National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. I know there a many "awareness months" during the year, and I tend to ignore many of them because they get a lot of national attention. But this one is important to me, especially the more that I learn about it and I feel it is important to share the facts and the brands that are supporting it - as in 100%.

Ovarian Cancer is named the silent killer for a reason; it has symptoms that are often mistaken for ordinary gastrointestinal symptoms. Things like bloating, gas, feeling full quickly, abdominal or pelvic pain and the need to urinate more frequently. Often women think they have IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and just dismiss it for a while. The thing is, these symptoms aren't that bad, but they persist and don't go away. If you have these symptoms that last for two weeks or more, you need to see your Gynecologist. Yes, your Gynecologist. And the sooner the better. You should not let these symptoms go; you should not have them for more than a few weeks - that is not normal. Your doctor will perform a screening for Ovarian Cancer which includes a pelvic exam, pelvic ultrasound and CA 125 blood test because there is not just one test that can diagnosis Ovarian Cancer. In fact, Ovarian Cancer usually cannot be fully diagnosed until after surgery - it is that difficult to diagnose. Usually, by the time a woman goes to the doctor and if it turns out to be Ovarian Cancer, it is an advanced stage of Ovarian Cancer, which is so scary, right? That is why I want to make every woman I know, aware of these simple, easy to miss symptoms. Again, the symptoms to be aware of:

• persistent bloating
• gas
• difficulty eating/feeling full quickly
• abdominal or pelvic pain
• constipation
• the need to urinate more frequently

I am painting my toes teal for the month of September to call attention to the fact it is the month of Ovarian Cancer Awareness. I am starting with essie Naughty Nautical and I am also looking into brands that may be supporting the cause. If you know of any, please let me know.

Laura Mercier has formed the Laura Mercier Ovarian Cancer Fund. Since its launch in 2012, the LMOCF has continued to educate women about the disease, support those who are undergoing treatment and fund research for a cure. They have donated over $300,000 to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center to help support cutting-edge research that is currently being conducted. I applaud their efforts.

The LMOCF raises funds by selling products where Laura Mercier Cosmetics donates 100% of the profits from the sales of 4 products to the fund. 

Laura Mercier Bonne Mine Palette - $48.00
An ultra-sheer, blendable palette that provides skin with a natural “no makeup” glow that looks soft and sun-kissed. The palette was inspired by Laura’s work with celebrity clients, who wanted a universal compact that would “wake-up” their skin and give them a healthy glow.

Laura Mercier Shop for a Cause Lip Glacé in Peach Hope - $25.00
A high-shine, perfectly pigmented lip gloss with rich, long-lasting colour and brilliant shine that creates the appearance of fuller lips. This luxe lip gloss glides on for peachy-pink shimmer and brilliant shine.

Laura Mercier Ovarian Cancer Fund Bracelet of Hope - $35.00

An inspirational piece of jewelry to empower every woman with courage, strength and energy. The precious stones, including freshwater pearls and crystal quartz, were hand-selected, and the bracelet is nickel and lead free.

Jenny Packham Teal Clutch - $300.00
Laura Mercier and world-renowned fashion designer Jenny Packham have partnered to create an exclusive teal clutch to benefit LMOCF. The clutch was inspired by Kate Middleton’s beautiful teal dress that she wore to Our Greatest Team Rises Gala dinner at London's Royal Albert Hall.

Take a look at some great resources for information on Ovarian Cancer:
National Ovarian Cancer Coalition
American Cancer Society
Ovarian Cancer National Alliance
Ovacome - Gynecological Cancer Alliance
Why Teal?
World Ovarian Cancer Day

Here is an infographic that shares a lot of facts on this heartbreaking disease.

Embedded from Health For Her

Please note, I am not a doctor, and I do not want my advice to take the place of your doctor. I am trying to make you aware of your body and bring awareness to Ovarian Cancer and the symptoms which often go unnoticed. If you feel like you have any of these symptoms, be safe and see your doctor at once.