Back to School Isn’t Just for Kids🎒

We know—this time of year is often a whirlwind of permission slips, school pickups, and wondering how your child’s backpack is already falling apart by week two. But while you’re busy getting everyone else back on a schedule, consider this your gentle nudge to put your name on the checklist too.

Back-to-school season is more than just a fresh start for kids—it can be a surprisingly perfect time for grown-up resets. And yes, that includes your reproductive health.

New Routines = New Opportunities

Let’s be honest: between summer vacations, late bedtimes, and popsicles-for-breakfast levels of flexibility, things tend to get a little... loose over the summer. But as the alarm clocks start ringing again, there’s something magical about returning to structure. And that structure can help make room for the things we know we should be doing—like taking care of our own health.

So, Ask Yourself:

• When was my last well-woman exam?If your answer is “pre-pandemic” or “I’m not sure,” that’s your cue. These visits aren't just about Pap smears—they're a chance to check in on your overall reproductive and hormonal health, ask questions, and catch any concerns early.

• Am I up to date on my HPV vaccine or birth control management? Whether you’re navigating contraception in your 20s or managing perimenopause in your 40s, there are more options than ever—and they’re worth reviewing from time to time. Your birth control should still be working for you, not against you.

• Do I know my menstrual cycle well—or am I just white-knuckling it every month? If your cycle is a total mystery or has changed significantly, don’t just chalk it up to stress or age. Hormonal shifts, fibroids, thyroid changes, or even diet can play a role. And pain, irregularity, or heavy bleeding aren’t things you have to live with.

• Are those pelvic twinges something I should actually talk to someone about? Let’s normalize talking about this. Pelvic pain, pressure, bloating, or changes in bladder/bowel function can be clues—sometimes minor, sometimes important. Either way, they deserve your attention.

📝 No Permission Slip Required

Moms, teachers, caregivers, college students—whatever your back-to-school season looks like, we’re here for you. And no, you don’t need to justify why you're making an appointment (“I just turned 40,” or “My IUD feels off,” or “I’m tired of Googling my symptoms at midnight” are all valid reasons).

Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish. It’s smart. So take 15 minutes. Call us, Dr. Laura or Dr. Blase at West County OB/GYN Specialists located at St. Louis Mercy Hospital. Schedule that exam. Ask the question you've been putting off. Because while your kid is learning algebra, you can be learning more about your body—and how to keep it feeling its best.