The Biggest Mistake Women Make About Their Health

And Why It’s Time to Change the Narrative

As a physician, daughter, mother, and woman, I’ve come to understand just how much we carry. We care deeply for others—our families, our communities, our careers—but so often, we don’t give ourselves that same level of care. One of the biggest health mistakes I see women make? Not establishing care with a primary care physician.

In fact, 45% of women have skipped at least one preventive visit, screening, or vaccination. That number speaks volumes. And the reasons behind it are deeply human, rooted in the demands of daily life and a system that often doesn’t work for us.

Let’s talk about why this happens—and how we can do better.


1. “I don’t have time.” 🌿

Women are time magicians—we somehow stretch minutes to care for children, meet work deadlines, support friends, and hold everything together. But that time often comes at the expense of our own well-being.

And the healthcare system doesn’t help: it can be frustrating, impersonal, and hard to navigate. That’s why in my Direct Primary Care practice, we make it easy—with flexible scheduling, text access, and care that respects your time.


2. “My OB/GYN covers everything, right?” 🌿

Your OB/GYN plays a vital role in your reproductive health—but that’s just one part of the picture. Primary care is about your whole health: your heart, your digestion, your skin, your energy, your emotional well-being.

And truthfully, most OB/GYNs are relieved when they know you have a PCP supporting your long-term health journey.


3. “But I’m healthy!” 🌿

I hear this a lot—especially from younger women. And I get it. You feel fine. So why invest time and energy in a doctor?

Because real health isn’t just the absence of disease. It’s the presence of vitality. Of longevity. Of vibrant aging. The earlier we begin building a foundation for lifelong wellness, the better our chances of aging with strength, purpose, and clarity. Think of it like a 401K for your health—what you invest now will pay dividends later.


4. “I follow wellness influencers instead.” 🌿

We live in an era of information overload. Instagram reels, TikTok trends, online supplement ads—it can feel like everyone is a health expert.

But not everything online is grounded in truth. Even smart, well-meaning friends can fall into the trap of slick marketing. That’s why it’s so important to have a science-based, open-minded physician you trust—someone who can help you make sense of the noise and choose what’s truly right for you.


5. “I’ve seen doctors before, but none of them really knew me.” 🌿

This one breaks my heart. So many women come to me after years of fragmented care—bouncing between specialists, urgent care, and impersonal visits. They feel unheard and unseen.

Continuity of care—being known by your physician—is one of the most healing aspects of medicine. In my practice, every visit is with me. We build a relationship over time, rooted in trust, compassion, and understanding.


Here’s the good news:
It’s never too late to start. I’ve built a practice designed for women who want to take their health seriously—and gently. The Direct Primary Care model allows me to combine traditional primary care with integrative and lifestyle medicine, so we can look at your whole health picture together.

Menopause Influencers Worth Following

Because good information leads to empowered decisions.

Navigating perimenopause and menopause can feel overwhelming—but the right voices can make all the difference. I encourage my patients to seek out science-backed, compassionate experts who are committed to sharing truthful, empowering information. Here are some of my top recommendations:


Menopause Experts You Can Trust

  • Dr. Jen Gunter@drjengunter
    OB/GYN and fierce advocate for evidence-based women’s health. Author of The Menopause Manifesto and a myth-busting powerhouse.
  • Dr. Susan Davis@professorsusandavis
    World-renowned menopause researcher and hormone therapy expert. A steady voice in science-based menopause care.

Perimenopause Support

  • Ovary_Active@ovary_active
    A warm and relatable podcast and Instagram hub focused on the perimenopause transition. Real talk and helpful tips.

General Health + Science Information

  • Dr. Lauren Kolens-Semple, PhD@drlaurencs1
    Exercise physiologist with science-driven advice on staying strong and healthy through midlife and beyond.
  • Dr. Fran@pagingdrfran
    Local OB/GYN providing smart, accessible content on all things reproductive health, from first periods to postmenopause.
  • Those Nerdy Girls@thosenerdygirls
    A team of women scientists answering health and wellness questions with clarity, compassion, and evidence.
  • Unbiased Science@unbiasedscipod
    Fighting misinformation with data, this podcast and account break down health news so you can make confident choices.

Following the right people is a great first step—but building a relationship with a physician who knows you is what brings it all together.

Let’s talk about your goals.
Click here to schedule your free 15-minute Meet and Greet.