Menopause

After reading the supplemental article about health beliefs and hormone replacement therapy, my opinion of HRT has not been clarified. It seems that the choice of whether or not to choose HRT is based upon a choice of the lesser of two evils. Without HRT women are left susceptible to osteoporosis, and with the use of HRT women are left with the possibility of developing cancer. Which is the right decision? I have come to the conclusion that the right choice differs greatly from woman to woman. A woman that has a family history of developing cancer should seriously consider their options before undergoing HRT, and vice versa for women at risk of osteoporosis.

STD Testing

Fortunately I have never been put in the position of helping a friend or loved one through a STD scare. However, if I did find myself in such a position, I would definitely urge them to speak with their physician as soon as possible. Your physician knows best and can recommend the best treatment for your particular circumstances. Sexually transmitted diseases can be very scary and intimidating, but lack of proper treatment can only make the situation worse.

I believe it is also important to remain a strong support system for friends or loved ones who have contracted an STD. It may seem humiliating or embarrassing for them, so more support and less judgement will be more beneficial and allow them an opportunity to regain their self-esteem.

Surrogate Mothers

It will never cease to amaze me how a woman can go through the entire process of pregnancy for someone else. I couldn't fathom being a surrogate mother, and God bless the women who choose to help couples that cannot achieve pregnancy for themselves. The connection a woman feels to her baby during pregnancy is remarkable to say the least. A woman would have to have the right mindset and a strong will to bring joy to other families. The emotional toll alone of pregnancy is enormous. It is quite apparent that surrogate mothers do not enter into such an agreement for the money. There simply is not a price tag that can be assigned a woman's emotions during and after pregnancy. How do you mentally prepare yourself for surrogacy?