Survey reveals one in four Irish women have a pet name for their intimate area
Almost two thirds of women in Ireland are uncomfortable having a conversation about their intimate health with their GP according to a new survey.
The research also found that one third of Irish women self-diagnose using Google, while 13 per cent of those questioned said they “wait until symptoms disappear” when experiencing intimate health problems.
Nearly one in four respondents said they have a pet name for their intimate area, with respondents choosing Vajayjay (22%) and Hooha (16%) as the names most likely to use.
The survey, conducted by Bayer, questioned women about their intimate health and general confidence levels.
Only half of women surveyed would describe themselves as mainly a confident person, with 38 per cent describing themselves as confident “sometimes, but not often”.
The research was done as part of the #BeVConfident campaign, designed to lift the taboo surrounding women’s intimate health, and educate women about common conditions like bacterial vaginosis (BV) and thrush.
According to the researchers, “it is evident from the survey that a change in attitude and behavior is needed when it comes to these issues.
“It’s important that women seek advice from their pharmacist if experiencing any BV symptoms.
“The condition, if untreated, can be a risk during pregnancy, cause infertility and lead to preterm pregnancy.”
Meanwhile, 69 per cent of women feel embarrassed to varying degrees about discussing their intimate health with their GP or pharmacist, and 18% of women surveyed would be embarrassed if a close friend or sister discussed their intimate health with them.
Of those surveyed, 11 per cent of women do not discuss their intimate health with those closest to them at all; friends, siblings, parents or a partner.
Speaking about the survey results, Pharmacist and campaign spokesperson, Maria Oxley Boardman (mPharm), said: “Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and thrush are two common conditions affecting women’s intimate health.
“BV affects approximately 57% of women, is caused by an imbalance of the bacteria in the vagina and is best treated through an over the counter treatment.
“The research shows that the majority of women feel embarrassed talking about intimate health in many situations.
“Women need to be empowered and have the correct information to dispel the myths surrounding intimate health.
“We need to be encourage women to be more confident so they can become more assured in seeking a diagnosis and treating their own intimate health issues.”
For women who are unsure if they have BV or thrush, Canestest is an innovative and reliable self-test allowing women to determine which vaginal infection they are suffering from in just 10 seconds and treat it quickly and effectively.
