Comfort is really important to me. It’s why I get changed back into my Pyjamas as soon as I get through the front door, it’s why I don’t really like wearing socks because I feel more comfortable in bare feet, it’s why I prefer to have feather pillows on the bed. We spend a lot of time and effort on the things around us to make sure we’re comfortable, but often forget the most important part; our own bodies.
How I feel about my body has changed a lot in the past few years. In my teens and twenties I was really body concious, screening all outfits to make sure they flattered my figure, even if it wasn’t particularly comfortable. I wore padded bras, suck-it-all in pants and it was a relief to get home after a night out and take it all off! Now it has grown and birthed two children, it then nurtured both those children by breastfeeding, it then chased the older one and now the younger one around and kept them happy. It’s a different shape now, and one I am far less reluctant to hide, and I’m happy with it!
I am actually much happier to talk about my body since having children and entering my thirties, I’m even slightly happier to talk about my ‘private parts’ these days, as once you’ve had a child it’s not really private any more even when you have a C section like I did. But even now I sometimes inwardly cringe when the subject comes up, even though it rarely does!
Why exactly are we so reluctant to talk about our ‘bits’? People worry about smear tests, but they could be life saving, people don’t talk about thrush but suffer in silence. I bet almost every adult woman has experienced it, but I don’t think I’ve actually talked about it in person to anyone other than my mum before, and her advice was to use natural yoghurt on a tampon! So here we go, a post about looking after yourself down there, and why we shouldn’t be afraid to chat about it! I talk to my friends about what face wash I could use to reduce blackheads, and what hand cream to use to stop dryness. Why should I not talk about my front-bum! I remember really suffering with thrush just after I had Athena, although many women get thrush during pregnancy not after! When people came over to see my lovely week old baby and asked how I was I wanted to say “my fanny is on fire! It’s more painful than recovering from a C section in fact! For almost a week I was suffering from excruciating pain, as well as the post-partum blood loss. Finally I got the courage to go and see a pharmacist and with the aid of cream and an oral tablet it was gone in a day or two.
So why do we cringe when the topic of our fannies arises? After all we’ve all got one! We rarely ever even call it a vagina, but that’s what it is! You might have noticed me referring to the intimate parts by several different names so far in this post to avoid saying vagina, isn’t it daft?We’ve taught our toddler to call hers a ‘foo foo’ as we’d not really thought about it when she asked and that was the first thing the sprang to mind, but thinking about it why have we not just called it what it is? Why is there such a stigma about it, and why don’t we talk about them very often! If we cant even decide what to call it, how am I going to confidently teach her about good health down there! I am going to make a real effort to ensure that she knows about good intimate health, and that she’s not afraid to talk about it, whatever she ends up calling it! I don’t remember thrush ever being mentioned in sex-ed/health classes at school, even when they split the girls and the boys up and had the perfect opportunity to teach a captive audience!
It’s just as important to keep your vagina healthy and clean (there! look I said it!) as it is to brush your teeth! Knowing how to look after it properly will mean less instances of thrush too, not using perfumed products and wearing cotton pants for example. Canesten want to help make sure you #GetComfortable at home and have a whole host of useful information online. I’ve just read through the info there and found out some causes I had no idea about, and I’m in my thirties? Why aren’t we talking about this stuff, we could (and should!) be helping each other out!
So tell me, Do you find feminine health a difficult topic to discuss? If so, why do you think that is? If you’re willing to write me a an answer in the comments below then you could be in with a chance of winning a £50 John Lewis voucher thanks to Canesten, who are really working hard to try and end the stigma of talking about our intimate areas. If you’re a mother to a girl, please don’t let the awkwardness continue for another generation, talk to your daughters!
See rafflecopter widget for complete T&Cs, ends 7/1/16 at midnight.
This post has been supported by Canesten, but all thoughts are my own
More competitions at ThePrizeFinder
I’m not shy about talking about fanjos and fajitas 😉 I think becoming a mother certainly loosens you up when it comes to intimate conversations
I never felt uncomfortable talking about feminine health concerns, after being poked and prodded for many years cause I never had periods I have lost count how many doctors have seen my bits and bobs,
No, I don’t find this article embarassing, offensive or hard to read/discuss. After being investigated for infertility many years ago, then delivering 6 babies, I have had to discuss that part of my anatomy many many times and had many people look at it too!
wow! 6 babies! Go you, and yes I bet you’ve had to talk about it a fair bit with 6 births!
I’m not shy about it – especially after having my kids!
I have to say before I had children I found it very difficult to talk about my bits but after two horrific births and the mess I was left in after the first one, I had to start opening up as I needed help and advice. X
from a male viewpoint, I have no issue at all with reading or discussing this subject, having been through many medical issues with my Wife and also being very involved in her pregnancy and the birth of our Daughter, then our Daughter’s pregnancy and her giving birth to our Grandson I am pretty matter of fact about it. However this has come with age and life experience I don’t think I felt like this as a very young man!
thanks for a gents perspective! I’m so glad that you’re happy talk about it now, and maybe in future generations it will be more normal!
We’re not embarrassed about talking about our ‘foo foos’ either. In fact we’re encouraging Baby Isabella to make sure she cleans and looks after her little one. It’s really important to look after ones body and health, every part of it. My mummy suffers from Endometriosis so is very conscious about how she feels down THAT part of the world…anything to make her feel more comfortable makes her more happy! …long gone are the days of skyscraper shoes and push-up bras!! 😉
I’m so glad you’re not shying away from talking about it!
Brilliant post, I don’t know why people get so weird about it! I just done a pregnancy update and was talking about bladder weakness which is something else no-one talks about. These things are important and common though, well done for speaking about it! Great giveaway too 🙂 xx
Yes! me and my bladder were not friends in the latter stages of my pregnancies!
i think i depends o who you are talking to & yes since having children it’s much easier haha
I’m not really one to get embarrassed about talking about vaginas, but I think that’s because I often just speak without thinking!
I agree, people are more shy about talking about their lady region, but thats just how the issues start because people get too scared to say uh oh somethings not right!
Sophie x
luckily i havent had much to talk about, but i feel fine about talking with my partner, he listens no judgement
I’ve always found it a difficult topic to discuss . I’ve been sitting here wondering why and in the end, I honestly don’t know! Is it a British thing? Or is there a lack of vagina-chat (i thought of that phrase and had to MAKE myself type it) across the globe? I think I could get through an uncomfortable discussion with my Mum if I had to, and my best friend has had 3 kids and definitely doesn’t shy away from the topic. But I can’t imagine ever talking to anyone else about it, my sister included.
No I find it easy talking about things like that with family and friends
Yes I find it difficult to talk about – and I certainly wouldn’t discuss it with my male doctor. On the rare events its necessary, I would speak to the nurse or the female doctor at our practice. I have no idea why its so difficult – I’m not easily embarrassed about much, I suppose its because it seems to be one of those “taboo” subjects that just isn’t talked about (don’t worry, lol, I don’t have any daughters!).
It depends on who you talk too some people make you abnormal but having problems is bound to happen to everyone at some point.
I’ve always been able to talk freely about it, and it’s not something that embarrasses me in the slightest.
What a fab post! I’m not shy about talking about my bits, especially after having a baby which involved two sweeps, having a nurse shove a pessary up there to induce me, then having my waters broke. These all involved different nurses. Then various people with their hands prodding around when Rowan got stuck in my pelvis. Then a legs akimbo session in the operating theatre, then a c-section. Then a number of smear tests.
Anyway, one thing that really annoys me is women who won’t have a smear test because they are too shy and don’t want anyone prodding around. Ridiculous when a smear test can save a life!
So, yes I’m not shy when it comes to the vagina ?
Laura x
Oh wow, your poor foofoo after all that invasion! Yes, a moment of awkwardness for the chance to see if you need potentially life saving treatment! seems so daft when you put it like that doesn’t it!
I love when bloggers talk about female health issues – we all go through some issue or other with ours eventually (I’m exceptionally prone to thrush, personally). Hopefully blog posts like this will break the stigma soon!
I used to be… but having three daughers I was determined that they wouldn’t feel the same – they can talk to me about anything… even our fannies 😉
Yes! Thank you for being so positive about fannies! 🙂
I used to be shy about talking about my bits, but not so much after having kids. All dignity is lost! I have a friend who is a GP and she recently went to a Vulva Convention. We had a great time talking about it after! x
I think it depends who I’m talking to really, I’ve had pelvic examinations before and the only person I told comfortably was my boyfriend, I told my mum but not in detail.. I do agree though, we shouldn’t have to feel embarrassed about it! This is a great post 🙂 x
not really i work in a chemists and hear alot of different things
not at all. we all have them, we all have problems with allsorts at some point in our lives. Im not going to suffer in silence.
Nope nope nope can’t talk about it! Can’t even look at it directly! Haha. Wish it was less of a taboo!
After children all modesty goes out of the window! We freely talk about fanny-anns and winkies in our house 😉 Kaz x
Depends who I am talking to my girls and partner I am fine talking too other family members I can get a bit uncomfortable .
If I have to discuss women things,I’m afraid I talk about it in a very roudabout way unless it’s with my husband.It’s probably because my Mum has never been comfortable about discussing things.
I don’t as always been very open around friends And family we talk about everything xxx
I’m a very open person and I’m happy to chat about anything with ease! I often have friends come to me for sex toy advice as they know I’m fine about chatting – best way to be I think x
I am comfortable talking about it with friends and family however, I have had to discuss it with a male line manager in the past which I have to admit I did find difficult!
You are absolutely right – it is such a taboo subject and it shouldn’t be. It’s just another part of our bodies. I think it stems from the ‘olden days’ when women weren’t meant to talk about periods or their private parts (even I’m having trouble writing vaginas) but it’s 2015 and we need to move on from that. xx
Lauren – amazing post!
I think the reason why we don’t talk about our front-bums openly is because we are all too concerned about how ours might be perceived in the outside world? Is it hairy? Is it spotty? Do I look like I have wings? When actually we should all take a more manly approach and compare notes. Be proud of what we have and what an amazing bit of ‘machinery’ it is! And of course be open to talking about it for our own health benefits! x
Since having my babies I am definitely not afraid to discuss intimate health or vaginas! As a teenager I would have been mortified at the thought of discussing thrush or having a smear, but life has toughened me up a bit! This post has also made me realise that I have no idea what to tell R to say when she asks what her ‘bits and pieces’ are called! Vagina might be a bit hard for her to manage! 🙂 xx
I think it’s hard to talk about feminine hygiene and “problems” as its something that’s instilled to be “private”, which is a good point of view to have as you’re then in control of your own body, but at the same time it then goes too far when women are then scared to go to the doctors in fear of being judged that they’re “dirty” or something. It’s hard to find a middle ground, especially when you’re young.
I do find it funny how open you become after having a baby, though. I have no qualms telling people how I feel now when it comes to my busy. It’s funny.
im quite open about it after having children it doesnt seem to be worth it to be shy about it
I don’t really get embarrassed i just am honest with all the questions i get from the little ones! 🙂
I have 2 daughters and after the first was born (she’s now 8) I can remember having a discussion about what we should call her ‘bits’! In the end she ended up naming them herself and calls her vagina her ‘bumbum’ and her bottom her ‘bum’. We have talked quite a lot about the body and what the correct names for your body parts are and we never make it a big issue when we talk about vaginas and penises. I think the reason that names get invented is because the word ‘vagina’ is such a harsh word!
I do find it hard to talk to my partner ! It’s something I have accepted that one struggles on their your own
Maybe when I was younger but I don’t find it awkward at all!
Mo. I go see a women doctor just remember its there job and they have seen & heard it all before, many times
It’s better once you have children to discuss some things but there are only 2 people I would discuss private feminine issues with.
I’m fine with talking about it with my daughters – they call it their ‘mini’, but they know it’s important to tell me if anything feels different, and we’ve had an age-appropriate period chat. I find it ost embarrassing to talk about with my husband!! I’ve got really sensitive skin and the skin around my fanny can get very irritated, meaning I can’t shave. Only this week he confessed that he thought Id gone off him, when in fact I’ve been embarrassed to show him, by scabby, furry bits!
I find it difficult I think because I was brought up in a family where we didnt talk about things like that!
No I don’t – I can understand fully why people can find it difficult and I may have done some years ago but as a foster carer and working with many young women I am fine at discussion on most subjects. I did a speak easy course which was helpful too
Luckily my partner is a doctor so I don’t have any qualms about discussing it with him, but I would never feel happy talking about it with most other people. I used to live in Madrid and the Spanish are the total opposite to us, they will discuss their health with all and sundry!x
No i don’t find feminine health a difficult topic. When trying for my first child i found it difficult to conceive so i have been poked and prodded down below for many years before i fell pregnant. I was shy at first as i had never been examined before. But especially after having my first child i am more comfortable about this topic as i know Dr’s have seen it all before! I would especially recommend talking to someone you can confide in if you find it hard and maybe take them along to see a Dr if you feel something is wrong.
I don’t find it offensive to read. i do find it embarrassing to talk about it with any tom dick or harry but will happily discuss with trusted friends.
I had my first baby in September, nothing bothers me with feminine issues now x
no im quite open and think we are all the same 🙂
I don’t find it difficult – I tend to use humour when it allows.
No , I do not find it difficult to talk about .And no one in my family does either.
Nope – it could save your life talking about it.
I was never shy but since having 3 kids and repair surgery on my undercarriage I have no hang ups whatsoever
Not a subject I tend to discuss, as is a private and personal subject for each individual. Seems a topic for Health Professionals, Health Educators etc. Maybe there is a need for the subject to be discussed in Health forums etc. There may be some who would benefit from up to date accurate relevant information, etc.
talking helps a lot
For some reason it just feels taboo but if everyone spoke about it more it wouldn’t be..
No I can’t say I’d find the topic difficult to discuss, though there is a limit to how much I want to ehar aout other people’s fanjo issues.
no not at all why would i
I do. Nothing would make it easier it’s like going to the dentist.
As a healthcare professional, I don’t find it hard to talk about, but there is a definite stigma against reproduction and the reproductive organs which needs to be targetted
I used to get embarrassed and then I had 3 kids and after child birth nothing seems that embarrassing anymore
I’m quite open about things like this! All my friends know I regularly suffer from thrush lol! However, I completely agree with you that I never just call it a vagina, I feel like all words for it have horrible connotations and I do find it embarrasing calling it anything! I think it should definitely be spoken more about in schools
Ive always been super open about feminine health and those who know me know thats how I am.
Nope, I find it easy to talk about.. although I do think it would help if in schools it was talked about more and made less embarrassing.
It definitely depends who I am talking to about it!
When talking to friends then yes but anyone else then its a firm no!
I dont find it a difficult subject now I’m older but in my younger days I found it hard to discuss, especially after having four kids.
I’ve always been quite happy to talk about the subject with my friends and daughter
I’ve always found it difficult to discuss personal issues, although once my daughters initiate a conversation, for some reason I’m okay with that.
Thanks for a fab giveaway 🙂 x
Actually I probably share too much sometimes lol, but on the plus side it does mean friends are happy to come and chat with me as well.
Could be embarrassing to talk to some people about, but close friends would be ok.
Definitely find it easier after having my daughter though still can be awkward!
I can’t help but blush and yet I don’t know why.
I am quite open about it and in fact was having a conversation about smear tests with my friend the other day! I think we should be more open about intimate issues and our bodies – how will our daughters learn if we don’t talk about them?
Not too bad! Although I suppose it depends on who it’s with, close family talking is completely fine but even with a doctor I feel just a tad embarrassed. It is indeed bizarre considering it’s completely normal, haha 😉
It is hard to talk about, especially when women are made to feel ‘dirty’ by companies like Femfresh when in fact, vaginas have a natural scent that doesnt need to be washed away with a specialist soap.
i always think you shouldnt put things off and try and talk about things as soon as you think of them. The more you put it off the harder it gets to talk about it
I have no issue discussing my bits!
I had a C Section too, oh the pain when having a pee afterwards, for about a month. Depends of course who I’m talking with but I’m not embarrassed to talk about more intimate health issues, had to get over all that through pregnancy etc.
No problem now discussing feminie health but I did when I was younger.
I don’t have a problem with talking about it to certain people, definitely not my mum tho. Its just not something we ever really talked about.
I’m still quite embarrassed about it perhaps not as open about the subject as I should, I think it would help if other people talked about it more! 🙂
I think it depends who I’m talking to, but most of the time I’m ok with talking about it if its a close friend or a female doctor x
I have always been open with my daughter about everything and her friends as i feel they should feel it’s natural what women go through and that they never feel awkward in later life..Now my daughter talks to me about anything..
I don’t get embarrassed, we’re all human and have the same functions
It depends on with who… I’m comfortable with talking to my inner circle about these matters.
It’s definately easier to discuss such things after having children , not only with health professionals but also with friends who are mums too.
I don’t mind talking about it .. you soon realise that most people suffer from the same thing!
This year I found that I had pre-cancerous changes in my cervix and had to have a procedure to remove part of the cervix. It was picked up at my smear which I was actually trying to avoid, and although I knew something was wrong I wouldn’t have gone to my Dr about it, so I’m so glad I went and will always go in future.
I would never talk about it with my family but would maybe discuss with friends after a few drinks. I work in a hospital and know we should all be less shy about this and talk more freely 🙁
I am quite happy to talk about it and feel that the more people talk about health issues then the easier it is
I would have been mortified to discuss these topics as a teen or in my early twenties, but now I find it much easier to discuss
I can talk about it openly with people who are open with me but I find it difficult to broach the subject. I think if there was more information available publicly on it, it wouldn’t be seen as such a taboo subject.
No ive never had a problem with talking about that area. To family or friends. Sometimes you have worries and its good to know you have people you can talk to about them
As a mum of twins whose first born twin was bottom breech and I ended up with 52 stitches, inside and out! I am now not embarrassed at all about intimate issues! I needed a lots of treatments due to the traumatic birth and I now have problems with my menstrual cycle and have needed several examinations and procedures. I think as you get older the embarrassment and nervousness does get better.
I don’t find it difficult amongst close family and friends
I do find fem health a little embarrassing to talk about but I think that`s an age thing.
Its not a taboo subject anymore male or female, so I have no problem
Luckily I don’t find it that difficult – as long as I’m either talking to a professional or one of my mates!!!
I do find it quite embarrassing. Although I’ve found as I’ve gotten older I’ve realised that a moments embarrassment is better than a lifetime of regret , if its something serious.
I still find it embarrassing to talk to Doctors, especially a male Doctor! It’s easier for me to talk about these things with my close family and friends.
I don’t let things like that bother me anymore, I’ve seen enough to know that life is too short and if you need to talk about something then you should!
I’m not embarrassed about talking about vaginas especially since having my daughter. I’ve always tried to be very open with her about periods, cleanliness and other feminine hygiene issues
I dislike talking about smear tests, it would probably be easier if my friends were more open about it and if girls were more educated about them while still in school
I’m not embarassed, it is what it is!
No, I don’t find it embarrassing, I find it quite comfortable talking with friends.
I don’t think this is really an embarrassing issue for most people anymore
i am quite happy and at ease with this subject
I’m quite uncomfortable with the subject but then I have a history which caused PTSD and Borderline Personality Disorder and that area is a sore point, however I can talk about it with those I am very close to and trust, like my husband or mother x
I don’t have a problem discussing the subject – having a baby probably helps being more at ease
Thanks for the chance in your giveaway
I don’t find it embarrasing, especially if i’m talking to other women
I agree with many of the other posters that once you have had children you can talk opening about intimate matters concerning your body. I made an appointment with the doctors a few years ago re. ‘women matters’ and got a male doctor – didn’t bother me in the least. I was however somewhat annoyed at the end when he told me they had a couple of lady doctors at the surgery and perhaps I should visit one of them with ‘women things’. I had no problems why should he?
My mum would never speak to us about anything like this, and although I wouldn’t say I was completely comfortable I do make the effort to discuss intimate health with my daughter quite openly if she asks anything, and at least pretend that I’m comfortable because I think it is important that she can come to me for anything!
i find it can be hard to talk to with men around, but not women!
Once you had a baby and had all your bits on display its never as bad … I have had a bowel op so I have had my dignity put to the test … think as you get older it gets easier to talk about stuff
After having 3 kids i am not shy about talking about anything slightly intimate haha
Im not shy – like many I’ve had kids so it becomes less embarrassing
i don’t find it easy as i embaress easily, less so since have 4 kids but still find it awkward although find seeing a female gp or nurse helps
I like to try and see the same doctor every time
Not shy at all. Want my daughter to be comfortable growing up so we have discussions all the time.
When talking to doctors/nurses, just remember these are trained professionals and (not easy I know) they have seen it all before. If possible write down your symptoms/worries etc to prompt you if you get tongue tied
im still so shy about it! about 9 months after having my daughter i was still too sore to have sex and i was mortified telling the HV!
When I was growing up, although my Mum was a young Mum, she didn’t like to talk about ‘lady things’. I on the other hand, have always been very open with my children, talked about things often, and made almost a joke of some things so they don’t feel awkward. I have 2 Sons and 2 Daughters, and all of them know they can discuss such things.
I don’t avoid it, I just get on with it. I wouldn’t let anything stop me getting help for any ‘down there’ issues. You just grit your teeth and do what needs to be done!
I’m not shy about it – especially since becoming a mother.
There’s really not much to talk about, or anyone to talk about it to, but I don’t think I would be too shy
no, im quite open about it all.
After having 2 children I am more relaxed talking about feminine issues, but prefer to talk to a female dr or nurse.
I’m more than happy to discuss mine – especially after an abnormal smear test and the agony of waiting for additional test results.
Still a strangely taboo subject which makes people uncomfortable. The media could go a long way to de-sensitising the topic by including it more, breaking down the barriers. It would become much more commonplace, taking away the awkwardness.
As a young girl I was embarrassed to discuss things of an intimate nature but age and having my own daughter has made this much easier.
I don’t find it hard at all – after years of having problems downstairs and the discovery of PCOS and endometriosis I have been prodded and poked, peered at and inspected so many times it really doesn’t faze me
YES… Instantly makes me feel odd. I’e no idea why. I think we should talk more about it to remove the awkwardness x
i find it easy to talk about
I find it uncomfortable to talk about I think there is still a stigma for people to talk about vaginas
1this topic is fine for me to discuss
If there is something to talk about then i will. i dont talk about my fungal toe either.
It can be embarrassing but if you talk to a friend the chances are they’ve gone through the same thing or know someone that has
Very shy about it, find it difficult
Depending on who you are discussing it with, of course speaking about your downstairs can be a bit awkward. BUT, once you start discussing it, it really isn’t anything to be shy about and like anything, will get easier once you take the plunge!
Not amongst friends but with others yes
It depends on the context really, if it needs talking about then I have no problem. But I would be a bit taken aback if someone I didn’t really know started talking to me about stuff like this
I did have difficulty discussing things like this until I was ill. In hospital for 3 weeks as they did not know what was wrong with me all I can say about that is my dignity was left at the door. I lost count of the examination I had, although I did agree to being examined by students. I now feel discussing female health is very important and getting the word out there with articles like this can only help. Thanks
I’m not shy about it – AS I HAVE 4 GIRLS LOL
I am not shy talking about it, i like talking about it and maybe finding out more, but i find it difficult having that part of my body examined as i’ve had some bad experiences in the past 🙁
I was very lucky that I grew up with a mum who was completely honest and open about all things “womanly”. She told me about thrust and symptoms to look out for before i ever experience my first bout. When I was 18 I had some medical issues that required a lot of prodding and poking down there by various doctors – after that, any lingering trace of embarrassment I might have had completely disappeared! I have met girls/ladies who were embarrassed to even buy sanitary towels, let alone talk about their vagina, and I find it really sad. It’s as much a part of a normal human body as an arm or a leg and we certainly should not make anyone feel like their genitals are dirty or shameful.
I used to find it difficult but then when I had a scare I realised it’s important to make sure we talk about it. I think more advertisements / posters etc would be helpful to start people talking about it.
I am not embarrassed about talking about it all,at the end of the day if you do not talk about these things then that is when problems arise because you are too scared to ask for help or opinions.Best thing is to find someone that you really feel comfortable with or talk to a doctor they have heard and seen everything you can think of and more.
I’m ok with it, my eldest daughters are too. we’ve always been quite open about it
it depends who i’m talking to about it
I don’t find it embarrassing because I am a pharmacist and I have heard a lot worse things in the middle of the shop than somebody asking for thrush cream
My wife isn’t shy about such things, esp with close family & trusted friends
I used to find it difficult but now I’m older I don’t just have to remember it’s normal and everyone goes through the same. Pick a person you trust or see a gp as its confidential and once you open up its never as bad as you think x
Talking about it with a friend first then talking to a female practitioner in a not so formal enviroment
I am very open minded and talk about everything it’s only natural x
no no problem at all
many thanks for opportunity to win a great prize
It can be embarrassing as you don’t want to feel abnormal
I think once you’ve had children any inhibitions go out the window. It should never be hard to speak with professionals as they have no doubt heard it all before.
It can be embarrassing when you are a young girl. It’s always easier to talk to a female doctor obviously. Xx
It depends on the topic and who I am speaking to.
I d with men, but not with women. I always ask for a female GP and I’m OK.
I don’t find anything difficult to talk about with my doctor. I don’t feel it’s anything that needs discussing amongst friends though, I don’t discuss any aspect of my health with my friends. I don’t feel it’s necessary, if I’m concerned about anything I’ll speak to the doctor. I’m also happy to talk to my husband about anything.
I dont feel comfortable with my own body so topics like this are awkward, I guess more sexual education lessons could be given to make everyone more aware
great post
no, not with lots of sisters and a very open and honest mother x
I have no problems talking about it – since having a smear early then treatment for abnormal cells and yearly smears ever since (got the all clear last year so nomore yearly smears woo) I find it became easier to talk about certain things and with some people we really do go into a shocking amount of detail and aren’t shy but my mum finds it rude.. growing up it was referred to a mary and nothing more! even growing up. I think as women we should be able to be honest the same with other things and LOL I would of told people my vagina was on fire! although – I still feel a little cringy when a male nurse walks in when you expect a lady! and…. how weird do Vaginas look I remember asking my Gyno if mine was normal..as felt it looked weird!
I have been very lucky to have not had too many people around who discouraged frank talk when necessary, or use of medical terms. I think that makes a big difference; anyone who can successfully become unembarassed about it will be helping those around them do the same.
I find it uncomfortable but it wouldn’t stop me discussing it if I had a reason to need to.
Not at all, it’s a completely natural thing and I think everyone should be encouraged to be more open.
I can find it uncomfortable talking about things like this, I think it’s because the subject is still seen as quite a ‘taboo’ one. I think more education about things like this both in schools and workplaces would really help
A medical blog where a doctor could answer medical queries and you could see common answers.
I used to be but I’m not anymore. I think its an important topic to discuss and being open to discuss it will show younger generations that it’s not a subject to be embarrassed about.
I am a bit, I think because we’re taught from a young age that it’s a private thing. I think people need to talk more openly about it.
Depends on the company – if its my bloggy gal pals, I find it easy – not with EVERYONE though!
Yes just because my family don’t really talk about it
It’s traditionally an awkward subject, but one I overcome with light heartedness and humour. Not only does it lighten the mood, it relaxes you both and removes a psychological barrier to discussion. Result!
I have some very good female friends and we discuss even the most personal health concerns – itchy vaginas, smear tests, coils – nothing is too intimate. It really helps us all and makes us feel normal.
honestly I don’t have a problem with it, we’re all humans, it’s natural.
For me its just natural and need to get to with it 🙂
Yes I find it a very difficult topic to discuss, I not sure what would make it better.
Im one of 3 sisters and have 6 children myself so nothing is sacred!!
I’m used to it now especially after two children!
As I have got older, I have found it easier talking to friends about feminine health
Not difficult to talk about but just a bit awkward I guess, to find the right time to do it.
Before I became a Mum then yes it was difficult but now it’s part of my everyday conversation. Giving birth in front of an audience changes that perspective!
not at all, we all go through it x
Be straight to the point, no messing
becoming a mum isn’t easy you dont get a book !
No, it’s something we’ve all experienced at some point
i have no embaressment talking about fannies lol we rarely say vagina though – I’m a younger sister by 12 and 9 years, was present at the birth of my niece age 9,a nd have gyno probs that mean I am 6 monthly smear recalls and once yearly internal scans plus ultraounds added to that both my parents are nurses and my gran was a midwife lol so we talk about it quite often infact as disgusting as it sounds my sister used to keep me in fits of laughter when I was younger by fanny farting on command!
I find it tricky, It’s still a bit of a taboo subject xx
It is difficult but if I had a book with all the info I would find it easier as I would have an answer to advise any ladies queries.
I used to find it difficult but after giving birth to my daughter I don’t.
I do find it difficult. I think we are taught from a really early age that ladies bits are not to be talked about but hopefully campaigns like this will change things
It depends who I’m with & in what context. I always feel uncomfortable talking about it in a serious setting (e.g. at doctors) but girls night in & half a bottle of pinot & I’m much more comfortable
After three rounds of IVF and lots of investigations, I am used to people ‘rummaging’ about. However, I still ‘clam up’ during smear tests, despite trying to relax and knowing it is more likely to hurt. It is not something I ever discussed with Mum. I think that everyone talking more openly will make things easier, and blogs like these are brilliant for getting the ball rolling!
I am not shy to talk about it especially with my mum and sister. Also with healthcare professionals….they have seen it all before.
I don’t but my mum does, this subject was recently raised and I think if there was more awareness, so it wasn’t such a taboo subject like statistics etc I thin people would find it easier to discuss.
“Leave your modesty at the door”
I heard this a lot during pregnancy. And when things really get going it feels like everyone and their dog are having turns at poking and prodding up there….
By the time I left hospital my vagina (and every other topic that had previously been embarrassing was open to public discussion….and I had stopped caring! Haha
I don’t have a problem discussing women’s health issues at all.
Never had a problem talking to daughters or friends!
Not at all…..I can talk about it with anybody no problem
I use to find it quite difficult, until I had my son!
.
I don’t really, but I am medical!
I suppose it can be a bit uncomfortable to talk about but like most things education about these things make them easier to talk about
I ‘m personally not embarressed to discuss vaginas health etc – I think it’s thinking about them as just another body part makes it seem not a big deal also think referring to issues relating to it with not the actual name doesnt help using the proper name for body parts demystifys it
I use to find it difficult to talk about but after having 2 children i feel im more open to conversations and dont feel embarssed at all x
I don’t have any issues discussing the subject with other women as I feel we all go through the same things and they understand.
yes I did
Yes, though having a daughter makes it easier
Yes, I do find it difficult to discuss about this topic, as I am a very reserved person. What would make it easier? Dicussing this topic with really close friends
I am not bothered about talking about the subject (i was when I was younger) but after having 2 children I don’t think anything can embarrass you! Ha 🙂
We don’t have an issue talking about this kind of stuff in our house, we’re all human and all our bodies do weird and wonderful stuff!
no i have no issue talking about it,i think people should be a bit more open with things instead of bottling it all up
I’m fine talking about stuff like this. I think a combination of my Mum and my friends as a teenager who were all relaxed and open about bits and bobs it made me like that too. I’m probably too relaxed about it and sometimes have to remind myself others arent so open!
I’m fairly comfortable talking about intimate health, it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Working in a hospital environment you often find yourself discussing all sorts of things over lunch!!
I am very comfortable talking about anything
After 3 children I don’t
I’m not too bad talking about it – depends who to
I think after having children any embarrassment disappears. x
I have also become a lot less embarrassed since having children. Although I still prefer chatting to someone who I am not likely to see again.
Yes i do. Be easier if doctors – especially male ones ask you about it rather than waiting for u to bring it up
I don’t find feminine hygiene a hard subject to talk about as it’s a fact of life and something all females experience. It’s a bit embarrassing if you have to go to the doctors but you just have to hold your head up high and be confident it’s probably nothing they haven’t dealt with before lol
Having suffered with feminine health problems most of my adult life I don’t have any issue talking about it! As for tips for others, we are all human and at some point in our lives the majority of us have had health issues in that department, so don’t be shy!
It is difficult, but we all have the same problems, we just need to come out
I used to find it a difficult topic to talk about, but since having three miscarriages, but thankfully now pregnant with my first baby its easier now as I have been poked and prodded about down there by everyone. So I dont feel embarressed anymore – that has gone out the window!
Yes I do find it slightly uncomfortable to talk about but I do think it gets much easier as you get older
It does depend on who I am talking to. However It is much easier to talk to friends as I have got older and had children.
Yes I do find it difficult, probably because it wasn’t discussed when I was young
I used not to talk about it as my mother never did, but then I’ve had 9 children so it has come up in conversation quite a lot down the years with various health professionals and giving birth so I don’t really mind these days. I’ve also noticed that other mothers are much more able to talk about intimate things after having children too!
I don’t find it difficult to talk about these things since having my children
i am comfortable to discuss these matters with certain people i think being an open and approachable person helps i have always told people i am there no matter what they need and in case my daughter and sons were to shy to approach us on any subject i bought them a book which my mother also bought me it was called the facts of life and is illustrated very well in a sort of cartoonish way but very detailed so i told them if ever you need something but dont want to ask mummy or daddy then just look in the book
freshbrook
It does not bother me at all
I do yes, but it depends on the person and how comfortable I am with them.
i think once u have had a baby all dignity goes out the window so nothing matters anymore!!!
Fab prize Thank you for the chance to win
I have no issues discussing it with friends. I had a few “down there” problems which resulted in an operation so it wasn’t a option to be honest. Oh and a mother that discusses it with her best friend who isn’t shy at asking the “ins and outs” (literally) of personal health.
It is a difficult topic to approach and bring up but so important to do so if you’re worried about something- however difficult it shouldn’t stop you opening up.
I think younger women tend to feel uncomfortable talking about their lady parts but the older you get the more open you become. Having children also definitely makes you relaxed, it’s hard to feel embarrassed when some women is sat stitching you up after labour as your having a cup of tea and a ham sandwich ?
I don’t have any issues with any audience. I have worked in supportive roles with teenage parents and women leaving prison and these topics need to be discussed. It’s part of a females anatomy same as any other part it has a function and needs to be looked after…
I don’t shout about it as you always worry about it embarrassing the other party
Totally not bothered about discussing these things. It’s all part of life!
after 3 children it doesnt come a problem
Im not shy when talking we are all human
Not something I like talking about.
Its just another body part to me, if it needs discussing it needs discussing.
I’m a biology teacher…. so no… it’s kindof my day job to talk about these things with a straight face, it’s only biology after all 🙂
It’s not come up yet? Im sure I would discuss it though.
It does depend on who I am talking to. However It is much easier to talk to friends as I have got older xx
Yes I find it hugely embarrassing to talk about! I guess because they are our ‘private parts’ it feels socially inappropriate to talk about them. I’d rather look something up on the internet than talk about it!
I am much more comfortable now than when I was younger, I think because issues down below were always referred to as feminine hygiene issues or bacterial infections it made me feel like it was caused by being unclean which was in fact the total opposite
I would have definitely been embarrassed talking about this topic before I gave birth, I was always shy when it comes to this subject and never really had a reason to open up or even discuss it for that matter but after giving birth I found i was so much more comfortable and it feels so much better, I’m really questioning why I found it uncomfortable because it is nothing to be ashamed of! Im 30 weeks pregnant and this topic has been bought up on many occasions due to complications and it makes me so much more confident letting it out and discussing the matter. This is a great post, so comforting to read the post and comments!