Top tips for teens (and the parents who raise them)
“Start with one small change...something you know you can achieve...and focus on it. Keep building on that success and the benefits will be noticeable over a lifetime.”
A Girl's Guide to Body Changes
Your body is going to change a lot, especially during puberty. The more you understand your body, the changes it’s going through, and how it’s impacting you physically and mentally, the better prepared you’ll be to manage these changes:
Menstruation: Not all periods are alike, so it’s best to focus on yours only. Understanding menstrual cycles and the hormonal changes that occur during menstruation is important for overall reproductive health. Knowledge about proper menstrual hygiene, including using appropriate menstrual products and changing them regularly, can prevent infections and discomfort. Recognizing signs of irregular or abnormal menstrual cycles and seeking medical advice can help prevent and manage conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis.
Contraception: It’s a fact—once you begin menstruating, you can get pregnant. Teens are not emotionally prepared for childbirth, so practice safe sex if you choose to engage. Talk with your parents, older sibling or someone you trust about protecting your body from unwanted pregnancy. And wait if you want to. It’s your body, so you are in charge.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): As your hormones change, so will your feelings about engaging in sexual activities. And if you choose to participate, you need to understand STIs are an associated risk. Many STIs are low key and don’t have noticeable signs, so you can’t tell by looking if you or a partner has one. Get tested together with your partner before having sex. And if you can’t wait, use a barrier method such as a condom and/or sex dam.
Mental Health: How we mentally process the world around us changes as our bodies change. Like any other body part, our brains have health issues, too, such as anxiety, depression and eating disorders. Biological factors or chemical imbalances in the brain can significantly impact mental health. Additionally, certain physical illnesses or genetic predispositions can influence brain function and increase the risk of developing mental health disorders. Ask for the help you need and deserve from a parent, your doctor or someone you trust who can help guide you to the right resources.
Adulting 101: Team Support Makes It Easier
Thrive and be fabulous: Your 30s, 40s and 50s
“Self-care is so important. Women deserve it! We work so hard and keeping ourselves healthy is the foundation upon which we are able to persevere.”
Vitality for the Ages: 60s, 70s and beyond
We’ve Got This!
By prioritizing sleep, exercise, nutrition, hydration, stress management and mental health—as well as establishing a lifelong relationship with healthcare providers—you can take control of your health and feel your best at every age. And remember, you’re not alone on this journey. You have a team of experts at Aspen Valley Primary Care to guide you. And as women, it’s essential to support each other.
“We are so lucky to have a great community here,” Dr. Chamberlin says. “Encourage each other to prioritize wellness, selfcare, screenings and preventive care. Keep each other healthy and well so we have friends to share these grand adventures of life.”