October brings a sea of pink, and a timely reminder of the importance of breast health. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is not just about honoring survivors and advancing research; it’s also about taking action for your own health. Whether you’re due for your first mammogram, have questions about changes in your cycle, or want guidance through menopause, your provider is here to help. Breast health is lifelong health, start the conversation today.
Martha Moe, MD, medical director of the Center for Women’s Health at South County Health, has spent her career guiding women through all stages of life, from early adulthood to post-menopausal. She emphasizes that breast health is just one part of the larger picture of caring for yourself, and that open conversations with a trusted health provider can lead to healthier, longer, and fuller lives. We sat down with Dr. Moe to talk about the importance of mammograms, the value of proactive care, and how women can seek the support they need through every season of life.
Dr. Moe: Mammograms are still the single best screening tool we have for early detection of breast cancer. When caught early, treatment options are more effective, less invasive, and survival rates are significantly higher. It is important for patients to understand that getting a mammogram is like setting a safety net in place for your health; you hope you never need it, but it’s there to protect you. For most women, screening begins at age 40, but personal risk factors – such as family history or dense breast tissue – may mean you should start sooner. The key is having the conversation with your provider so your screening plan is tailored to you.
Dr. Moe: We understand that mammograms can spark fear in some patients, which is normal. Yet it shouldn’t create a barrier between you and your health. Mammograms are quick, usually under 20 minutes, and the peace of mind they bring can far outweigh the temporary discomfort during the exam. At South County Health, we strive to create a calm, respectful environment where patients feel heard, cared for, and not rushed.
Dr. Moe: Breast health is one piece of a much larger journey, because each stage of life comes with unique needs. Some patients at one point in life might be dealing with heavy or painful periods or other symptoms from fibroids or endometriosis, which can be life-altering conditions. Other patients are navigating reproductive health choices and pregnancy, or dealing with pelvic floor changes or even perimenopause or menopause. Health care is not one-size-fits-all, and it is constantly evolving over the course of a woman’s life. By maintaining a relationship with your provider, we can navigate changes early and support you in ways that are right for your life stage.
Dr. Moe: Support is everything in women’s health. That might be your partner, family, friends, or even a care team that listens without judgment. When women have a safe space to voice concerns – whether about breast lumps, irregular cycles, or symptoms of menopause – they’re far more likely to seek care early and follow through with treatment. We encourage women to build that support network and to use us as a trusted resource. You never need to face these decisions alone.
Dr. Moe: Your health is worth prioritizing, always. You don’t need to wait until something feels wrong to make an appointment. Preventive care is a gift you give to yourself and your loved ones, and scheduling an annual mammogram is easy. Walk-In appointments are available at our East Greenwich, Wakefield, and Westerly locations, and no provider order is necessary for an annual mammogram.
100 Kenyon Avenue, Wakefield
401-782-8000
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