Health is Wealth, Pearls!

Amara, a 35-year-old black woman, has been experiencing a concerning issue with her bladder. The urgency and frequency of urination have significantly increased, causing discomfort and disruption in her daily life. Worried about her health, she seeks medical advice at a local hospital.

Scene: Hospital Examination Room

Amara sits anxiously on the examination table, waiting for the doctor to arrive. She notices that the hospital staff, including the nurse and doctor, are white. She hopes that they will listen attentively and take her concerns seriously.

Nurse Johnson enters the room, glancing briefly at Amara's chart before beginning the examination.

Nurse Johnson: "Good afternoon, I'm Nurse Johnson. What seems to be the problem today?"

Amara: "Hello, Nurse Johnson. I've been having some issues with my bladder lately. I've been experiencing frequent urination and a strong urgency to go, even if my bladder is not full. It's becoming quite bothersome, and I'm concerned it might signify something serious."

Nurse Johnson: "Well, sometimes increased urination can be due to stress or anxiety. Have you been feeling stressed lately?"

Amara: "I understand that stress can contribute to certain symptoms, but I don't think that's the primary cause in my case. This is a new and persistent issue that I've never experienced before. It affects my daily life, and I'm worried it might be more."

Nurse Johnson: "I see. Well, let's get you checked out, and the doctor will be in shortly to see you."

Nurse Johnson leaves the room, and Amara patiently waits for the doctor to arrive. She hopes the doctor will take her concerns more seriously and offer guidance or further tests.

Dr. Anderson enters the room, briefly looking at Amara's chart before addressing her.

Dr. Anderson: "Hello, I'm Dr. Anderson. What seems to be the problem today?"

Amara: "Hello, Dr. Anderson. I've been having increased frequency and urgency of urination. It's really affecting my daily life, and I'm concerned it might indicate a more significant issue."

Dr. Anderson: "Well, it's not uncommon for women to experience bladder issues. Have you tried cutting back on caffeine or drinking more water?"

Amara: "Yes, I have tried adjusting my fluid intake, and I'm aware that certain dietary factors can contribute to bladder problems. But I'm concerned that this is more than just a lifestyle issue. It's interfering with my work and personal life, and I need some answers."

Dr. Anderson: "I understand your concerns, but I think it's likely a benign issue. If you'd like, I can prescribe you some medication to help manage the symptoms."

Amara feels frustrated and unheard. She came seeking answers and a deeper investigation into her symptoms, but instead, she was being dismissed and offered a quick fix without further exploration.

Amara: "Dr. Anderson, I appreciate your willingness to prescribe medication, but I would like a more comprehensive evaluation. I'm concerned about the underlying cause and would like further tests or referrals if necessary."

Dr. Anderson: "I understand your concerns, but I believe it's unlikely that there's anything serious going on. If the symptoms persist or worsen, then we can explore further options."

Feeling defeated but determined, Amara decides to seek a second opinion from a different healthcare provider, one who will listen to her concerns and take her health issues seriously.

In this scenario, the predominantly white hospital staff dismissed Amara's concerns about her bladder malfunction. Despite expressing her worries and requesting further investigation, she was met with a lack of understanding and offered a simplistic solution without adequate examination. This highlights the importance of advocating for oneself and seeking alternative medical opinions when faced with dismissive attitudes toward health concerns.

Here are some steps to demonstrate Strength, Resilience, and Sparkle! as a Black woman on your health journey. 
1. Educate Yourself: Gain knowledge about common health issues that affect black women disproportionately, such as heart disease, diabetes, reproductive health, and mental health. Stay informed about the latest research, treatment options, and healthcare policies that may impact your well-being.
2. Build a Supportive Network: Connect with other black women who share similar health concerns and experiences. Join support groups, attend community events, or participate in online forums where you can exchange information, share resources, and receive emotional support. This can empower you and provide you with a sense of belonging.
3. Find a Culturally Competent Healthcare Provider: Seek out healthcare professionals with experience and understanding of the unique healthcare needs and challenges black women face. A culturally competent provider will likely listen, validate your concerns, and provide appropriate care.
4. Be Your Own Advocate: When visiting healthcare providers, be prepared to assert yourself and advocate for your needs. Clearly communicate your symptoms, concerns, and medical history. Don't be afraid to ask questions, seek second opinions, or request additional tests or treatments if necessary. Remember, you are an expert on your own body, and your voice matters.
5. Document Your Health History: Keep a record of your health history, including previous diagnoses, medications, surgeries, and family medical history. This can help you provide accurate information to healthcare providers and ensure comprehensive care.
6. Seek Regular Preventive Care: Prioritize regular check-ups and screenings to detect potential health issues early. Preventive care can help you maintain good health and promptly address any emerging problems.
7. Practice Self-Care: Take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Prioritize activities that promote relaxation, stress reduction, and self-care, such as exercise, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy.
8. Engage in Health Advocacy: Get involved in advocacy efforts to improve healthcare access, quality, and outcomes for black women. Join local or national organizations focusing on health disparities or women's health, participate in awareness campaigns, share your story, and support policy initiatives addressing systemic issues.
9. Remember, your experiences and concerns are valid. By taking an active role in your healthcare, staying informed, and advocating for yourself, you can increase your chances of receiving the best possible care and taking your health concerns seriously. Embrace your strength, resilience, and accomplishments, and let them shine through in your interactions with healthcare providers.