Tag: #vulva

WE DON’T TALK ABOUT THIS AREA…

karenringalls4 Comments

We don’t talk about the vulva…the forbidden area. Today’s discussion might make some of the readers uncomfortable, embarrassed, or giggly. However, it is an important area that is too often ignored.

As far back as 3000 BC, statues show the male penis, but not the female labia. The same is true in ancient Greek and Roman times.

What is it? Where is it?

  • The vulva is the outer part of the female genitalia
  • Part of the female reproductive system
  • It includes the labia majora, labia minora, and the clitoris.

Cancer of the Vulva

  • Most of them are squamous cell carcinomas, which is more commonly seen in older women.
  • Adenocarcinomas most often start in the cells of the Bartholin glands, which are at the opening of the vagina.
  • Other cancer types found in the vulvar region are melanoma, sarcoma, and basal cell carcinoma.

The message is: do not ignore this important area of the body.

  • Once a month, take a mirror and check the skin for any redness, swelling, or rashes.
  • Avoid HPV infection
  • Condom use reduces the risk of HPV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
  • Get the HPV vaccine.
  • Do not smoke.
  • Get regular pelvic exams

The female body was designed as a source of pleasure, fertility, movement, strength, and well-being. (Christine Northrup)

SEPTEMBER: WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

karenringalls5 Comments

The main reason: It’s NATIONAL GYNECOLOGIC CANCER MONTH! Each day I will share two things: a photo from that day’s walk and an important fact.

Teal Takeover is our local campaign to raise funds for research and awareness. I invite you to walk or run a 5K with me. Join my team, make a donation, and let’s go! My team is called the Outshiners, because we are going to outshine any challenge we face, even cancer. Here is my link: https://www.classy.org/team/446017.

Today, I am officially starting my walk…and it will be a mile each day. At 81, I am proud to be able to walk that far!!! A beautiful sunrise to start my day.

The more you know about gynecologic cancers, the better! Day 1 facts:

  • Vaginal, Cervical, Uterine (Endometrial), Ovarian, and Vulvar are the 5 major types.
  • Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD), Primary Peritoneal Cancer, and Fallopian are three rare types.

Join me each day as we learn about gynecologic cancers and the reproductive system. Be a part of my team!