Tag: #womenshealth

Another New Downplayed Normal

It seems like just yesterday, I was a carefree and semi-balanced woman, living life without a care in the world. But now, as I navigate the treacherous journey of this next transition in life early, my emotions are sent on a rollercoaster ride like never before. Mood swings, tantrums, and tears have become my new companions. It’s been a little while, have a seat. Let me share with you my experience this far.

First, let me emphasize that these mood swings are no laughing matter. They can be incredibly unsettling and confusing, not just for me but also for those around me. It is crucial to acknowledge that these emotional fluctuations are not a reflection of my true character or intentions, but rather a result of the hormonal imbalances unleashed by this unwelcome change in my life.

One moment I may find myself overwhelmed with joy, feeling on top of the world, appreciating every small victory or cherished moment. But then, out of nowhere, a cloud of melancholy descends, casting a shadow over everything I hold dear. I can go from smiling and laughing to crying inconsolably in a matter of minutes, leaving those close to me bewildered, confused and frustrated.

What exacerbates these mood swings is the unpredictability. Despite the fact that I am unable to predict my emotional response to any given situation, I sometimes withdraw from social interactions or isolate myself in an attempt to spare others from my swirling emotions. It can be an isolating experience, and often I feel like I’m watching myself from afar, wondering if I will ever regain control. This is truly an out of body experience.

On top of the erratic emotional shifts, this transition also brings physical discomfort and sleep disturbances, which act like fuel to the fiery emotional rollercoaster. The lack of quality sleep can further intensify my mood swings, leaving me irritable and easily frustrated during the day. Simple tasks that were once manageable suddenly become insurmountable challenges, and I find myself snapping at those around me when they offer their help or make well-intentioned suggestions.

Through it all, I find myself desperately seeking solace and understanding. I want those around me to recognize that these symptoms are not deliberate acts of provocation or manipulation; they are a side effect of the monumental transition my body is going through. I crave empathy, patience, and compassion from those that I love during this trying time.

Even though menopause is a temporary phase, I am currently struggling to envision myself on the other side. So, if you encounter a woman going through menopause, please remember the turbulence she may be experiencing. Be a pillar of support, offer a listening ear without judgment, and understand that what she is going through is merely a temporary storm in an otherwise vibrant an woman’s life.

Post Enucleation Thoughts

The day started early and was full of anxiety. Time had flown by and it was surgery day already. I wanted to treat today like a work meeting during one of my endometriosis flare ups. I could join surgery from my bed with my camera off or reschedule it all together. The twinge of pain in my abdomen quickly reminded me why I needed to have this surgery. It is something that I have avoided in order to take care of everyone and everything else until the pain and problems began to cause a decline in my quality of life.

These procedures were both emotionally and physically taxing. Throw in some pain medication and I have declared myself temporarily decrepit. Women truly face unique challenges within the healthcare system, enduring inadequate care, dismissive attitudes and gender biases. I feel that it is imperative to shed light on this unsettling reality and advocate for the betterment of all women’s health.

It is very unfortunate that women are frequently faced with dismissive attitudes from healthcare professionals (medical providers, nurses, lab and ultrasound technicians, etc.) when it comes to our concerns. Many women have experienced a lack of empathy or belief from medical staff, leading to delayed diagnoses, untreated conditions, and unnecessary suffering. Our health concerns should never be undermined or trivialized, as women experiences and symptoms are valid and deserving of the utmost attention.

Women’s pain is often underestimated and incorrectly documented leading to inadequate pain management. Moreover, some medical conditions predominantly affecting women, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), have historically received disproportionately less attention and research funding compared to other illnesses. This disparity perpetuates the neglect of women’s health concerns.

While reproductive health is an integral part of our overall well-being, it is often treated as an afterthought. Access to reproductive healthcare, including safe and legal abortions, contraception, and fertility treatments, is a fundamental right! However, we frequently face barriers such as limited access, affordability issues, and judgments based on personal beliefs or societal taboos. These obstacles prevent women from making well-informed decisions about their bodies, reproductive health, and planned parenthood. In addition to reproductive health, women of color specifically face racial disparities and a lack of trust in their concerns during pregnancy and childbirth. These inequalities further emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive and unbiased women’s healthcare.


Conditions like anxiety, postpartum depression, and PTSD are brushed off or dismissed as hormonal changes or exaggerated emotions. This lack of understanding and empathy perpetuates the underdiagnosis, under treatment, and unnecessary suffering of women dealing with health struggles. Addressing these issues is vital to ensure that we receive the care and support we deserve. By promoting gender equality, raising awareness, and empowering women to advocate for themselves, we can work toward creating a healthcare system that prioritizes women’s health, respect, and dignity. It is high time we write a new narrative – one that ensures equal treatment for all within the healthcare realm all over the World.