In honor of Women’s Health Month, we’re shining a light on Dr. Tomeka Roberts—a trailblazing physician, educator, and innovator who has served the Birmingham community since 2003. With a background in engineering and medicine, Dr. Roberts is passionate about empowering women and girls to make informed, healthy choices. As the founder of “Not On Our Watch” and the creator of a groundbreaking feminine wash, she continues to inspire and uplift women of all ages. Join us as Dr. Roberts shares her journey, her insights, and her vision for the future of women’s health.
What inspired you to specialize in Obstetrics and Gynecology, and what do you find most rewarding about this field?
Dr. Roberts: I actually went to school thinking I was going to be a biomedical engineer. I wanted to make the next artificial heart or develop innovative medical devices. During my engineering training, I shadowed an OB/GYN and fell in love with women’s health. As an OB/GYN, I get to take care of women in all facets of their lives—from the start of their periods, through the joys of pregnancy, and through the challenges of menopause. I absolutely love my job!
As a Board Certified OB/GYN, what are some of the most significant changes or advancements you’ve seen in women’s health over your career?
Dr. Roberts: No one should die from cervical cancer. With Pap smear screenings and the HPV vaccine, cervical cancer can possibly be prevented or at least caught early and treated. Also, fibroids are becoming more well-known. They are extremely common but not often talked about. If they are caught early, they can be managed.
You founded “Not On Our Watch” (NOOW) to educate young women about healthy behaviors. What motivated you to start this initiative, and what impact have you seen in the community so far?
Dr. Roberts: I founded Not On Our Watch because I noticed young women—my patients—were asking me the same questions repeatedly, or they didn’t have basic knowledge about their bodies and healthy habits that they should have at this point. I have seen tweens and teens become more confident about their bodies, and with that confidence, they make better choices.
You’ve developed an innovative feminine wash using your engineering background. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this product and what makes it different from others on the market?
Dr. Roberts: Many of my patients asked me what they could use to feel fresh and clean without disrupting their pH balance. At that time, there was nothing on the market I could recommend. My product is all-natural, with no parabens or sulfur, and it’s made in the USA. I have the unique qualification of being a board-certified OB/GYN with an engineering degree. I worked on this formula for over a year to make sure it was just right for my patients.
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