity to rest and refuel.  Taking on another project or commitment isn't going to serve you well, nor is it a loving thing to do.  Be gentle and kind, even with yourself.

Tidy up your friends.  Most people come and go in our lives naturally but others may need to be invited to leave.  Either your friends are for you...or they are against you.  Take a closer look at the people you surround yourself with.  Let go of the ones who make you feel 'less than' or 'other'.  Negativity and criticism are love killers, especially when it comes to loving ourselves.  Fill your life with those people who make you feel loved and valuable.

Finally, give yourself the same freedoms and concessions you allow for others.  We are often our worst critic.  We forgive others, compliment others, cheer others along.  When was the last time you did that for yourself?  Give yourself the time of day.  Do something you love to do.  Engage in a new hobby or an old one you shelved.  Even a few minutes a day goes a long ways.  It helps to unwind from the stresses of life.

When we are able to love ourselves more, we are better able to handle life and all the complexities that come with it.  Our relationships will be stronger and more meaningful.  We will be able to handle and recover from stress quicker.  Self love allows for more hope and less anxiety and depression.  Even just changing one negative behavior or habit for a more loving one will begin to make a difference.

It's time to change your relationship status!

Perfectly, perfect

Why be perfect, when you can be average?

Seriously.

Here's why average is way better than perfect.

Perfectionism according to some is a psychological disorder.  Those who suffer with perfectionism may disagree, because that would mean they are less than perfect, but according to research, it sets a person up for depression, anxiety, relationship problems, eating disorders, and in extreme cases, suicide. Any one of these results is a high price to pay just to appear perfect.  Perfect is actually unattainable, no matter who you are or who you think you are.  You are in fact human; flawed and oh so human.

We live in a day when perfectionism resides as close as your back pocket or purse.  Social media runs the average day, all amok with embellished images of blissful lives, immaculate homes, unblemished bodies, adept and accomplished children, impeccable partners and vacations and weekend getaways  beyond compare.  If you are suffering with perfectionism, these images wreak havoc on your mind and heart.  We compare our mediocre to something completely unreal and unattainable and then fill our head with self talk of shame, guilt, doubt and frustration. 

Being a perfectionist is hard work.  One never feels accomplished.  A perfectionist can never feel pride in a job well done because they never see the job they did, as done well enough.  Perfectionists never really take risks.  Anything that can not be done perfectly, won't even be attempted because failure is not an option or acceptable outcome. In fact, the focus for a perfectionist is never really on success, but rather, failure.  They work in extremes, with black and white kinds of thinking.  One may be successful today, but a failure at best, tomorrow.  Sadly, one who struggles with perfectionism never has a consistent source for self worth. 

When one is always consumed with thoughts of perfection, thinking becomes skewed.  They come to demand similar traits in others.  When others fall short, and they will, a perfectionist will often respond with high levels of criticism that can create barriers to good communication and meaningful relationships. 

So, what a person to do?

First, you must recognize in what ways perfectionism creates problems for you, because everyone is different. Perhaps only certain areas of your life are affected.  Pay attention to those areas of your life when you feel the most insecure and ashamed; those moments when you can see for yourself that even your own standards can feel impossible.

Begin setting realistic goals and understand that excellence is a great swap for perfectionism.   Excellence is achievable; it's doing our best time and again and even seeing an improvement in our efforts.  Consider that everything we do is an opportunity to learn and grow. Give those around you, a chance to make mistakes as well.  When we learn to let others fall and fail it becomes easier for us to allow the same from ourselves.

We all need to practice being more authentic and real.  Life is meant to be experienced; the good with the bad, the successes and the failures. When we can begin to put these little changes into practice, the cords of perfectionism that bind us will begin to loosen.  We will find that life can be less stressful and anxious and more pleasant and relaxing.  Try to look at each situation from a new perspective.  By doing this, we can change some of our rigid thinking. 

Average is healthy.  Average leaves room for excellence and growth.  Average is very exciting and creative.  Average isn't afraid to take risks because even failure is an amazing place to learn new things.  Average is patient, loving, kind and connected.  Even if at first, you can't quite let go of the entire lifestyle of perfection, try compromising for one day and let yourself be human.

Being a Patient

We sometimes have this unrealistic expectation of doctors and...they just don't measure up.

Sometimes, we have a realistic expectation of doctors and... they just don't measure up.

This may come as a surprise to some, but the truth is, Doctor's are human.  I know.  Too bad they  have to be human.  At one time or another, we just want them to pull a miracle out of their inside out scrubs pocket.  We want them to have mastered the art of healing. We expect their bedside manner to be all that...and then some.  We hate to doubt that their knowledge has limits. In all ways, we expect nothing less of perfection. 

But then, life happens.  It happens to us and it happens to them and in the messy parts of any given day, they stumble from the pedestal, on which we allow them to teeter.  You know what happens then...that's right we socialize about their fall from perfection and that's that. I've done it, you've done and they've probably done it to each other. Life is a journey of experiences, for good or for bad and it begs to be witnessed and validated.  Don't get me wrong, some doctors get what comes, but for the most part, they do the best they can, given the fact they are human and all.

The majority of complaints against doctors have nothing to do with their medical skills and everything to do with communication skills on both sides...the doctor and the patient.  Not only that, the majority of doctors didn't even realize there was a problem. 

It's hard to on the best of days to communicate with doctors, but when we are sick and scared and afraid that our health is unraveling, it's even harder to effectively balance this very important and personal relationship with the person we trust with our very life.

Here are some tips for making each appointment with your healthcare provider be the best it can be.

• When reporting your symptoms, be thorough, organized and concise.  When they ask what brings you in, give them a brief overview and even a list of concerns you would like to address during the visit.  Be conscientious and respectful of time, it may require a second visit to cover your concerns. 
• Bring a list of your medications, including supplements and over the counter meds.  
• Be honest with your doctor about your health history and present issues.
• Invest more trust in your doctor than in Google. 
• Speaking of Google, educate yourself of your condition, understand the basic terminology, so that you can ask the best questions, and be proactive in your own health.  This is different than using the internet to self diagnose. 
• Write down your questions and concerns
• Ask about the best method of communication, if some questions come up after you leave the appointment.
• Be assertive. If you don't understand any part of the visit, including diagnosis, treatment plans or medication, let them know where you are confused.  
• Bring one trusted friend or family member if you need support.  Do not bring your tribe along.  It slows down the process and creates too many distractions. 
• If you feel you are not being heard, respectfully tell them how you are feeling.  It's most likely they aren't making you feel this way intentionally.  If after attempts to communicate your difficulties and angst, the situation can't be resolved, then perhaps it isn't a good fit and time to move on.
• Be careful what you read on social media platforms.  We are quicker to complain about a poor experience than to report the awesome interactions we have with our doctors.  Take each complaint with a grain of salt.  If you do have complaints, try to resolve them with your provider before jumping to conclusions. 

Of course, this is just the short list for patients on how to improve a patient/ doctor relationship.  Healthcare providers of all varieties, have a responsibility to deliver, quality, compassionate care.  They are healers and they are held to higher standards because of the role they play in caring for human life.  It's okay to expect this but make sure you are doing your part as well.  The more we can address our health with a team approach, the better the overall experience will be. 

Caregiving

Being a caregiver isn't something we talk about much and more importantly, we may not even truly understand what the very words mean.  Typically, we think of caregivers as those who have loved ones with diseases such as, Parkinson's, Dementia, Cancer...the ailments we all dread with advanced age.

 You could be an aunt, a niece, a mother, a sister, a child, and care for an aunt, a niece, a mother, a sister, or a child. Care giving can be triggered by a major life event but it can also be so subtle we hardly recognize it.  We start by taking our mom to her doctor appointments, pick up medications for her...and while it doesn't consume our day, it takes an emotional toll we hardly recognize.  You could be caring for the elderly, the ill or even the daily tasks associated with motherhood.

Most tasks of a caregiver are thrust upon us and we are forced to feel our way along duties we have little experience in.  Some of the tasks may include...

• Grocery shopping
• House cleaning
• Laundry
• Transportation
• Assisting with hygiene
• Managing medications
• Communicating with health care providers
• Handling finances
• Handling crisis
• Taking care of healthcare treatments like giving injections, physical therapy, transferring from bed to chair, to shower etc.

Typically, you do it all, in addition to the other responsibilities you have, and you do it without compensation or experience.

If you find yourself in the caregiving role, here are some things to consider.  Often, a caregiver can let her own mental and physical health slide or strain. 

• Caregiving is emotional business.  Don't be afraid to have emotions that run the gamete from joy to depression.   Own your feelings without the addition of guilt or shame.
• Be realistic about what you can do for your loved one
• Don't be afraid to ask for help, before the point of overwhelm
• Don't be afraid to accept help...this makes you human, not weak. 
• Develop stronger coping skills- Eat, Exercise and Sleep. 
• Learn the necessary skills for caring and make sure you have the right equipment 
• Build a support system for yourself; friends you can count on to lean upon
• Don't worry about the haters.  There will always be someone who thinks they could do it better.  Unless they are willing to jump in and help, don't give their opinions much weight. 
• Come to know your limits and tap out before it's too much.  

There is so much more we could cover.  Caregiving is one of the hardest, most isolating jobs on the planet.  We sacrifice so much and few truly come to understand the emotional toll until you experience it yourself.  If you are a caregiver, kudos to you.  If you know someone, consider ways you could help lighten their load.  

The Image of Self

There's nothing quite like the security of a 5 year old.

 Remember your 5 year old self?

Yeah...

That girl who danced and didn't care who was watching?
The girl who sang at the top of her lungs with a crackling force and giggles tumbling out behind?
The girl who thought her mismatched outfit was 'on point'?

Do you remember that girl? Who lived without reserve or shame?

What happens between those early years to the tween years and beyond?  What happens to make us so awkward in our own skin at times?  So, anxious about the way we look?

There is no easy answer to these perplexing questions.  Some will argue that magazines and impossibly thin, airbrushed models are to blame.  Others may jump on the bandwagon of perfection.  Perhaps, it's just the need to fit in while trying desperately to stand out; the impossible standards we set for ourselves.  Often, we can have 10 people validating us, but we only hear the one critical voice, and count that as the most important and maybe, that one voice is our own.  Many more times, the critical voice is handed down through the generations and without even knowing, our own critic within, is all our daughters ever hear.

How can we foster a more positive image of our bodies?

1. Embrace all the variations of beauty.  There is no right definition of beauty.  As you look at others, withhold your judgement and see the beauty within them...now, do the same for yourself. 
2. Realize what an amazing machine your body is.  There is no technology on earth that can keep a human life running, quite the way God does.  We have within us a great power, the power of life.  You aren't a size or a number, you are a miracle. 
3. Focus on your strengths; those things that have nothing to do with physical beauty.  Keep a list of those close by, so you can refer to them when you get down on yourself. 
4. Get beyond yourself.  Focus on others.  Make a difference in someone else's life and live a life of purpose.  When we have purpose, we have a greater sense of belonging and self love. 
5. View social media with a critical eye.  There are very few things we can count on as truth when it comes to the internet and social media.  Remember, that nearly all images are retouched, airbrushed and changed dramatically.  Social Media should never be the yardstick we use to measure beauty- our own or someone else's. 
6. Strengthen your personal value system.  Personal worth comes from loyalty, wisdom, integrity, confidence, assertiveness, respect, good humor, patience...and so much more. 
7. Develop better communication skills.  When we become better at using our words to express what we are feeling, food becomes balanced and less emotional. 
8. Try to foster a life of balance and moderation. 
9. Learn to set healthy boundaries when it comes to your interactions with those around you.  Don't accept judgement from others that feeds shame or guilt.  
10. Pass on to those around you, a positive way to think about yourself.  When we are able to model a healthy self image, those we associate will rise to the same level.

All too often, we have come to believe that as women, a poor self image is just part of the role we play but it doesn't have to be that way.  It takes work to fight against the social culture of perfection we are continually presented with.  It takes courage to become that girl we once were...ya know, back when we were 5. 

Dem Bones...

These bones of ours take a beating over a lifetime...

Here are a few fun bone facts.

• There are about 206 bones in the human body
• The strongest and longest bone is the femur bone located in your thigh
• The smallest and lightest bone is the stapes, located in your middle ear. 
• Arms are the most commonly broken bone in adults
• Collar bones are the most commonly broken bone in children
• Bones are made of calcium, phosphorus, sodium, collagen, protein and other minerals
• Bones produce blood cells.
• The skeletal system accounts for 1/6 of your weight.  See...you aren't overweight, you just have big bones!  Ha ha...

So, you can replace bones, but they aren't as cool as the real deal so how can we take better care of our bones?  

If you are in the menopause years, pay attention.  

Our bones begin to lose density as we age, leading to a condition called Osteoporosis.  You've probably heard of it.  It can cause our bones to fracture, even under normal circumstances. 

Aging bones become brittle and bend and become misshapen. 

Muscle mass decreases that can leave our bones and joints unprotected.

 There's good news though!  Here are some things we can do to keep our bones strong...

• Eat a balanced diet, rich in calcium and minerals
• If you are low in calcium and vitamin D, talk to your doctor about getting on supplements
• Exercise regularly.  Focus on muscle building exercises.
• Eliminate tobacco and alcohol use.  They interfere with the absorption of calcium.
• Keep your hormone levels in balance.  Too much thyroid hormone or not enough estrogen can make your bones weak.
• Maintain a healthy weight.  Underweight people often have less bone mass.

Just because aging is one of the biggest factors to loss of bone, doesn't mean we have to sit idly by, watching our skeleton deteriorate.  Get up an move.  Exercise is by far one of the most important things we as women in menopause and advanced years can do for ourselves.  

Dem bones will thank you! 

A Pain in the Neck

 Is it just a pain in the neck...or it is more than that?

Did you know that women are more likely to deal with chronic pain 10% more often than men?  According to the Jacob's Institute of Women's Health, 34% of women report dealing with chronic pain and this number puts the issue on the radar as a public health issue.

So, where do you fall in these statistics?  Are you one who suffers quietly with chronic pain or do you spend hundreds on pharmaceuticals to get mediocre relief at best?  The landscape of pharmaceuticals and pain meds is changing rapidly.  Opioids that are often prescribed for chronic pain, are under fire for being addictive, expensive and less than effective.  Doctors are thinking twice before prescribing so it's important we find other ways to manage pain in addition to medications.

Why do women suffer more than men?  Women often have overlapping conditions that create a unique pain experience.  We deal with chronic migraines, pain associated with monthly cycles and hormone changes, irritable bowel syndrome, urinary tract infections, auto immune disorders and mental health issues that can contribute to pain levels and tolerance such as depression, anxiety and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Let's face it, women typically don't do a very good job of taking care of themselves, we are usually the first responders when care is needed in our families or in the community but put ourselves dead last in the area of self care.  At the end of the day, if there is time, energy and resources left, we may do something small for our own health and care.  We tend to have fewer support systems in place and keep our suffering to ourselves in lieu of preserving our perceived image to those around us.

Ladies, how can we manage this chronic pain better and increase the quality of life we currently experience?

1. Establish a support system.  It doesn't need to be elaborate and extensive.  A few solid people who have your back.  People you can trust to share your day with, the good and the bad and the frustrating.  Often, clearing out the worries that can take on a life of their own, if kept in your own head, will alleviate pain that can be exacerbated by exhaustion, both physical and mental fatigue.  It's often easier, we think, to isolate ourselves when it comes to the pain we experience or the struggles we face but that will only increase our problems.  Connection is the answer to so many social issues today and that includes how we manage our health. 
2. Get your heart pumping.  Cardiovascular activity may not be considered your first line of defense when you are in pain but there are many studies that have proven its effectiveness.  Low to moderate activity that raises your heart rate, minimizes pain, depression and disability.  The more vigorous you can work out, the greater the benefits. 
3. Mind-Body therapies like Yoga, Tai Chi or Qigong are also shown to reduce pain and increase mobility and strength.  When your joints ache, often, strengthening the muscles around the joint is the answer to decreased pain.  
4. Find the best provider for you.  Pain is a team sport!  You can't manage your pain alone.  You need to work with your healthcare provider and develop a multi modal plan for your care.  This means, you have to have a good working patient/provider relationship.  At Madison Women's Clinic, each of our providers offer a  unique approach to caring for their patients.  We have been selective and precise in the providers we have hired to represent our clinic, they are the best in their selected areas of expertise and we know you will find a good match here.  Let us be a part of your care plan.  
5. Be an educated patient.  Have a solid understanding of the health issues you face.  Study for yourself how nutrition, exercise and other methods of care can impact and lessen your pain.  Take the necessary steps through being proactive.  If possible, find other women who deal with similar issues and gather support through their experience.  We live in an age of technology when support groups are just a click away.  It's a powerful thing to know you aren't alone in your pain. 

Pain is part of life but you don't have to live with it in silence and you don't have feel alone.  These ideas may not manage your pain 100% but they will certainly be tools to support you as find medications that you can safely take to alleviate the suffering.  Let us know how we can help you!  We are just a phone call away and offer appointments in Rigby and Rexburg. 

Preconception Care

There use to be a time when women got pregnant and had a baby.  There was no thought of how they were going to have the baby.  They didn't create elaborate birth plans and pack up half the house to take to the hospital, they merely showed up when the contractions told them to.

Today, as women in the reproductive years, we spend a lot of time thinking about baby.  We research all the best products, will I need a baby wipe warmer or are monitors in the nursery more important? We try to follow a diet void of preservatives and ingredients that main stream media tells us could harm the little one we are creating within us.

What about the state of our bodies before we ever conceive?  How much thought do we give to that?

In our early teens, when menstruation begins, our body is already preparing for a potential pregnancy.  It just does it without much thought from us.  Our bodies begin to build body fat in all the right places , hips develop and the adolescent changes from childhood to womanhood begin.

Preconception care is all about preparing your body intentionally so that when the time comes to get pregnant, you are in the best health possible.  It's a time to work on those bad food habits, the daily consumption of excess saturated fats and sugars that put you at risk for insulin resistance or gestational diabetes.

Before you get pregnant is the perfect time to increase your stamina and strength through regular exercise.  Even low to moderate exercise will set you up for a healthier pregnancy.  Make sure you know your numbers for good health...such as blood pressure weight and cholesterol.  Going in to a pregnancy with high blood pressure just makes everything harder.

Preconception time is also a good time to meet with your provider and discuss any genetic issues you may have in yourself or your extended family, concerns you have about getting pregnant or carrying a child and even delivery.  Your doctor will make sure you are up to date on vaccinations and that your overall health is optimal.  You will also want to make sure that if you are dealing with any sexually transmitted diseases, those are cleared up before getting pregnant so that your unborn child will be protected.

It seems like a lot to consider but keeping yourself in good health makes sense no matter how soon you plan on getting pregnant.

Is it really possible to manage stress?

So, have you ever wondered if managing stress is a real thing or just something we say?

How many times have you heard the doctor urge you to 'decrease' your stress?  How many times do you roll your eyes behind his back as you leave and whisper under your breath, "Fat chance!" ?

 It's a good thought really.  Stress can definitely wreak havoc with a once healthy body.  It happens ever so slightly and before you even realize what is happening, until you are facing some major health issues.

Stress is really one of life's little mysteries.  What if handling stress wasn't so much about taking things off our plate as much as it is, managing what isn't leaving your plate, better?  Obviously, getting rid of things is ideal, and sometimes easy to do.  Most articles about handling stress start with adding good things to your life but a stressed person doesn't want to add one more thing!  So, let's not do that just yet...

If you are at your wit's end, before you say 'Yes' to the next thing that comes along, remember that 'No' can be a complete sentence. Just say 'No.'  The magical thing about the word 'no' is that you really don't need to supply an explanation or even a creative lie to justify the 'no'.  Many times, we don't have a good reason for saying No, other than we just don't want to or don't have time.  Whatever, it doesn't matter.  Now, let me warn you, the first time you try this, be prepared for some awkward silence.  The person who receives the No is going to expect you to elaborate but stay strong.  'No' has gotten a bad rap and we think it is something negative and mean.  It doesn't have to be mean and ugly, it can be the best form of self care.

  This is an important concept in managing stress because it begins setting boundaries for yourself and those around you.

Often, the stress we deal with came from just being a part of this thing we call life and we can't wish it away and all the worry in the world isn't going to change it.  There is the key right there; worry.  If you can't change something, then worrying and fretting is only hurting yourself.  Practice pausing for a minute to consider your perspective.  If, after some careful thought, you find there are things you can do to change a situation, then take the appropriate steps to do so, otherwise, take a deep breath and move on.

When you feel stressed and the stress is managing you, take a look at your routines.  Have you lost that feeling of rhythm and routine in your life?  It's the rhythms of life that keep us sane; like getting up and going to bed at the same time every day.  Patterns we establish, help us feel in control and they are very important in maintaining a stressful life.  If you find yourself craving routine, take a closer look at the patterns you keep for yourself and your family.

Breathing seems pointless when you are stressed and passive at that but there is great power in a deep, cleansing breath. Breathing is one of our natural body rhythms, keep it in check and breathe slow, deep and deliberate and close your eyes if you want.  Imagine the stress leaving your body, as your shoulders fall back into place, instead of tucked up around your ears.

Finally, keep your perspective and watch your language.  It's easy to refer to our stressors with negativity and judgement.  Saying things like, "This is a disaster" reiterates to our brain that something is big and bad...it's not a disaster, for sure a disappointment but not a disaster.  Be careful how you label things for good or for bad.  Sometimes, you just never know what will become of a bad situation and sometimes framing it differently makes all the difference in an outcome or even a day.

Eliminating stress is an impossible task for most people and some stress is actually healthy!  Though it may be hard, managing stress can be done and done well but it does require a little work on your part.  Maybe, with a little practice,  you can stop hearing your doctor go on and on about cutting back your stress!

How Influenza Will Make You More Popular

Do you want to stand out in the crowd?

Tired of being invisible?

Wanna be the center of attention with your friends and even strangers?

I have just the answer to gaining popularity!

Show up to work, send your kid to school or better yet, shop for groceries with a hacky, barky, snotty, feverish flushed cheeks, runny nose aura about you!  And for good measure, make sure to have a cough capable of heaving out a lung or two, because that will be sure to get EVERYONE'S attention. 

People!! We are in the throws of Influenza season and of course, as is always the case with media, it's the worst year ever for the flu!  It may or it may not be, who's to say, and how do we really know?  Every year we seem to get the same 'chicken little' rhetoric but seriously, if you or a loved one is sick, stay home.  It's the only sensible way to stop the spread of viruses including Influenza.  I promise you, there are better ways to gain popularity than spreading disease.

Let's discuss some influenza facts...because smart people are popular people!

• Influenza is not the pukes!  If you are puking don't tell people you have the Flu.  You have a stomach bug or people love to blame the last restaurant they ate at when they get the pukes but whatever, it's not Influenza.  A nuisance and uncomfortable and requires more buckets than you have laying around...at times, and increased fluids and many trips to the bathroom, but it's still not the flu. 
• Influenza is a respiratory virus that infects the nose, the throat and sometimes the lungs and can range from mild to severe.  It just depends on how good your luck is. The symptoms are cough, runny nose, sore throat, body aches, sore muscles, headaches, fatigue and you may or may not have a fever. 
• There is more than one strain of influenza.  The Center for Disease Control has creatively named each strain- A. B. C. and D.  Let me break it down for you.  Seasonal Influenza are basically strains A and B...the kind we are suffering from currently and the ones they focus the ever powerful Influenza vaccine that has about a 60% success rate give or take, depending on how smart the CDC was feeling that year.   Strains A and B can cause pandemics and we are experiencing that right now!  Strain C is a very mild form of the flu and doesn't typically spread as easily.  Finally, strain D basically just shows up in cows so if you are not a cow then you don't even need to worry about this.  If you have cattle tendencies, like having 9 stomachs or chew your cud, or have hoofed feet, you may want to consult your vet, doctor. 

           There are several sub-sets within each strain but for this article, we aren't going to go there.

• The flu spreads by the tiny droplets of viral matter that spews from your sneezes or when you talk or leave your tissue laying around your desk.   A person with the flu can infect someone else from day one to day 5 or even day 7 of symptoms.  (Incidentally, if this is how you want to be popular, this is for sure when you should wander around Walmart or your favorite grocery store, coughing and sneezing and sharing in your flu delight). This is just an estimate of how contagious the flu is. 
• The flu is not always going to stop at a little respiratory discomfort.  Some of the complications include...but are not limited to ear infections, sinus infections, pneumonia and can make chronic conditions such as congestive heart failure,  asthma or even diabetes worse!  This is when the flu gets scary and can escalate to a serious health crisis. If you have a poor immune system, if you are pregnant, are over age 65, have chronic health problems or are a young child, you need to get your doctor on board sooner than later.  You will want to be aggressive in treating these symptoms. 
• Diagnosing the flu is not any easier than actually having the flu.  There are bacterial respiratory infections that can appear to be the flu and the symptoms are similar.  Your best bet is to see your healthcare provider.  Do not leave this up to Google or WebMD though I sure they have snippets of truth to be found, you need a living breathing, medical degree to get you started on treatment. 
• Which brings me to my next point...there are medications available to treat influenza.  The anti virals out there are usually pretty effective and can shorten the duration of the flu significantly.  Here's a tip, when you go to the doctor's office, indulge in the masks, sanitizer and tissues that are available at no charge to you!  This goes back to the idea that there are easier ways to get attention than coughing your little feverish head off, in the waiting room. That mask is going to look darling on your face and much better than the cold, glaring eyes that will pierce your soul. 
• Finally, the time to start fighting the flu isn't when you get the flu.  You should be maintaining good strong, gut health long before flu season.  Did you know that your gut is one of the major components to your immune system?  If you don't believe me, Google it.  Also, practice good solid hand washing techniques.  Singing the ABC song isn't a bad idea while you wash your hands, you know like kindergarten teachers tell the Littles.  Sing loud, sing proud, sing away those germs.  Throw back some Vitamin C every day, and up your probiotics.  Don't feel like you have to hang around sick people because you don't have to.  Take advantage of a little alone time when your best friend or nearest stranger are sick.

One last thought!  If you are sick and at the first sign of being sick, call in sick.  Consider this your time to shine with a run of Netflix movies that would make any movie critic blush. How often do you get sent to your room?  Please, these are the goals of adulthood, indulge.  If you can't do it when you have the flu, when can you?