Let’s start with a fact that will make you raise an eyebrow (or two): studies show that over 80% of women don’t know all the symptoms of common gynaecological conditions like endometriosis or ovarian cancer. Surprised? Somewhere along the way, talking about “down there” became one big hush-hush subject. Well, not today. Grab a glass of your favourite drink because we’re diving in!

Do you remember the last time you went for a smear test? (Don’t worry, I won’t judge if you’ve been putting it off!) If you’re like most women, it’s one of those things that gets pushed down the to-do list faster than the speed of a pelvic exam. Trust me, I get it. It's awkward, not fun, and the temperature in the room is never right…let alone the speculum!

But ladies not talking about or checking in with your gynaecological health doesn’t mean the issues disappear. Whether it’s the all-too-common fibroids affecting Black women at three times the rate of their white counterparts or something as subtle as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), these conditions thrive in silence. And the scary part? They often whisper, not shout.

There are though some red flags you shouldn’t ignore. If your body’s trying to tell you something, it usually speaks fluently in the language of “weird.”

• Periods heavier than a downpour on a British summer’s day? Take note.
• Constant bloating that makes you look three months pregnant? Get it checked.
• Pain during sex (yes, we’re going there)? That’s not “normal.”

Your gynaecological health matters. If something feels off, trust your gut literally.

Let me tell you about the time I almost ignored a big red flag. Years ago, I had this “off” feeling, random joint pains and fatigue that came out of nowhere. I brushed it off. “It’s probably stress,” I told myself (classic, right?). A routine check-up later, and bam! I was told I had Lupus. Thankfully, I caught it early, but it was a reminder that our bodies don’t lie. Sometimes we just don’t listen. As my late mother always used to say, “If you can’t hear, you must feel”!

And while we’re at it lets bust some of those myths

• “It’s normal to have painful periods.” No, it’s not. Pain isn’t a badge of honour; it’s a signal.
• “I’m past menopause, so I’m in the clear.” Actually, no. Conditions like vaginal atrophy or even cancers can still appear.
• “Only older women need to worry about this stuff.” Think again. Endometriosis can start in your teens, and ovarian cancer doesn’t care about your age.

It’s not all doom and gloom. The more we talk about this stuff, the easier it gets. Women are now taking control, asking the tough questions, advocating for themselves, and ditching the stigma. And with advancements in technology (hello, apps that track ovulation and periods!), staying on top of things has never been easier. Oh, and here’s another reason to smile: cervical cancer screenings have contributed to an 80% reduction in deaths from the disease since the 1980s. That’s the power of prevention.

This isn’t about scaring you; it’s about empowering you. Your body is amazing. It’s been through a lot, whether it’s childbirth, menopause, or just surviving the madness of everyday life. It deserves your attention, love, and care. So, make that appointment, ask the questions, and remember gynaecological health isn’t a taboo topic. It’s part of your health. And you, ladies, deserve to feel your best from head to toe, yes, even “down there.” Now, go out there and own it. Your health, your rules. 

Did You Know? African and Caribbean women are more likely to experience Lupus but we’re also more likely to skip regular check-ups. Let’s change that, one conversation at a time.

Caroline’s daughter, Diahanne xxx