#Women's Health Advocacy

[glitchdollmemoria]

please can we stop describing bigots as delusional. please. im so fucking tired. someone being sucked into a hate group surrounded by others who believe minorities should be oppressed and encouraging them to believe in conspiracy theories that the rest of the group believes, is fundamentally different from someone having a mental illness that causes delusions.

delusions, by definition, cannot be explained by things like cultural background - such as having a belief constantly reinforced by intentional attempts to rationalize it for the sake of maintaining power over minorities. yes, someone can be both delusional and a bigot, and yes conspiracy theories can feed into delusions, but the two are not fucking synonymous.

i did not spend my teen years convinced that i was being stalked by demons just to hear so many of you people equate my disability with incel behavior and genocidal propaganda. stop reinforcing harmful connotations about mental health struggles.

[ivygorgon]

[girltalkcollectives]

👩‍⚕️ Medical Gaslighting: When "It's All in Your Head" Isn't Just in Your Head

Let's talk about something that's been making my blood boil lately: the way women are treated in doctors' offices. You know that feeling when you KNOW something's wrong with your body, but the doctor dismisses it as "just anxiety" or "probably stress"? Yeah, we need to discuss this.

The Numbers That Make Me Angry

Here's what research shows:

Women wait 16 minutes longer than men in emergency rooms

Women are 7 times more likely to be misdiagnosed during a heart attack

Women wait an average of 4 years longer for autoimmune disease diagnoses

Women are prescribed less pain medication for the same conditions

Women's pain is more likely to be labeled as "emotional" or "psychosomatic"

The Common Dismissals We Hear

Sound familiar?

"It's just anxiety"

"Try losing weight"

"It's all in your head"

"This is normal for women"

"Maybe you're just stressed"

"Have you tried yoga?"

"It's probably just hormones"

The Real Impact

This dismissal leads to:

Delayed diagnoses

Worsening conditions

Mental health strain

Lost trust in healthcare

Financial burden from seeking multiple opinions

Chronic conditions going untreated

Women doubting their own bodies

My Personal Experience

[Sharing because we need to normalize these conversations]

I spent years being told my debilitating period cramps were "just part of being a woman" and that I should "take some ibuprofen and use a heating pad." I was missing school, dealing with intense mood swings, struggling with unpredictable cycles, and experiencing cramps so bad I'd be crying. But every doctor just said I had a "low pain tolerance."

Turns out I had a hormonal imbalance that could have been diagnosed and treated years earlier if someone had just listened and run some basic tests. A simple blood test revealed my hormones were completely out of whack - something that could have been treated way sooner. Instead, I suffered through years of unnecessary pain because "bad periods are normal." Spoiler alert: pain that makes you miss school and ball your eyes out for the length of your cycle isn't normal, and we need to stop pretending it is.

What We're Actually Dealing With

Common scenarios:

Being prescribed antidepressants for physical symptoms

Having pain dismissed as "normal period cramps"

Being told to lose weight before receiving actual treatment

Having symptoms blamed on stress before running tests

Being labeled as "dramatic" for advocating for ourselves

Getting different treatment when bringing a male advocate

The Historical Context

This isn't new:

"Hysteria" was once a common diagnosis for women

Medical research historically excluded women

Many medications were only tested on men

Women's pain has been historically undermined

Medical textbooks were written based on male bodies

How to Advocate for Yourself

Practical steps:

Document Everything

Keep symptom diaries

Track dates and times

Record impact on daily life

Take photos if applicable

Save medical records

2. Prepare for Appointments

Write down all symptoms

Bring supporting documentation

List all questions

Bring an advocate if possible

Record appointments (with permission)

3. Use Strong Language

"I need this documented in my chart"

"What else could this be?"

"What tests can we run?"

"I need you to explain why you're dismissing this"

"I want a second opinion"

The Power of Community

We can support each other by:

Sharing recommendations for good doctors

Validating each other's experiences

Sharing resources and research

Supporting each other at appointments

Speaking up about medical gaslighting

Red Flags to Watch For

Be wary when a doctor:

Dismisses symptoms without examination

Blames everything on weight/stress/anxiety

Refuses to run tests

Interrupts or talks over you

Makes you feel crazy for your concerns

Dismisses your pain

Ignores your medical history

What Good Healthcare Looks Like

You deserve a doctor who:

Listens without interrupting

Takes your concerns seriously

Runs appropriate tests

Explains their reasoning

Treats you as an expert of your body

Works with you as a partner

Admits when they don't know something

Moving Forward

We need to:

Share our stories

Support each other

Demand better care

Report discrimination

Write reviews warning others

Celebrate good doctors

Keep fighting for change

To Every Woman Fighting This Battle

Remember:

You know your body best

Your pain is real

You deserve to be heard

Don't stop advocating

It's okay to switch doctors

You're not "too sensitive"

Your health matters

[eeveeas123]

😰😰😰

Okay, people who are autistic like me can most definitely have meltdowns from noises and other sensory things. I used to hate wearing certain clothes but the no-list of clothing is getting smaller, maybe I’m slowly learning to deal with it? I don’t know. But sometimes, no matter how long you’ve lived, no matter how many times it’s happened, you get triggered by a sensory issue that makes you want to cry, run away or even be destructive. I’m not saying what my most major, specific one is because I can’t even type/say the word, it’s that bad for me! Some non-autistic people think that exposure to these things will almost certainly help us deal with them better. It likely won’t, because it’s like torture for us to endure. When we’re constantly being told it’s “No big deal” by anyone, they’re wrong! It’s deeply upsetting to us! We’ll probably start to feel unsafe because people keep trying to make us face our worst fears without even realizing that it’s cruel. Making us go to crowded places to cure crowd anxiety for example, is stupid because we don’t get stronger by being in unsafe spaces. With compassion and support, things might be different, not ignoring our needs to “Toughen us up”. Imagine, being tortured by a recurring thing that makes you feel huge emotional, physical and mental pain, nobody cares and they force you to “Move on” when really you’re trying not to hurt yourself or destroy something right then! Yeah, I think you’d feel unsafe too😰

[calvincell]

I genuinely think it’s absolutely vile how antichoice conservatives have pushed the deluded notion that being pregnant is some simple feat in order to frame abortion as just some sick hobby liberals do for fun. Pregnancy is an absolutely taxing ordeal even with zero complications. It comes with months of insane hormone alterations, perpetual bouts of nausea & outright vomiting, significant fatigue, a complete restructuring of one’s body and all of that is before even getting to the act of birth which throughout the entirety of human history has been explicitly understood as amongst the most painful natural physical events a human can experience/endure such that killing the pain chemically is almost a default requirement during it. Yet republicans really want to pretend that there are people who endure such an intense emotional & physical process, a process that a medically compromised patient could potentially die from (and explicitly have died from considering dying during childbirth is an outcome that still happens in the modern world), all so they can supposedly get of on “killing infants”. That’s without even going into how an abortion isn’t some fun activity. It is a medical procedure at the end of the day which is also insanely invasive and financially taxing. Ignoring that to frame abortion as something people do on a lark is like claiming that there’s an epidemic of people deliberately shattering the bones of their arm just so they get to enjoy the experience of getting it surgically repaired. It’s absolute nonsense.

The right wing narrative that abortion advocates want to “commit infanticide/post-birth abortion” is one that is also extremely harmful and dangerous & doesn’t get pushed back on nearly enough and requires erasing the very concept of miscarriages & birth defects to demonize the abortion process. There is literally no end to the stories of infants who are born and yet due to a multitude of possible defects may only live for a few hours to days of abject pain & suffering before dying. Choosing to spare an infant from such a fate before or after birth isn’t something people treat lightly. The parents and families who make that decision don’t do it on a whim because it’s a heavily traumatizing situation to live through. But of course conservatives have to ignore those explicit medical realities because they get in the way of their bs conspiratorial narratives of patients, nurses & doctors all sitting around cackling evily at ultrasounds and/or newborns in the neonatal ward eager to slaughter them for entertainment or ritual sacrifices I guess; because of course antichoice conservatives don’t actually have a reasoned & rational argument for what they believe abortion seekers & medical providers gain from abortion access outside the already established & frequently expressed facts that: people get to choose if and/or when they want to be parents with the resources & stability to support a child, avoid severe (potentially fatal) medical issues during pregnancy or birth for the patient & fetus alike, and erase the permanent traumatic consequences of sexual assault.

[karl-says]

Hello comrades! I just wanted to let you all know that I'll be on vacation for the next week, so I'll be a bit absent from posting. I apologize for my absences.

It's important to take breaks and recharge, yet many Americans don't take vacations due to time or budget constraints; which we also all know many countries offer mandatory days for such things. So let's remember the value of rest and advocate for policies that ensure everyone has the opportunity to take time off to relax and enjoy life. After all work shouldn't be your life.

See you all in a week! Stay strong and keep the conversation alive. In solidarity, Karl.

[cultivating-wildflowers]

💭

[adityamantri]

Cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide and  can affect women of all ages. However, it is most often diagnosed in women between  35 and years of age.

 Causes of cervical cancer:

 The main cause of cervical cancer is infection with  human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus. There are more than 100 different types of HPV, and some types can cause cervical cancer. Other factors that can increase the risk of  cervical cancer include smoking,  a weakened immune system,  a family history of cervical cancer, and  multiple sexual partners. 

 Symptoms of cervical cancer:

 Cervical cancer does not necessarily cause symptoms in its early stages. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain or discomfort, pain during intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge. It is important to note that these symptoms can be caused by other diseases, so it is important to consult a doctor to get a proper diagnosis. 

 Prevention and early detection of cervical cancer:

 The most effective way to prevent cervical cancer is  the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that cause most cases of cervical cancer, as well as against other types of HPV that can cause other types of cancer. The vaccine is recommended for  males and females between  9 and 26 years of age.

 Regular cervical cancer screening is also important for early detection. A Pap test is a test that checks for abnormal cells on the cervix. It is recommended that women start regular Pap tests from the age of 21. In addition, the new  HPV test can also detect the presence of the virus that causes cervical cancer. Women should discuss with their healthcare provider which exams are right for them. 

 Treatment of cervical cancer:

 Treatment of cervical cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and other factors such as the woman's age and general health. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments.

  In summary, cervical cancer is a common female cancer  that can be prevented by vaccination and detected early by regular screening. Women should consult with their health care provider to determine  appropriate screening and vaccination. If cervical cancer is diagnosed, early treatment can lead to a better outcome.

For more information Visit: www.oncorelief.in

[pebblegalaxy]

Understanding and Combating Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) #FGM #FemaleGenitalMutilation

Female genital mutilation (FGM), also known as female genital cutting, is a harmful and destructive practice that involves the partial or complete removal of a woman’s external genitalia. It is a violation of human rights and has serious physical, psychological, and social consequences. FGM is most commonly practiced in African and Middle Eastern countries, but it also occurs in other parts of…

[hangingfire]

A couple of years back I had a hysterectomy, my last-ditch assault on years of chronic pain and health issues caused by endometriosis. (It worked, luckily.)

I'll never forget my doctor telling me to actually say something about my pain levels post-surgery, and that I was not actually required to tough it out the way I'd been doing for years. She looked at me very directly and said, “Now I know you have a VERY high pain tolerance, but you really need to let us know if you’re having difficulties, okay?” And even with that lecture, I stuck out a raging headache and ferocious back pain for way too long before finally asking the nurse for the Good Pain Meds so I could sleep. I still power through headaches for far longer than most people deem acceptable. 

...Since I originally drafted this post, I also had gallbladder surgery after, you guessed it, spending eighteen months powering through discomfort and a few crying-on-the-floor-in-agony attacks. When I went in for my surgery consult, I described my symptoms to the surgeon and he asked how long the episodes of post-meal discomfort (to wit, nausea and achiness and general malaise, not the severe pain bits) lasted.

"Oh not that long," I said. "Maybe a day."

He gave me a hairy eyeball and said, "A day is kind of a long time."

"Look," I said, "I had endometriosis for years, and a day of discomfort just doesn't seem that long."

Clearly I have learned absolutely nothing.

Oh look, it's me.

More people need to understand this. My hips & knees are in constant stabbing pain. Unless I physically cannot put weight on them, I will still be doing stuff because life continues & shit needs to get done.

Actually, realistically, even if my leg won't bear weight, I find a way around it to get shit done.

This is part of why I think most pain scales are absurd. I found one at my pain management office that doesn't base the rating on physical activity, but on how much it invades your thoughts. They understand that I (and a lot of chronic pain patients) can physically function with high pain levels because we have to.

So the question for the scale becomes, is the pain just background noise? Does it intrude into active thoughts? Is the intrusion only when you do certain stuff, at random times, or constantly? Is it making it harder to focus than normal? Making it a bit tough to articulate in conversations? Is it overwhelming all other thoughts?

These are the types of questions that should be asked when dealing with a chronic pain patient in any setting. Doctors, nurses, and emergency room staff should be taught this & adjust their line of questioning if dealing with a patient who has a chronic pain condition.

Additionally, it should be specified as to if they are questioning a specific or new pain or if they are questioning overall day to day pain. If I go into my doctor with a migraine, obviously my answers will be specifically about the migraine. When I go to my monthly pain appointment, we are talking about my condition over the last month and then specifically my condition that day.

When you have sustained high levels of pain, you develop coping skills to deal with it because it's unacceptable to just lay down crying all the time. This is also poorly understood.

Example: I went to the ER because I had suspected that a fall had resulted in some sort of fracture or tear in my hip. It was more swollen than a fall usually caused, was discolored, & while I could put a bit of weight on it while heavily leaning on my cane, doing so for more than 5 minutes made me vomit. I was told that wasn't possible because if it was broken at all or even slightly out of place, I'd be sobbing & not putting any weight on it. I reminded them that I have vEDS with very unstable hips & that I'd broken every bone in the top of my foot multiple times without even knowing until I came in because of swelling, walking on it for a day or two beforehand. They looked skeptical. So I slid my other hip & my shoulder out of socket, ever so slightly but still noticeably. They still looked skeptical but said they'd do xrays.

Later a different nurse came in & asked how I managed a small hip fracture at my age. She remarked upon how well I handled the pain & asked if I had a chronic issue. I explained & she nodded, saying "yep. That'll do it."

We need more education about chronic pain. The impact it has on our bodies, our ability to cope, our ability to function, and our cognitive health/function. More studies need to be done about the short term and long term impact. Because having been in some level of pain for as long as I can remember, I assure you that there certainly is an impact. (RIP my photographic memory)

[wesurviveabuse]

Women bring unique perspectives, lived experiences, and a relentless drive for change—qualities vital for tackling the pressing issues facing women’s health today. Tune in to hear why amplifying everyday women's voices is not just essential for progress—it’s imperative for lasting, meaningful change. In this episode, we shine a light on the vital role of everyday women in female-led health advocacy and a few of the many ways that our healthcare differs from male healthcare. Women from all walks of life are stepping up, sharing their stories, and driving change in the healthcare landscape. Our hope is that this episode adds fuel to your fire. 

[folkwhore1998]

We can get so caught up in the cold weather and changing leaves, which are some of life's greatest pleasures. But let us not forget that October is breast cancer awareness month.

Cancer in general is something that can take over your entire life. You don't even have to be the one who is fighting the battle. When someone you love is diagnosed with cancer, your life changes.

They say that addiction is something called a family disease. This phrase does not mean that addiction runs in the family, but it means it is a disease that can influence and impact all of the inner workings of family dynamics. The same can be said about breast cancer.

Of course, you can see the lows that come with cancer, but you can also see the strength and resilience that comes with being a being a fighter and survivor. Being of support to those battling breast cancer likely means more to them than you realize. Send them the dinners, the door dash gift cards, hire someone to come clean their home, put together a self care basket, etc. These are some ways we can help cancer warriors. Most importantly, tell them you love them!

I want to emphasize the importance of understanding the basics of breast cancer! I am not a doctor, but I am an advocate.

Did you know that 49% of women without insurance went into care with no coverage or delayed getting care? That is nearly half of women with a breast cancer diagnosis. And that does not even include men who have had a breast cancer diagnosis. (Yes, men can get breast cancer too)

INSURANCE IS A BASIC NECESSITY. WE ALL DESERVE ACCESS TO LIFE SAVING CARE. EARLY INTERVENTION IS LIVE SAVING.

I'll say it once, and I'll say it again: I would rather pay a little bit more in taxes if that means every woman, man, and child has access to health care.

We deserve access to quality health care, but also EQUITABLE health care. Breast cancer death rates are 40% higher for woman of color. We cannot continue to let black women and POC to fall through the broken cracks of our healthcare system.

***If you know a doctor that actually listens to you, tell everyone about them. I'm serious- you never know who's life this can save, given medical professionals do not take women seriously.***

Some things we can do to try and prevent breast cancer:

-Limit alcohol intake

-Avoid smoking

-Exercise regularly

-Drink more water and balanced diet

(All of these things are the things doctors throw at you when something is wrong, but won't take you seriously. Please do not take this is the solution, but please understand this has the potential to prevent breast cancer, and really any kind of cancer)

-Learn your family's history. If you can't find information about your family history, genetic testing can help here. (I'm going to link info down below)

-Get your mammogram screenings regularly (They say this should start in your 40's. If you have a family history, try to start by age 30.)

If you or someone you know needs assistance in finding resources to help access things like mammograms or genetic testing, please use this search engine below. By inputting your zip code, 211.org will give you numerous resources that can help. You can use this for anything- food, clothing, shelter, mental health care, etc.

Here is some information on where to find breast cancer support groups:

SELF EXAMS!!!

I've heard many stories on how self-exams have saved lives:

I can sit here and talk about how cancer can impact families (because that is something I have experienced), but I want to highlight stories from breast cancer survivors/ those battling breast cancer.

Here are the links to donation platforms. If you can donate, please do. Every dollar counts as we fight for a cure:

I know that cancer can make us feel helpless. It is hard and uncomfortable to know how to help those struggling. It is okay and normal to feel this way and you are not alone. Here is some information on how you can help cancer fighters:

Check out @bringyourbrave for more information.

[k12academics]

Experience a blend of meaningful volunteer work and thrilling adventure in Uganda. Contribute to local projects, immerse yourself in vibrant culture, and enjoy activities like zip-lining, safaris, and hikes. Gain new skills and perspectives while making a positive impact, with full support and guidance from our team throughout your journey.

[eeveeas123]

All The Conditions I Have (Feel free to ask questions)

❤️‍🩹Asthma

❤️‍🩹Autism

❤️‍🩹ADHD

❤️‍🩹Anxiety

❤️‍🩹Irregular & painful periods

❤️‍🩹Bug allergies

❤️‍🩹Fine motor skill issues

Conditions I Might Have (Not diagnosed)

❓PCOS

❓Fibroids

❓OCD

❓Overeating (It might be just how I need to eat)

❓Depression

[psychebubbles-anwesha]

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