Leonie’s Story: NOT just “That time of the month”

I have been to many doctor's appointments where male physicians seem to quickly dismiss our stomach pain and tell us that "it's just our time of the month."

Women know their bodies, and we most definitely considered that before waiting weeks for an appointment, so for doctors to dismiss our experience and send us home with some medicine for cramps is invalidating and discouraging!

Even though men may not experience menstrual cycles personally, it is important for everyone to fully understand the changes and experiences women go through. Healthcare providers and educators have a vital role in preparing the next generation for success, which includes engaging in these necessary yet challenging conversations about our bodies, relevant for both men and women. This includes providing comprehensive and accurate education from a young age to prevent misinformation and manage conditions effectively. For example, sex education for young women is often lacking, with educators sometimes viewing it as a burdensome task rather than a vital conversation.

Sometimes there is stigma surrounding women's health topics in more traditional cultures. We need more concerted efforts to promote awareness and open discussion. In many Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, there's often a strong emphasis on purity culture, leading to silence and avoidance of topics like dating, sex, abortions, and contraceptives. The strict and uncomfortable conversations that parents in these cultures avoid can create barriers within families, making it difficult for their children to navigate normal life experiences. By prioritizing and reinforcing discussions around these topics, we can help break down the stigma and ensure that everyone has access to the information and support they need for their health and well-being. We need to ensure access to healthcare services such as affordable contraceptives and abortions. Reducing the stigma surrounding these topics in certain cultures is essential to ensuring that women worldwide have the support, information, and resources necessary to make informed decisions about themselves and their loved ones.

Women's health means ensuring that every individual has access to the resources they need to address a variety of physical, mental, and social needs specific to women.