Honoring the Heart of the Family: A Mother's Day Reflection from IWC Primary Care

There’s something deeply powerful about the way a mother carries the weight of the world while still offering her arms to comfort others. This Mother’s Day, we pause to celebrate the women who have given so much of themselves—those who nurture, lead, heal, and protect without asking for anything in return.

At IWC Primary Care, we know that a mother’s love is not just felt—it is lived. It’s present in the early mornings before school, in the long nights after work, in the silent prayers over hospital beds, and in the patient listening when a child stumbles into adulthood. But we also know that the journey of motherhood often includes quiet sacrifices, including the one so many women make: putting their own health last.

This year, we offer more than a warm wish. We offer a moment of reflection—and a call to care for yourself with the same grace and intention that you show others.

The Changing Seasons of a Woman’s Health

A woman’s health needs are not one-size-fits-all. They evolve with time, with childbirth, with age, and with the demands of caregiving. At IWC Primary Care, we walk with women through each stage, understanding that good health is not just about lab results—it’s about being seen, heard, and supported.

Early Motherhood: Healing in the Background

The months after childbirth are often painted in soft colors—baby blankets, lullabies, first smiles. But for many women, this time is also marked by sleepless nights, hormonal fluctuations, and silent worry. It is common to feel exhausted or even emotionally distant after giving birth. What is less common, unfortunately, is for new mothers to speak openly about postpartum depression or anxiety.

Regular follow-up visits, thyroid screenings, and mental health check-ins can make all the difference. Pelvic floor discomfort and changes in bladder function are also frequent but often overlooked. These concerns are not just a “normal part of motherhood”—they are medical conditions that deserve care.

Midlife: Balancing Acts and Warning Signs

For women in their 30s and 40s, life can feel like a marathon. Careers are in full swing, children are growing, and aging parents may begin to need support. In the midst of these demands, a woman’s body quietly begins to send signals—rising blood pressure, irregular periods, or persistent fatigue.

This is the stage where preventive care becomes essential. Annual physical exams, complete blood panels, and screenings for diabetes, cholesterol, and thyroid function help detect changes early. Women in this age group should also pay attention to emotional well-being. Persistent stress, low mood, and anxiety are more than mental health issues—they can affect the entire body if left unaddressed.

Perimenopause and Menopause: Redefining Wellness

Between the late 40s and early 50s, many women begin to experience changes in memory, sleep, energy levels, and temperature regulation. These aren’t imagined—they’re signs of perimenopause and menopause, a natural transition that affects everything from heart health to bone density.

During this phase, it’s important to have a care team that takes time to explain what’s happening, listens to your concerns, and works with you to create a personalized plan. Hormonal therapy, nutrition, exercise, and emotional support are all part of a balanced approach.

Aging with Intention: Thriving in the Golden Years

As women grow older, they often step into the role of matriarch—providing guidance, love, and legacy to the generations that follow. But just as women pour into others, they must be reminded to pour back into themselves.

For women over 65, Medicare covers a wide range of preventive services, including mammograms, bone density scans, colon cancer screenings, and annual wellness visits. Staying active, both mentally and physically, helps reduce the risk of falls and cognitive decline. More importantly, regular connection—through church, family, support groups, or community programs—plays a vital role in preserving emotional health.

At IWC Primary Care, we see the whole person behind the medical chart. We understand that aging is not a condition—it’s a continuation of the story. And every story deserves care, dignity, and respect.

To All Mothers—We See You, We Thank You

This Mother’s Day, we honor the women who shape our communities, anchor our families, and inspire our futures. We know how often your needs are put on hold so others can thrive. That’s why we want you to know that your health is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. And you don’t have to navigate it alone.

At IWC Primary Care, our team—led by Dr. Suzanne Afflalo, Nurse Practitioner Danielle Gordon, and Nurse Practitioner Monica Cistrone—takes pride in offering compassionate, personalized care to women across every stage of life. Whether it’s scheduling your annual wellness visit, managing a chronic condition, or simply offering a safe space to be heard, we are here for you.

Because behind every strong family is a strong woman. And behind every strong woman should be a team who cares.

Happy Mother’s Day—from our family to yours.