Gynecologic Cancer Awareness is the Focus this Month

Caring for Your Health and Stewarding God’s Gift of Life

September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shed light on cancers that affect women’s reproductive systems, including ovarian, uterine, cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. For Christian women, awareness is not only about prevention and treatment—it is also about stewardship. God has entrusted us with our bodies, and caring for them is part of honoring Him.

Understanding Gynecologic Cancers

📖 “Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you… and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” — 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 KJV

Gynecologic cancers often develop silently, and early detection is vital. Here are the most common types:

• Ovarian Cancer – Often called the “silent killer,” symptoms may include bloating, pelvic pain, and changes in appetite.

• Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer – Usually presents with abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause.

• Cervical Cancer – Can often be prevented or detected early through routine Pap smears.

• Vaginal and Vulvar Cancers – Rare, but possible; symptoms may include itching, pain, or skin changes.

Risk Factors and Prevention

While some risk factors (such as age and family history) cannot be controlled, others can be managed. Steps to lower risk include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight and active lifestyle.

• Avoiding smoking, which increases cancer risk.

• Staying up to date with Pap tests and recommended screenings.

• Discussing family history with your healthcare provider.

Faith and Health Go Hand in Hand

Caring for your health is not a sign of fear but of wisdom. Scripture reminds us that God calls us to live with discernment and care.

📖 “A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.” — Proverbs 22:3 KJV

Just as we plan financially or spiritually, we must plan for our health by taking preventive measures and seeking medical attention when something feels wrong.

How You Can Take Action This Month

1. Schedule a Checkup: If you are overdue for your annual gynecologic exam, make the appointment this month.

2. Learn the Signs: Familiarize yourself with symptoms and risk factors.

3. Talk With Loved Ones: Share the importance of screenings with your daughters, sisters, and friends.

4. Pray for Women Fighting Cancer: Join in lifting up women who are currently battling gynecologic cancers, asking God for healing and peace.

Hope for the Journey

For those walking through a diagnosis, know this: you are not alone. God promises His presence in every valley.

📖 “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” — Isaiah 41:10 KJV

Whether prevention, early detection, or treatment, our hope rests in the One who holds our bodies and our futures.

✨ Truth Declaration: I will honor God by caring for my body, seeking wisdom in health, and trusting His presence through every season of life.

📖 “Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.” — Proverbs 31:25 KJV

Gynecologic Cancer Awareness is the Focus this Month