As a mom, you’re dedicated to knowing your child’s medical history to ensure they stay as healthy as possible. You probably even track what they eat, drink, and breathe, just to make sure you’re preventing every ailment you can. But, do you ever think about your own mother’s medical history and how it may affect both you and your children?
This Mother’s Day, take a step back and ask a few questions that can help gain valuable insight into your family’s health patterns for generations to come.
Are You Listening to Your Heart?
As the number one killer of women, heart disease is something that everyone should be aware of at all times. But asking your mom about the current state of her heart health can give you a quick glance into your future. If anyone in your immediate family experienced heart related issues prior to the age of 65, blood pressure and cholesterol may be a concern for you and your children. The more information you learn from mom about her heart health can make your brunch plans just a little bit easier, too!
Did I Take Up All of Your “Womb”?
Excuse the pun, but learning about how your mom was during her pregnancy can tell you a lot about your own pregnancy, or even your daughter’s in the future. If your mom experienced fertility issues prior to becoming pregnant with you, it may be something that you will experience in your lifetime. You may also be at risk for conditions like gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia if your mother states that these were problems for her. Asking your mom questions can help you ask the right questions to your OBGYN.
Are You Getting Shorter?
Most of us pick on our moms because she shows sign of aging in her height-or lack thereof. But did you know that this could be a sign of poor bone health, or potentially even osteoporosis? While a lot of bone health correlates with diet and age, there are certain aspects that can be hereditary. The next time you harmlessly pick on mom for not being able to reach the top shelf, make sure to ask about her bone health, as you may need to make preventative changes in your diet, too.
Are You Sure It’s “Just a Hot Flash?”
Menopause certainly isn’t something that moms want to talk about all the time. In fact, most women will try to hide that it’s even happening. However, your mother’s symptoms may just be a peek into what’s to come for you later in life. If your mom is experiencing trouble sleeping, night sweats, and the dreaded hot flashes, you can adjust a few things in your diet and daily regimen to prevent that for yourself.
Why Are You Always So Grumpy?
We all know moms are going to be a little grumpy. After all, they did have to raise us, right? But, if your mom constantly has a frown on her face, or see’s the world in a glass half-empty sort of light, that may be a sign that more emotional issues are running deep. However, although depression issues such as bipolar disorder can be hereditary, it doesn’t always mean that you will pick up on the traits. Sometimes these are just responses to behaviors–or those pesky grandkids. But it can’t help to ask, and seek a doctor if you feel it could be a familial issue.
Just as you should at every other stage in life, your mom should be receiving regular annual or bi-annual checkups with her OBGYN and primary physician. Use these questions as you’re cleaning up Mother’s Day dinner, but make sure to contact Birmingham Obstetrics and Gynecology today to schedule your appointment.