De-stigmatizing and Normalizing Women’s Health
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I believe we should hold more open conversations for women’s health so we can destigmatize it and educate others. Using myself as an example, my lack of knowledge in women’s health caused me to suffer in silence when I had my first yeast infection.
I was 20 years old. I was confused about the itching and redness down there, but I didn’t dare mention it to anyone out of fear that they would judge me. I thought maybe I just needed to clean harder and with more soap. Turns out, I was making it worse for myself!
Yeast infections can be caused for multiple reasons such as douching, wearing tight clothing, high estrogen levels, pregnancy, and in my case, antibiotics. I had gotten an infection in my lymph nodes and it made me very ill, so I went to the hospital. This is where they supplied me with many antibiotics and steroids, all of which had completely thrown off my PH balance.
After many days of burning and even bleeding, I met with a gynecologist for the first time where she told me the antibiotics had killed the good bacteria in my vagina, causing the yeast infection. Using scented soaps and other harsh personal hygiene products had just irritated the sensitive tissues even more.
I write this for all of you to read so you can learn from my mistakes. The minute you feel something is wrong, go see your doctor, or visit a clinic! Don’t be afraid to speak up, it's your health on the line. It took a few months for the good bacteria to flourish again and balance my PH, but the symptoms were easily fixed with a simple, one-time pill.
I want to be as open and honest as possible because there's this misconception that women with yeast infections are dirty and don’t clean well, and sometimes the infection is even mistaken for an STI/STD. It's essential to break down these stigmas so women feel less embarrassed and can get the help they need.
Yeast infections are common and can happen to anyone, regardless of their hygiene practices or sexual activity. Women should feel comfortable seeking medical advice and treatment for any health concern without fear of judgment.
With much love,
Taty <3
