May is Women’s Health Month. Here are some ways to take care of yourself.
The health of women is important to Columbia Pacific CCO every day, all year long. But May is Women’s Health Month, so we go further to remind women and girls to make their health a priority and take care of themselves – especially during COVID-19.
Remember, your benefits as a Columbia Pacific CCO member include:
- Physical care (including pregnancy care)
- Dental care
- Mental health care and substance use treatment
There are many different health issues that are important to women. But here are just a few we’d like to highlight this month:
Make an appointment for a mammogram
A mammogram is a breast exam that can help detect cancer. Here is more information about what it is and how it works. If breast cancer is found early with an exam like a mammogram, it can be much easier to treat. Mammograms are a covered benefit for Columbia Pacific CCO members. Talk to your primary care provider (PCP) about when you should get one.
Get checked for cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is a kind of cancer that can affect women. Most cases of this kind of cancer are caused by a common virus called the HPV virus. The good news is that cervical cancer is very treatable if it is found early. What can you do to help protect yourself? Talk to your PCP about:
- Getting regular cervical cancer screenings.
- Getting an HPV vaccination.
Studies have shown that the HPV vaccination can help prevent cervical cancer. Who should get the HPV vaccination? The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) makes these recommendations:
- All children ages 11 and 12 (girls and boys)
- Teens (girls and boys) and young adults up to age 26 (women and men)
Some adults age 27 through 45 (women and men) who were not already vaccinated may decide to get the HPV vaccination. If you are in this age group, ask your PCP if the HPV vaccination is right for you.
Take care of yourself if you’re expecting a baby
The Oregon Health Plan (OHP) offers extra, free benefits to all pregnant members. We hope you’ll use these! They support a healthy pregnancy. Your medical care is paid for:
- During pregnancy (pre-natal)
- While the baby is being born (delivery)
- For at least 60 days after delivery (post-partum)
So be sure to take advantage of those benefits. Here are just a few of the things you can do to help keep you and your baby healthy:
- Get your COVID-19 vaccination
People who are pregnant can have a greater risk for getting really sick if they get COVID-19. That means it’s important that you take steps to protect yourself. One way you can do that is by getting a COVID-19 vaccination. Here’s a story from one of our employees about her experience getting vaccinated while she was pregnant.
- Take care of your teeth
Taking good care of your teeth during pregnancy means a better chance of your baby being healthy. In pregnancy, your healthy teeth and gums are connected to your baby’s health. The OHP offers extra dental coverage, including more cleanings, during your pregnancy. Ask your dental plan about the benefits available during pregnancy. Your dental plan’s phone number is on your Columbia Pacific CCO Member ID card.
- See your PCP during your first six weeks…
It’s very important to make an appointment with your PCP. Getting care early in your pregnancy can mean a healthier pregnancy for you, and a strong start for your baby.
- …and again after your baby is born
It’s also important to see your provider two to twelve weeks after your baby is born. This helps your provider know if your body is healing well. And they can make sure you have the support you need to keep taking care of yourself and your baby.
We’re here for you!
If you have any questions about any of this information or your Columbia Pacific CCO benefits, please get in touch with us. We want to help!
Phone: 503-488-2822
Toll-free: 855-722-8206
TTY 711
Secure message: colpachealth.org/portal
More helpful resources
Tips for health living at any age
COVID-19 vaccine and pregnancy: what you need to know
