January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month!

 In general, great strides have been made in the prevention of cervical cancer. We more commonly vaccinate early against strains of HPV, which are the primary cause of cervical cancer. In addition, routine screening has become better at detecting abnormalities before they can develop into cancer. This makes it even more important for women to get routine exams, not just to prevent cervical cancer, but to make sure all of their gynecological systems are healthy.

According to the CDC, while HPV is the largest determinant, other factors such as smoking, having HIV, having multiple sexual partners and having taken birth control for 5 or more years can increase your risk of developing cervical cancer. You can lower this risk by getting the HPV vaccine, not smoking and practicing safe sex. Limiting your number of lifetime sexual partners also reduces the risk of acquiring HPV and HIV.

Starting the year off with cervical cancer awareness month is a great way to remind women make their gynecological appointments if they are due for one. Patients should write down any changes or concerns before visiting their doctor to make sure nothing is forgotten during the appointment.  In addition, doctors should encourage patients to voice possible issues, and give them time to think about any abnormalities they may have not mentioned initially. It is important to rule out cervical cancer if the symptoms are there, and make sure that patients is follow-up after testing. While it can be scary, early detection and dedicated follow up can mean the difference between life and death. We have already proven that cervical cancer can be beaten, and it is important to instill that mindset into every patient it effects. 

 More Information:

Introduction to Cervical Cancer

Basic Information (Signs, Symptoms, Screening and more) 

Cervical Cancer Information - American Cancer Society 

WHEP What's Happening!

Journal Club January:
Looking for an interesting read? This week's journal club brought us three articles from our fourth year pathway and elective students, along with great discussion. The following are the topics presented by our students. Enjoy, and tell us what you think!


Physical Domestic Violence and Subsequent Contraceptive Adoption Among Women in Rural India 
By: Rob Stephenson, MSc, PhD and colleagues

Efficacy and Safety of Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate in Pregnancy for the Prevention of Vertical Transmission of HBV Infection 
By: Mustafa Kemal Celen and colleagues

Implementation and Evaluation of a Training Program for the Management of Sexual Assault in the Emergency Department
By Steven A. McLaughlin, MD and colleagues

Abuse Waiting on the Internet For Women

A recent article "Why Women Aren't Welcome on the Internet" has been catching the attention of many since it was published a week ago. In the article, the author speaks openly about her personal experiences and those of other women who have a prominent voice on the internet. Far too often and at a much higher rate than men, women of all ages face abusive language via the internet. And while rude behavior and language on the internet is nothing new, there are many extreme cases of death, rape and injury threats coupled with cyber stalking behaviors that some women must face everyday. And as cyber crimes are still fairly new, it is not often that those who threaten face repercussions for their actions.

While these actions can effect anyone with an internet connection, the hatred is disproportionately aimed at women. Girls are more likely to be cyber bullied than boys, and the article points out the studies have found that female online identities are more likely to be the target of hateful language. While a large majority of the time threats are without real credibility and lack actual threat, the author explains that there are still negative repercussions for the victims. Being persistently attacked in both public (Facebook, twitter) and private (email) spheres, time lost from documenting extreme cases and general fear the messages bring can all lead to overwhelming stress, depression and development of unhealthy relationships with others. More and more it may be necessary to screen for abusive behaviors in all aspects of a persons life. 

If and until strict regulations are put in place for actions such as these, many more women will continue to face abuse via the internet. With law enforcement confused or looking the other way when it is reported, and anonymity keeping abusers empowered, the excuses are currently stacked against the girls and women who no longer feel safe or welcome on the internet.

Link to original Article:

http://www.psmag.com/navigation/health-and-behavior/women-arent-welcome-internet-72170/

Nuevo! - Blogs Para Tu Salud!!

Our Women's Health blog will soon be featuring an ongoing blog series in Spanish! You will be able to access our current and previous Spanish blogs via the "Blogs Españoles" tab at the top of the page (to see Spanish blogs only), as well as on the main blog feed. Look out for this newly updated section, coming soon! 

New Book Released by Kimberly J. Templeton, MD

Dr. Kimberly J. Templeton recently released her new book, Women's Sports Injuries. This book focuses on areas of continued investigation for which there is evidence of sex-based differences. Check it out! 

For more information please click here to visit the book's official page.

Start Your New Years Resolution Now!

Many people see each passing new year as a new start to accomplish important goals. However, new years resolutions often come and go as quickly as they began. Many people focus on resolutions to improve their health. Some of the most popular resolutions in the US are:

• Lose Weight
• Quit Smoking 
• Eat Healthier Foods

These along with many others are great goals...but how can you keep your resolution lasting into the new year and beyond. Here are some tips:

1. Start small - New years resolutions are often in the form of drastic changes, which makes them more difficult to adhere to. For example instead of changing your diet 100% when the new year rolls around, gradually change small things throughout the year. Example: If eating healthier is the goal, maybe cut sodas and drink more water in January. Eat one extra serving of fruits and vegetables a day starting in February and so on... You may find that a little at a time goes a long way at the end of the year.

2. Make a reasonable plan to act - Don't make a completely new schedule based on your resolution. This can throw you off balance and cut your resolution short. Instead, fit your resolution within your current schedule. Example: Instead of planning to go to the gym for 3 hours, 4 days a a week, plan a short 30 minute workout everyday at home until you are ready to commit more time to exercise. 

3. Pick based on what is most important to you - Everyone you know working on the same resolution? Don't feel pressure to choose the same thing. Simply working on what is most important to you will give you the greatest results in the end. 

Want Some Help with your Resolution?

USA.gov has complied a list of the top resolutions in the U.S. with links to different resources to help meet your goals. Click on the link above to see if your resolution is there. If not, you may need to do some exploring of your own! Remember, life changes can happen any day of the year. not just on January 1. Cheers!

Also check out this interesting blog post about  resolutions and social media:  http://www.adorecolour.com/why-you-should-think-twice-before-posting-your-new-years-resolution-online/

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year 2014!

2013, like all years was a year of many triumphs and challenges alike. As you take the time to reflect on what 2013 meant to you and to the world, look forward positively towards 2014. A new year always brings new and exciting adventures...make your 2014 the greatest year yet!

Look back links: 

CDC Top Ten: 5 Health Achievements in  2013 Achievements and 5 Health threats in 2014

Moments of 2013 By Google

YouTube Rewind: What does 2013 Say?