Something for the Ladies

September is time for new routines
September 4, 1:09 PMCleveland Women's Health Examiner.


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Establish a new exercise routine for the FALL season!September means back-to-school, fall colors, sweatshirts, fading tans and new routines.


While women establish their new fall routines, there is one common denominator that unifies us all. September is Gynecologist Cancer Awareness month. This is a good time with the whirlwind of summer drawing to a close, that women now take a time out for themselves and take away the “I-don’t-have-time for this now" attitude. Fortunately, much research has helped women who note early symptoms and can beat this deadly disease.


Gynecologic cancer is a group of cancers that affect tissues and organs of the female reproductive system. Each type of cancer is named after the organ it originates.
These types of Gynecological Cancer are:
Cervical Cancer affects the cervix, which is the opening into the uterus. It used to be one of the most deadly cancers, however now that more women are getting Pap smears on a regular basis, the prognosis is much better.
Vulva Cancer is a rare kind of cancer in women, is a disease in which cancer (malignant) cells are found in the vulva. The vulva is the outer part of a woman’s vagina. The vagina is the passage between the uterus (the hollow, pear-shaped organ where a baby grows) and the outside of the body. It is also called the birth canal. It accounts for only 4% of cancers in the female reproductive organs.
Vaginal Cancer is a rare kind of cancer in women. It is a disease in which cancer (malignant) cells are found in the tissues of the vagina. The vagina is the passageway through which fluid passes out of the body during menstrual periods and through which a woman has babies. It is also called the "birth canal." The vagina connects the cervix (the opening of the womb or uterus) and the vulva (the folds of skin around the opening to the vagina).
Uterine Cancer is a disease of the uterus, or womb. There are two types of uterine cancer, the most common being endometrial cancer. Uterine cancer is the most common type of gynecologic cancer.
Ovarian Cancer affects the ovaries in the female reproductive system. It is often difficult to diagnose in the early stages and is considered the deadliest gynecologic cancer.

Women especially need to be aware of any signs and symptoms their bodies may be exhibiting. If symptoms are caught early enough – most cancers can be successfully treated. When the symptoms are ignored, the delay in treatment can prove to be fatal. Ladies, listen to your bodies! If you are experiencing something abnormal for you, see your doctor. Chances are the symptoms aren't cancer related, but it's better to have peace of mind.
What are notable symptoms?
1. Pelvic Pain – pressure below the navel. Is it persistent and not related to premenstrual cramps?

2. Abdominal Swelling and Bloating - Abdominal swelling and bloating is one of the more common symptoms of ovarian cancer. It is also a symptom that is most ignored. The bloating may be so bad that one can't button their pants or even have to go up a size.
3. Persistent Lower Back Pain – lower back pain occurs in the lower back and often feels like a dull ache. Some women describe it as feeling like labor pains. Lower back pain is a symptom of ovarian cancer.
4. Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding – abnormal vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom experienced by women when they have a gynecologic cancer. Heavy periods, bleeding between periods, and bleeding during and after sex are all considered abnormal vaginal bleeding and are symptoms of gynecologic cancer.
5. Persistent Fever- a fever that does not go away or lasts for more than 7 days on and off should be reported to your doctor. A stubborn fever is often a symptom of cancer. Keep in mind that a fever is also a symptom of many other benign conditions.
6. Persistent Stomach Upset or Bowel Changes – if you experience constipation, diarrhea, blood in the stools, gas, thinner stools, or just a general overall change in bowel habits, see your doctor.
7. Unintentional Weight Loss - losing 10 or more pounds without trying may be a nice surprise, but isn't quite normal. Although a woman's weight may fluctuate throughout the month, anything 10 pounds or more should be reported to your doctor.
8. Vulva or Vaginal Abnormalities - with vulvar or vaginal abnormalities, you should be aware of any sores, blister changes in skin color, and discharge. Women should exam their vulva and vagina regularly to look for these abnormalities.
9. Changes in the Breast – during monthly breast exams, women should look for lumps, note soreness, nipple discharge, dimpling, redness, or swelling. Report any changes to your doctor as soon as possible.
10. Fatigue is one of the most commonly experienced cancer symptoms. It is usually more common when the cancer has advanced, but still occurs in the early stages. Any type of fatigue that prevents you from doing normal daily activities is a sign that needs to be evaluated by a doctor.

Another common denominator that we can all share is understanding the need to exercise and eat right. If you are overweight, your risk of cancer cells continue to multiply, thus, increasing your chances for all kinds of health problems. You think you may be okay today - but it should be the 'tomorrows' that you are concerned with. There are more studies even in the last 3 years that support how exercise can be a part of preventive medicine. Eating right gives the body good fuel to burn.

With the cool crisp nights and pleasant sunny tolerable fall days, establish a new routine with your exercise program. If you aren't on a consistent program, this is a great time to start! Use September's monthly Gynecologist awareness to bring you to a new awareness!

I hope you enjoyed this, more info at www.backpainloss.com

Paul