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Join Our Team: We're Looking for Forum Supporters!
by Mya000
Last post
 3 days ago
...See more Hello everyone! We’re thrilled to announce that our Women's Issues Community Forum is on the lookout for Forum Supporters to join our team. If you’re passionate about women’s issues and eager to make a positive impact, this could be the perfect role for you! 🔍 What We’re Looking For: * Preferably Female: While we value all contributions, having female supporters helps ensure our discussions reflect direct lived experiences and viewpoints. * Knowledgeable About Women’s Issues: A strong understanding of discrimination and related topics is crucial to effectively contribute and support our community. Official Requirements for the Role: * Forum Supporter Responsibilities: * Focus on 1 or 2 sub-communities. * Maintain engagement by posting and replying to threads with empathy. * Uphold a record of zero behaviour points. * Active participation in the community prior to application is required. * For Members: * 50+ forum upvotes. * 50+ forum posts. * Make 10+ forum posts per month. * Have taken the Member Oath. * For Listeners: * Verified Listener status. * 50+ forum upvotes. * 50+ forum posts. * Make 10+ forum posts per month. * Have taken the Listener Community Guide & Listener Oath. 🌟 Why This Role Matters: * Informed Discussions: Your contributions will help guide insightful and supportive conversations about women’s issues. * Supportive Space: By fostering a compassionate environment, you’ll help ensure that every member feels heard and supported. If you’re ready to make a positive impact and meet the requirements, click the link below to apply! 👉 Click here to apply! [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefNgW-Va7dyBx67M3d27INmkndnwm1C3Ywa7NJoFa2EscQkA/closedform] Thank you for your dedication and commitment to our cause. We look forward to working with you to make our community a better place for everyone!
Women's Issues Community Taglist! Stay Updated
by SoulfullyAButterfly
Last post
 3 days ago
...See more The Women's Issues Community Tag List is a way to stay connected with new discussions, resources, and posts shared by our forum supporters. By joining the tag list, you’ll receive notifications when important updates are posted (up to 4 times a week). These updates can include everything from wellness tips and discussions to helpful resources that align with the community’s focus on women’s issues. If you'd like to be added or removed from the tag list, simply leave a comment below. Being part of the tag list helps you stay engaged and ensures you don’t miss out on opportunities to connect and share your thoughts! ------------------------- Current taglist - updated by Mya on 17th October @adventurousBranch3786 @ashleybell415 @ASPIRINGCOUNSELOR @Aylathegreat @azuladragon34 @blxepxndx @calmmoon2104 @Callmetanya5 @creativeTalker5179 @DaisyBeeBlooming @daydreammemories @decisivePapaya238 @Eddy94 @emotionalkitty101 @fluffypickles123 @GentleLily3 @gentleWater9634 @GoldenRuleJG @halcyonCloud2036 @HarmonyBlossom @iloveyouxx @Jaeteuk @janiewanie423 @K87 @Kala @KarmaTheRascal @KaylaMaulfair @KindnessMatters2020 @lalabrowni @listenwithempathy @LittleSunshine2036 @littleLemon4973 @LovingPeacefulHeart @MoreThanJustMe @Mya000 @Noorahmed89 @OptimisticMoon1124 @PFord79 @pioneeringShade8010 @purpleTree4652 @RainbowRosie @RobinNew @shyMoon8539 @sincereSkies9563 @SirenOfSerenity @sky2Ocean20 @Smilintru67 @softSummer7903 @SomeHope2022 @SoulfullyAButterfly @tealPark1424 @TheCucumberry @trueconfidant123 @victoriousLily5344 @woMango9097 @zaramerch
The Pressure on Mothers to Breastfeed 🍼
by Mya000
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more Breastfeeding is often presented as the best option for mothers and babies, with societal pressure to exclusively breastfeed overwhelming many new mothers. While there are undeniable benefits to breastfeeding, including reduced risks of infections, allergies, and chronic conditions in infants, as well as maternal health advantages like a decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancers—the physical and emotional toll it can take is rarely discussed. The Challenges of Breastfeeding Breastfeeding can be physically exhausting, with constant feeding sessions and sleepless nights. For many mothers, it leads to severe physical strain, such as nipple pain, mastitis, and milk supply issues. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders, as well as stress and improper latching, can further complicate milk production, leaving mothers physically and emotionally drained.  These issues and the adequate lack of support can lead to feelings of guilt, inadequacy, or failure, especially when faced with the notion that breastfeeding is a moral duty. The Stigma Surrounding Formula Feeding Mothers who choose not to or cannot breastfeed often face judgment from society, family, friends, and even healthcare providers, who may imply that formula feeding is less nurturing. This assumption is not only inaccurate but also unfair. Infant formula is designed to provide complete nutrition, containing essential proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Unlike breast milk, which can vary in composition, formula offers a consistent nutritional profile, making it particularly beneficial for babies with specific dietary needs. The Benefits of Formula Feeding Formula feeding allows mothers to share feeding responsibilities, get more rest, and reduce both physical and emotional strain.  Yet, his aspect is typically overlooked, and the assumption that breastfeeding should be prioritized above all else reflects broader issues of sexism. Society places the expectation on mothers to sacrifice their own health and well-being for the sake of their children, all while failing to provide the necessary resources and support to make caregiving easier. A Call for Comprehensive Support What’s missing from this conversation is the need for a comprehensive support system for all mothers, regardless of their feeding choices. We require policies that ensure access to quality healthcare, affordable childcare options, mental health support, sufficient maternity leave, equality in parenting roles and breastfeeding-friendly spaces. Mothers deserve to feel supported and respected in their motherhood—not judged or pressured. A cultural shift is essential to normalize all feeding methods, rather than elevating one as inherently superior. This can only happen when we dismantle the unrealistic expectations placed on mothers and recognize that feeding choices are deeply personal. We must create a compassionate, non-judgmental environment that embraces the diversity of each mother's experience. Let’s prioritize support, respect and understanding towards all mothers 💛 #SupportAllMothers #NormalizeFeedingChoices
Join Our Team: We're Looking for Forum Supporters!
by Mya000
Last post
 3 days ago
...See more Hello everyone! We’re thrilled to announce that our Women's Issues Community Forum is on the lookout for Forum Supporters to join our team. If you’re passionate about women’s issues and eager to make a positive impact, this could be the perfect role for you! 🔍 What We’re Looking For: * Preferably Female: While we value all contributions, having female supporters helps ensure our discussions reflect direct lived experiences and viewpoints. * Knowledgeable About Women’s Issues: A strong understanding of discrimination and related topics is crucial to effectively contribute and support our community. Official Requirements for the Role: * Forum Supporter Responsibilities: * Focus on 1 or 2 sub-communities. * Maintain engagement by posting and replying to threads with empathy. * Uphold a record of zero behaviour points. * Active participation in the community prior to application is required. * For Members: * 50+ forum upvotes. * 50+ forum posts. * Make 10+ forum posts per month. * Have taken the Member Oath. * For Listeners: * Verified Listener status. * 50+ forum upvotes. * 50+ forum posts. * Make 10+ forum posts per month. * Have taken the Listener Community Guide & Listener Oath. 🌟 Why This Role Matters: * Informed Discussions: Your contributions will help guide insightful and supportive conversations about women’s issues. * Supportive Space: By fostering a compassionate environment, you’ll help ensure that every member feels heard and supported. If you’re ready to make a positive impact and meet the requirements, click the link below to apply! 👉 Click here to apply! [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefNgW-Va7dyBx67M3d27INmkndnwm1C3Ywa7NJoFa2EscQkA/closedform] Thank you for your dedication and commitment to our cause. We look forward to working with you to make our community a better place for everyone!
Women's Issues Community Taglist! Stay Updated
by SoulfullyAButterfly
Last post
 3 days ago
...See more The Women's Issues Community Tag List is a way to stay connected with new discussions, resources, and posts shared by our forum supporters. By joining the tag list, you’ll receive notifications when important updates are posted (up to 4 times a week). These updates can include everything from wellness tips and discussions to helpful resources that align with the community’s focus on women’s issues. If you'd like to be added or removed from the tag list, simply leave a comment below. Being part of the tag list helps you stay engaged and ensures you don’t miss out on opportunities to connect and share your thoughts! ------------------------- Current taglist - updated by Mya on 17th October @adventurousBranch3786 @ashleybell415 @ASPIRINGCOUNSELOR @Aylathegreat @azuladragon34 @blxepxndx @calmmoon2104 @Callmetanya5 @creativeTalker5179 @DaisyBeeBlooming @daydreammemories @decisivePapaya238 @Eddy94 @emotionalkitty101 @fluffypickles123 @GentleLily3 @gentleWater9634 @GoldenRuleJG @halcyonCloud2036 @HarmonyBlossom @iloveyouxx @Jaeteuk @janiewanie423 @K87 @Kala @KarmaTheRascal @KaylaMaulfair @KindnessMatters2020 @lalabrowni @listenwithempathy @LittleSunshine2036 @littleLemon4973 @LovingPeacefulHeart @MoreThanJustMe @Mya000 @Noorahmed89 @OptimisticMoon1124 @PFord79 @pioneeringShade8010 @purpleTree4652 @RainbowRosie @RobinNew @shyMoon8539 @sincereSkies9563 @SirenOfSerenity @sky2Ocean20 @Smilintru67 @softSummer7903 @SomeHope2022 @SoulfullyAButterfly @tealPark1424 @TheCucumberry @trueconfidant123 @victoriousLily5344 @woMango9097 @zaramerch
The Pressure to Smile: Challenging the Sexist Expectation
by Mya000
Last post
 Saturday
...See more Have you ever been told to "smile, it’s not that bad" or "don’t be so serious"? Society often expects women to smile at all times, regardless of how we’re feeling inside. This pressure can feel suffocating, as it reinforces the idea that women’s emotions should always be calm and pleasing to others. The expectation to constantly smile, even when we're stressed, anxious, or upset, is a restriction on our emotional expression. This injunction to smile is not only unrealistic but deeply rooted in sexist ideals. Women are often expected to appear happy or accommodating at all costs, regardless of the circumstances, as though our worth and value are tied to our outward appearance and our ability to please others. This can lead to suppressing our true emotions, which is harmful to our mental and emotional health. Women should have the freedom to express their feelings authentically, without being judged or pressured to perform happiness. Whether we're upset, frustrated, or simply not in the mood to smile, it’s okay to embrace the full range of emotions and to be true to ourselves. You don’t owe anyone a smile, and your feelings are valid no matter what. How do you handle the pressure to smile? What are some ways we can unlearn this expectation and embrace our true emotions?
scared of having pgad
by tokkittalgi
Last post
 Friday
...See more //tw: afab genital/sxual health,, if that’s icky to you i suggest you click off now and have a great day <3 this started a day or two ago. like, a weird tingly feeling in my lower area. i know WHAT it means (arousal) but i don’t want to go into too much detail. but the thing is, it wouldn’t even go away. for anything. like,, sometimes the feeling WOULD go for a bit but then it’d come back,, and i wouldn’t even be doing anything that would trigger a stimulation response. the feeling just sits there. it’s been really distressing. i searched on google for what this could be (i know, probably not the best idea) and i stumbled across the condition of pgad (persistent genital arousal disorder), and to say the least i’m panicking. i have NO ONE to talk abt this with. and if i told my mom she’d think im some sort of disgusting shameful dirty person that did this to myself. so now i don’t know what to do. 
Share Your Ideas for the Community!
by Mya000
Last post
 November 11th
...See more Hey everyone! I’d love to hear your thoughts on the types of posts and discussions you’d like to see in our Women’s Issues Community. All suggestions are welcome! Feel free to share in the comments or send me a private message if you’re more comfortable that way. Looking forward to hearing from you all!
TTC with PCOS
by MarcelineTheVampireQueen95
Last post
 November 9th
...See more Received a call from the fertility clinic that they were sorry but my bloodwork came back negative.. that moment all I could say was, “Ohh, uhh, that’s okay..” I honestly don’t know how or what I’m feeling right now.
📢 Women's Issues Community Event Announcement!
by Mya000
Last post
 November 8th
...See more Join us for a special Women’s Issues Community Session this Friday at 2 PM ET! We’re thrilled to welcome Mindful Journey (@mindfuljourney22) and Shadow (@ShadowFaerie) as they lead an inspiring session on Female Friendship and Sisterhood. In this session, we’ll explore the joys, complexities, and meaningful connections that come with female friendships and the support we find in sisterhood. It's a safe, inclusive space to reflect, share, and celebrate the unique bonds we have as women.  🗓 When: Friday, 2 PM ET 📍 Where: Support Session Room We can’t wait to see you there! 
I HATE My Period
by callmeRM
Last post
 November 8th
...See more I HATE my period with a passion I deel with deblitating persiods where I sometimes black out in pain I've spooken to countless docters about it  From my perdatirsion to an OBGYN to a family medison doctor I have tried everyone and no one wants to figure out what is going on Let me start by saying I absoultly love my doctors and outside of this have had a great experiance with them and honistly they are probaly some of the best doctors one can have and I know I'm privalged to have them, there are countless times where they went above and beyond for me or my my family  With that being said I have been trying to figure out why im in deblitating pain and how to stop it for over 10 years The first few years I was adimint about finding the cause and soultion but after hearing the same thing and feeling like no one is investigating I gave up, now a few years later not only am I in deblitating pain but my emotions are so off the way I cant even keep up with them Here was how the first years of me wanting answers went: I tell them I have deblitating period pain and it makes me miss school and life and I dont want BC They tell me its cus im young and my persiod will stablise and be more normal then perscribe me BC If they had asked me more questions they would know that I got my period very young and have had it for 8+ years by the time I went serching for answers  They dont do any exams, they dont do blood work , they dont do anything Went to an OBGYN and told her the same thing and asked if I can get the thing that stops my period I was in the waiting room longer then I was with her and she just said no Still no questions, no exams, no blood work, nothing They tell me take pain kills but I have other things I take pain killers for and I am a scared that in the long run my kidy or liver (i forget witch one it effects) will get damaged  I dont want BC becouse I dont want to take meds every single day After a few years I gave up Now I need answers  Its not just pain anymore, its the emotinal tole that my period has on my that I cant take I have pain killers for the pain, but I dont have any medication for the emotional rolocoster that my period takes me on Last month I sobed for a week straight none stop, I crashed out and had so meany brake downs I didnt even try to count I can tell myself all I want that its my period makeing me feel and act that way and in a few days ill be ok but when im in it I dont see anything besided what im feeling its like emotinaly blacked out There is no medication for this Im aprehensive about going back to the doctors cus I dont want to hear the same thing  And its not just the days on my period either, its the days before and after to Im genualy scared of my period and when I feel it coming I get scared and my body almost preps for it It also doesnt effect me, there are so meany times where I am doing life but I have to inconviense the people I love becouse I cant continue doing what ever we are doing, weather its becouse I need puke or im in so much pain I cant stand or my emotions are so crazy that im yelling at them one second and crying the next I  am OVER it And the thing is I dont even realy want kids so im going through all of this for no reason 
Understanding Misogynoir: The Unique Challenges Black Women Face at the Intersection of Racism and Sexism
by Mya000
Last post
 November 6th
...See more Misogynoir, a term coined by Black feminist Moya Bailey, captures the specific, often-overlooked discrimination faced by Black women due to the intersection of both racism and sexism. This dual oppression creates a distinct experience for Black women, setting it apart from that of other women of color and Black men. Misogynoir reflects how negative attitudes and actions toward Black women are deeply influenced by both their race and gender, compounding into unique forms of discrimination. ------------------------- The Impact of Misogynoir in Society Media Representation The media often portrays Black women in hypersexualized or stereotypical roles, fueling harmful narratives that dehumanize and misrepresent Black womanhood. A recent study looked back over 400 years, showing how media depictions of Black women have been exploited to reinforce white supremacy and negative stereotypes. Healthcare Disparities Black women face systemic biases in healthcare, impacting their treatment and health outcomes. They are often not taken seriously when reporting pain, resulting in delayed or inadequate care, which can lead to serious health risks. Workplace Barriers At work, Black women experience unique challenges linked to both racism and sexism. Studies reveal that they are often perceived as less competent, and even when they hold leadership positions, they may face tokenism and excessive scrutiny. Violence and Abuse Misogynoir contributes to higher rates of violence and abuse against Black women, including domestic and sexual violence. These disparities are worsened by systemic racism, which often neglects their experiences and needs. Educational Bias In schools, Black girls frequently experience adultification bias, where they are perceived as older and less innocent than their peers. This bias can lead to disproportionately harsh disciplinary actions that impact their educational journey. ------------------------- Why Recognizing Misogynoir is Important Understanding misogynoir is essential in recognizing the unique barriers Black women face, shedding light on how race and gender intersect to shape their experiences. Recognizing these challenges is crucial to building an inclusive feminism that addresses the specific needs of Black women. By acknowledging misogynoir, we can work towards dismantling systemic barriers, amplifying Black women's voices, and promoting equitable treatment across all sectors. ------------------------- Moving Forward with Awareness and Solidarity Addressing misogynoir requires a conscious effort to challenge and change the systems that perpetuate these inequities. Through increased awareness and fostering solidarity, we can create spaces that respect and elevate Black women's voices and experiences. Understanding misogynoir is an essential part of building a truly inclusive movement for justice—one that champions equality by recognizing and addressing the unique, intersecting barriers Black women face.
pms symptoms, health anxiety??
by harm0nias
Last post
 October 30th
...See more TRIGGER WARNING for general mentions of breast cancer and self examining ----- hi, this post is a little soon after asking if it was okay for me to ask questions here but i've specifically had this on my mind. my health anxiety spiral recently has stemmed from a previous health concern not really related to this at all, a false alarm regarding the heart 2 weeks ago that got examined with a normal x ray and other tests. this is kind of important for context though which is why i say it. my anxiety about that has definitely lessened, and this past saturday i actually began to feel pretty okay about it before anxiety began popping back up on sunday. i say all of this because something that started the returning anxiety was a general coming and going sore feeling in the breasts, but by now im definitely also having other symptoms that can be related to pms- general body aches, fatigue yet trouble sleeping, not feeling well, even a couple pimples popping up, etc; everything but the cramping, basically. but i can't stop having the thought like "the x ray should have caught something, but what if something in the last 2 weeks has changed?" i've checked myself, even the underarms where the lymph nodes would be, and nothing feels or looks wrong aside from the tender feeling. and in the next couple days is probably when my period should come around, but there is a high chance i have pcos (i haven't been diagnosed, but i show many symptoms that lead back to it) so every month is like a guessing game of whether or not i'll get it even if i have feelings of pms. for once, getting it would bring me peace of mind rather than dysphoria, so i'm hopeful i do. but right now im struggling to not immediately assume the worst and make myself panic because i won't feel any better if i do.
AhhhhhhHHHhHhhhHhh
by AliceRndom
Last post
 October 30th
...See more It's 0:24 as I'm writing this. I'm 16 years old and currently lying in bed crying because I can't sleep because my period cramps are too painful. My mother is asleep already and when I told my father I had cramps he proved to not be helpful. He just told me to sleep, put on comfier pants and that's it. I had put on comfier pants already. I dont want to approach my father again because one, I think its embarrassing and two, I don't know what I would say. I don't know if I should ask for painkillers or not. So I'm just lying here, frustrated and crying as I wait for sleep to overcome me. I'm writing this as a sort of distraction and because I just need to share my pain and know that I'm not the only one experiencing this. It hurts like *** and I'd give anything to be a dude right now. I've never had bad period pain, so this is completely new to me and it feels excruciatingly painful. My respect to those who have it far worse, I don't know how y'all still alive. I don't know what else to say other than repeating myself for the third time. I'm tired and in pain and have no access to painkillers, heating pads or tea. I hate this. I respect you and love you all<33

About the Women’s Issues Community

Welcome to the Women’s Issues Community — a dedicated space for discussing topics related to women's health, well-being, and experiences. Our goal is to provide a supportive and respectful environment where members can connect, share, and learn from each other.

How Can You Contribute?

You can make a significant difference in our community by:

  • Responding to Threads: Engage with ongoing discussions by offering your insights or support. Your contributions can help others feel understood and valued.
  • Sharing Personal Experiences: If you’re comfortable, share your own experiences to offer support and solidarity. Your stories can inspire and help others navigate their own journeys.
  • Joining or Initiating Discussions: Feel free to start new discussions on topics relevant to women’s issues or join existing conversations. Your voice and perspectives are important.
  • Becoming a Forum Leader: If you’re passionate about helping others and managing community discussions, consider joining us as a Forum Leader. Check out this thread for more information on how to get involved.

Stay Updated:

To keep up with new discussions and updates, you can join our tag list. This will notify you whenever there is a new thread or important update within the community.



Thank you for being a part of our community. Together, we can foster a supportive and informative space for all women.


Community Guidelines

Community Guidelines for Women’s Issues Community

Welcome to the Women’s Issues Community! To ensure a respectful and supportive environment for everyone, please adhere to the following guidelines:

  1. Respect and Kindness:
    • Treat all members with respect and kindness. Disagreements are natural, but personal attacks, harassment, or any form of discrimination will not be tolerated.
    • Be considerate of different perspectives and experiences. This community thrives on support and understanding.

  1. Discrimination:
    • Sexism, misogyny, or any form of discrimination is strictly prohibited. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect.
    • If you encounter content or behavior that violates this principle, please report it immediately.

  1. Relevance to Women’s Issues:
    • Please keep discussions relevant to women’s issues and topics related to health, well-being, and experiences unique to women.
    • For discussions not related to women’s issues, please use appropriate forums.

  1. Trigger Warnings:
    • Please note "TW" (Trigger Warning) at the beginning of your post if the content may be sensitive or triggering for some members. This helps others prepare for or avoid content that might affect their well-being.
    • Examples of content that may require a trigger warning include discussions on trauma, abuse, or other sensitive subjects.

Thank you for being a part of the Women’s Issues Community. By following these guidelines, you contribute to a supportive environment for everyone. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to the community leaders. 

Read the 7 Cups Guidelines
Community Leaders
Community Mentor / Teen Community Star
@Mya000
Community Resources

Resources

Below are some essential resources related to women’s health, safety, and well-being:

International List of Sexual & Domestic Violence Agencies

Find a comprehensive list of agencies worldwide that provide support for sexual and domestic violence:

Guide Exclusively for Listeners on Sexual Abuse

For in-depth support and information on sexual abuse, explore this specialized guide:

Mental Health Resources

USA Crisis Helplines

Health and Wellness

  • Planned Parenthood: Offers a range of health services and resources for reproductive and sexual health.
  • Women’s Health.gov: Provides information on women’s health topics, including fitness, nutrition, and wellness.

Helpful Forum Posts

Explore these informative threads to gain insights and connect with others on important topics:

Feel free to explore these resources for support, information, and assistance. If you have additional resource suggestions or need further help, please contact the community leaders or moderators.