So, apparently Irish women are too embarrassed to talk to their doctor about THRUSH

It seems us Irish ladies are a little on the quiet side when it comes to having the chats about periods, vaginas and other intimate issues down below, and it's time to change things. 

In fact, it’s become so bad that 69 percent of us feel embarrassed to varying degrees about discussing intimate health with our GP or pharmacist.

You know the one person who has quite literally seen it all.

Literally.

But that’s not even the saddest thing; 18 percent of women who participated in the survey by Bayer Consumer Health would be embarrassed if a close friend or sister discussed their intimate health with them.

Come on, ladies.

We’ve all got the same stuff down there – and no matter what anyone else says, we’re ALL going through the same thing. Seriously.

Thankfully, the embarrassment of purchasing tampons or sanitary towels has gone down, but 45 percent of women say they feel embarrassed purchasing OTC treatments.

 And the worst part? 

One-third of women “tend to self-diagnose using Google”, while others wait until symptoms disappear when experiencing intimate health problems.

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.

It is evident from the survey that a change in attitude and behavior is needed when it comes to these issues – and it's time to do something.

Speaking about the survey results, Pharmacist and campaign spokesperson, Maria Oxley Boardman said: “Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and thrush are two common conditions affecting women’s intimate health.

"BV affects approximately 57 percent of women, is caused by an imbalance of the bacteria in the vagina and is best treated through an over the counter treatment.

"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.”

So ladies, let's start talking about the vajayjay, the hooha or, you know, the vagina – because something small can turn into something much bigger if let untreated. 

In fact, 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 pre-term pregnancy.

For more information, check out www.intimatehealth.ie.