St. Vincent’s One Nineteen encourages women to take to for themselves

By Dr. Rupa Goolsby

Photograph Contributed

As a physician caring for women in all stages of life, I try to tell my patients what I’ve learned so far.

Ladies, one of the most important things I’ve learned is to take time for yourself. You have to take that initiative. You need to say, “I need to get my annual checkup,” or “I need to exercise and learn to eat healthy,” or “I just need a spa treatment.”

It seems to me that, as October presents our very-valuable pink ribbon breast health reminders, that even women who do not yet need mammograms could use those ribbons as self-care reminders. After all, when you care for yourself, you can better care for others.

I know it’s a struggle, especially for my patients who are working moms or those caring for elderly family members. However, women who care for their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health are better equipped to fulfill their many public-private roles.

I think self-care is especially easy at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen. Some of the patients I see at OB/GYN Associates of Alabama’s office at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen pay the nominal fee to drop their children off at the childcare center before they see us. Others are fitness members, and receive free childcare. Some patients choose to get their mammograms or other diagnostic services at One Nineteen, and they always say it’s because of its easy accessibility and tranquil atmosphere.

Some patients follow my suggestion to work with a personal trainer in One Nineteen’s fitness area. Others participate in the fitness classes, or maybe take a daily swim. Some women receive nutrition consults or attend a healthy cooking class. When I walk through the building, I’m so happy to see women treating themselves at the spa, attending one of the medical seminars or even dropping off a prayer request in the lobby.

So, I have a message for women waiting for someone to tell them to care for themselves. Ladies, consider this your self-care prescription. First, get your annual check-up and follow your physician’s advice. Then, every time you see a pink ribbon, consider that symbol your medical reminder to care for yourself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, so you can continue to care for all those who depend on you.

To learn more about our full-range of “healthcare like no other” services, visit onenineteen.com.

Rupa Goolsby, MD, is an OB/GYN at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen and Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce’s Obstetrics Healthcare Professional of the Year.