September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. You might think, “Meh, does that really make a difference at all?!” Good question.

However, I do think efforts around increasing women and healthcare providers’ knowledge of ovarian cancer’s vague, but persistent, symptoms is important and actually does make an impact.

One of my favorite ovarian cancer awareness organizations is Teal Toes, which encourages women to paint their toenails and fingernails teal – the ovarian cancer awareness color. It is a bold color, and it does grab attention. That’s why I chose to paint my fingernails. Now, every time someone comments on my nails – which I do not typically paint – I have the captive moment to share more about ovarian cancer and the persistent symptoms that need further evaluation: bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, trouble eating or feeling full quickly, and urgency or frequency of urination.

Go ahead. Break out the teal polish, and spread the awareness.