By Dr Becky Spelman, Psychologist
Health on Female First
Despite considerable progress in recent generations, our culture still observes a range of taboos around women and their bodies, especially when it comes to their vagina. Let's consider why this might be:
- Women and girls still pick up from society the idea that their intimate areas are shameful or "dirty"; some even find it hard to say the word "vagina" out loud
- Often, the only depictions of female genitalia that women have seen are airbrushed images and completely unrealistic representations of what women's bodies "should" look like
- When women have a health problem, from an STD to a yeast infection, they may worry that they will be judged and found morally lacking, so less likely to reveal it
- Modesty can make women reluctant to talk to healthcare professionals, especially if they might be asked to examine their intimate area
- Women can worry that any uncomfortable symptom they experience might indicate that something is seriously wrong, and adopt a "head in the sand" approach
Top Five Ways We can Overcome These Concerns:
By understanding ourselves and our cultures better, we can find ways to engage with our intimate health much more positively and productively:
- Whatever term we choose to describe our vaginas, having a female reproductive system makes us a woman, no more and no less. Remember, there's nothing to be embarrassed about when it comes to looking after your intimate health
- It's important to understand that the female anatomy is very varied; there are lots of ways to be and look perfectly normal
- If you have an intimate health problem, the old saying that your doctor has "seen it all before" is completely true! They really have; remember your doctor isn't there to judge you, but to provide you with healthcare and advice
- Modesty has its place, but don't forget the doctor's surgery is private. While there may be a time when you need to show her your intimate area (like when you're having a smear test) it really is all just in a day's work for any doctor
- If something does go wrong or concern you, the sooner you and your doctor know all about it, the better. Most conditions involving the intimate parts of the body can be easily and effectively treated, especially if they are caught early. If you have any uncomfortable symptoms, don't delay in seeking help.
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