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As July marks Self-Care Month, we turn our focus to the vital subject of women’s wellness with Dr. Donna Adams-Pickett, a renowned OB/GYN whose compassionate approach is reshaping the landscape of reproductive health. With decades of experience and a commitment to empowering women through education, Dr. Adams-Pickett has become a trusted advocate for holistic, patient-centered care. Join us as Dr. Adams-Pickett discusses the importance of prioritizing self-care and how informed choices can lead to lasting confidence and well-being.

What are the biggest challenges facing women’s health today?  

Dr. Adams-Pickett: The biggest challenge facing women’s health is the lack of validation that our health is important.  Too often, our symptoms and concerns are minimized and devalued. There continues to be a dearth of research on a number of disease processes that manifest differently in women. We have decreased coverage of medications and treatment schedules for us. There are very few educational platforms and resources for health matters for women of all ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic levels.

What do you enjoy most about working with patients?

Dr. Adams-Pickett: What I enjoy most about working with patients is educating and empowering them. I am thrilled by the moment when I can see the light bulb of understanding light up because I have just successfully taught them something about how their body works. I feel like I have given them a superpower at that moment.

Why is self-care important for women’s health?  

Dr. Adams-Pickett: Self-care is important because the mind-body connection is a real and valid phenomenon. When the brain is overwhelmed or when emotional stress is persistent, the cortisol and adrenaline surges that occur as a result can cause significant organ damage and organ dysfunction.  However, the release of endorphins and serotonin that occur during periods of relaxation is helpful to how the heart, brain, and other organs function. Self-care decreases cortisol and increases the endorphins for overall well-being.

What are some easy self-care tips you recommend?

Dr. Adams-Pickett: Some self-care tips that I recommend include: -prioritizing a MINIMUM of one day a month that is devoted solely to you. Usually, the day that corresponds to your birthday. On that day, take an inventory of your body and its function, as well as an emotional and spiritual inventory.

-learn how to embrace radical selfishness.  When something is asked of you, ask yourself first, “What could be the negative impact on me and my well-being?”  If it is significant, gain comfort by saying “no”.

How can busy women make time for self-care?  

 Dr. Adams-Pickett: Very few busy women make time for self-care.  Most busy women don’t see it as a necessary component of existence. Self-care becomes the negotiable item on their to-do list.  It is critical that self-care becomes as intentional and non-negotiable as any other appointment or commitment that is made for work, school, or others.

How can readers connect online? 

 

Dr. Adams-Pickett:  https://www.instagram.com/drdonna_thegirlfriendsgyn?igsh=MTllajk5MG1xMWNrMg==