In recognition of Women’s Health Month this May, Women’s Health Connecticut (WHC), the state’s premier women’s health specialty group, is teaming up with Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz to encourage women across the state to take a time out for themselves and prioritize their health and well-being through regular checkups, preventive screenings, and open conversations with their OBGYN.
The national month of recognition serves as an important reminder for women of all ages to take a proactive approach to their health—from adolescence through menopause and beyond. WHC is dedicated to supporting and partnering with patients through every stage of life, delivering compassionate, high-quality care.
“Women’s Health Month is an opportunity to remind women to book the appointment they have been putting off, and make informed decisions about their gynecological care,” said Paula Greenberg, president and CEO of Women’s Health Connecticut. “We are thrilled to partner with the Lieutenant Governor to remind women that preventive care and early detection are critical, and we are here to support our patients with personalized care every step of the way.”
The Women’s Health Connecticut network includes more than 200 physicians, along with over 100 additional providers and clinicians, including certified nurse midwives. With 90 statewide locations, the organization serves more than 300,000 patients each year.
Upon taking office in January 2019, one of Governor Lamont’s first actions was to form the Governor’s Council on Women and Girls – a group tasked with providing a coordinated state response to issues that impact the lives of women, girls, their families, and the State of Connecticut. As chair of the council, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz has prioritized improving the physical health and mental well-being of women and girls by increasing access to and awareness of essential, preventative screenings.
“Women are often so busy taking care of others that they forget to prioritize taking care of themselves. As we welcome Women’s Health Month, let us remember that preventive screenings, regular check-ups, and early detection save lives,” said Lt. Governor Bysiewicz. “Connecticut has been proud to lead on a number of initiatives to ensure access to affordable preventative screenings. No matter your age, these appointments are too important to skip. Women’s Health Connecticut has been a fantastic partner in our efforts to ensure that women not only have access to these appointments but feel safe and comfortable in their care.”
Spotlight on Gen Z
The Gen Z generation makes up a quarter of our population (ages 13-28) with approximately 200,000 of those young women in their 20s here in Connecticut. Many in this age group are turning to other sources first when they have questions about their health, and nearly a quarter have never seen an OBGYN for their care. As a result, many are missing routine screenings and essential preventive care as young adults. There is a critical need to connect young women to trusted, clinical sources of gynecologic care.
“We’re seeing an education gap among the Gen Z populations when it comes to understanding where to turn for reliable, trusted gynecologic care,” added Greenberg. “When young women rely on informal sources instead of medical professionals, they risk missing critical screenings and early interventions. Bridging this gap is essential to establish lifelong habits around preventive care and informed decision-making.”
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), young women should have their first gynecological visit between the ages of 13 and 15. The age range usually coincides with the early stages of puberty and when their body begins to mature and undergo many changes.
Greenberg added, “We are committed to meeting Gen Z where they are—through education, accessible care, and trusted provider relationships—to ensure young women receive the screenings, guidance, and support they need early on.”
Throughout the month of May, Women’s Health Connecticut encourages all women to:
- Schedule their annual wellness exams and preventive screenings
- Become informed about the latest well woman topics, including reproductive and hormonal health
- Build a strong relationship with a trusted, caring provider
- Prioritize both physical and mental well-being and put yourself first