Tara Bussett, CRNP has been practicing women’s gynecologic health on the Main Line for over 20 years. She believes in creating lasting relationships with her patients that are rooted in trust, compassion, and the highest level of care. Tara recently joined the Main Line Fertility care team to see patients for non-fertility related gynecological care from adolescence through menopausal women.

Tara shared her advice for women during these unprecedented times:

Put on your oxygen mask first

Even prior to the pandemic, women assumed a number of roles and engaged in a majority of the unpaid work in the home. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the workload and pressures faced by many women – caring for elderly parents, homeschooling children, maintaining a work/life balance – to name a few. “I understand the pressures of being a working mom. I always remind my patients that they need to take good care of themselves first so they can properly care for their loved ones”, says Tara.

Don’t skip your doctor’s appointments

 Due to fears of COVID-19, some people have delayed or skipped their wellness visits, a dangerous trend that can make a big difference in longterm health.

Staying safe from the virus doesn’t necessarily mean forgoing preventive healthcare. Your annual doctor’s appointments are imperative in the early detection and treatment of serious diseases such as cancer, osteoporosis, and heart disease. The risk of forgoing breast exams, mammograms, pap smears, skin checks, and other important diagnostic tests and vaccines can far outweigh the slight risk of exposure to COVID-19 at your appointment. Tara notes, “We have taken extensive measures in my office to ensure a safe environment – only patients and care team members are allowed in the office, we sanitize frequently and everyone is required to wear a mask.”

It’s OK if you’re not OK (in fact, it’s normal)

Feeling overwhelmed and stressed during uncertain times is completely normal. Anxiety, fear, anger, sadness, helplessness, and feeling discouraged are just a few of the emotions you could experience. Physically, some women may even experience headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, and sleeplessness. Practicing self-care and asking for help are imperative during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maintain healthy habits

Moving your body at least 30 minutes a day, getting enough sleep, and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins is more important than ever. In addition to the psychological and emotional benefits of a healthy lifestyle, being at your physical best could be helpful in your recovery if you were to contract COVID-19.

To learn more, or to schedule an appointment with Tara Bussett, CRNP, visit mainlinefertility.com, contact the office at 610-853-1112 or email support@mainlinefertility.com

Tara Bussett, CRNP, specializes in well women visits, preconception counseling, contraceptive care, adolescent gynecology, and treating menopausal women at Main Line Fertility, located at 2010 West Chester Pike, Suite 350 in Havertown.

Main Line Fertility supports the Main Line Parent Community.