When “Me Time” Cannot Be Put Off
“Me time.”
It’s a catch phrase a certain kind of American politician likes to use to criticize women for leaving their children in day care or with babysitters.
Except, so many women put off “me time” that they endanger their own health.
Ever heard the expression “mothers lose a tooth for each child”?
Have you made a dentist appointment in the past 9 months, or, since your last child was born?
When was the last time you saw your gynecologist?
If it was during your six week postpartum check up, did you make an appointment for your annual PAP smear?
When confronted with feelings of sluggishness, nerves or unexplained exhaustion, have you seen a doctor to have your thyroid levels checked?
In fact, do you remember when your last physical examination was?
These are all details mothers tend to put off due to lack of time, but all of them are so important to protecting your health.
Tags: Me-time, mothers-and-health-care, women-and-healthRelated Stories
POSTED IN: Health
7 opinions for When “Me Time” Cannot Be Put Off
ratphooey
Jan 16, 2007 at 5:27 am
Again, that’s a great post.
I paid wonderful attention to my health while pregnant, but afterwards it’s more of a challenge.
The first time, I was lucky, because both my son and I were treated by the same family doctor.
This time? I’ll have to make a real effort to see that I look after myself, including making and keeping appointments. Fortunately I’ve already got a dental checkup scheduled, and when I made it a few months ago, I warned them I’d probably be bringing a newborn along with me. They are looking forward to meeting him!
kbaggott
Jan 16, 2007 at 5:40 am
You raise a very interesting point: newborns are charming and welcome to most places.
They are the highlight of any office-worker’s day. As my doctor’s receptionist put it; “They bring a little life to the place.”
So, what I take from your comment is this: never be put off from making an appointment because you don’t have anyone to leave the baby with. Take them with you.
ratphooey
Jan 16, 2007 at 5:46 am
Exactly.
Christina
Jan 16, 2007 at 10:02 am
OOK. Thanks for the reminder. I need health insurance. I haven’t had an exam since the post partum exams. Thanks, husband, for no health insurance!! GRRR. There’s a clinic in my neighborhood that gives free mammograms, I’ll have to give them a call too. Thanks for the reminder, lady. I guess long soaks in the tub just aren’t the same quality me time, are they?
Kate
Jan 16, 2007 at 5:17 pm
Get your free mammogram and get a geared-to-income (can be almost free) well woman check up from planned parenthood! the tub, while nice, is not protective of your reproductive and sexual health.
sarah
Jan 16, 2007 at 6:56 pm
Oh but the tub is SOOOOO relaxing! Seriously you raise some very good points. Thanks-
kbaggott
Jan 17, 2007 at 2:35 am
Yes, Sarah. True love need not run so deep as much as it needs bubbles.
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