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Women's Issues Community Taglist! Stay Updated
by SoulfullyAButterfly
Last post
 Saturday
...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
Join Our Team: We're Looking for Forum Supporters!
by Mya000
Last post
 November 18th
...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!
What Would You Tell Your Younger Self About Self-Esteem?
by Mya000
Last post
 3 days ago
...See more If you could speak to your younger self, what would you tell her about self-esteem and self-worth? What advice, lessons, or encouragement would you share with her?  Let’s take a moment to reflect and connect through the wisdom we’ve gained over time. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments. Your words could inspire and uplift others on their own journeys! ❤️
💛 You Are More Than Your Looks 💛
by Mya000
Last post
 December 3rd
...See more You don’t need to change anything about your appearance to fit anyone’s idea of beauty. You are so much more than how you look. Your value comes from your heart, your mind, and everything that makes you uniquely you. Take this moment to remember: you are enough, just as you are 🌼 Feel free to tag a friend who might need this reminder today—
Understanding Body Image
by trueconfidant123
Last post
 September 22nd
...See more Body image refers to how individuals perceive their bodies and the feelings associated with this perception. Positive body image is linked to body satisfaction, while negative body image reflects dissatisfaction. Key Aspects of Body Image Beliefs: What a person thinks about their appearance. Feelings: How they feel about their height, weight, and shape. Experience: How they sense and interact with their body. What is Positive Body Image? Positive body image occurs when someone feels comfortable and confident in their body, appreciating its appearance. It encompasses a broad concept of beauty and emphasizes self-care, free from societal pressures. Research indicates that positive body image is associated with better mental and physical health, higher self-esteem, and reduced rates of depression and unhealthy dieting. Promoting body positivity should be integral to health education. What is Negative Body Image? Negative body image involves dissatisfaction with one’s appearance, often leading to harmful behaviors like obsessive monitoring, extreme dieting, and even unnecessary cosmetic procedures. It can be linked to mental health issues, including depression and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), where individuals obsess over perceived flaws. Origins of Negative Body Image Negative body image is influenced by various external factors, including cultural ideals, media representations, family dynamics, and peer pressure. Discrimination based on race, size, gender, and personal experiences like illness or accidents can also contribute to feelings of inadequacy. These influences can significantly affect mental and physical well-being. Tips for Cultivating Positive Body Image * Surround yourself with body-positive individuals. * Practice positive self-talk, focusing on strengths rather than perceived flaws. * Wear comfortable clothing that makes you feel good. * Recognize that beauty transcends appearance. * Appreciate your body for its abilities, like dancing or creating. * Critically assess media messages that promote unrealistic standards. * List ten non-appearance-related qualities you value about yourself. * View yourself as a whole person, beyond individual body parts. * Treat your body kindly with self-care activities. * Engage in hobbies or volunteer work that foster a sense of fulfillment. Treatment for Negative Body Image When negative body image impacts daily life, professional help may be necessary. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is effective for identifying and challenging harmful thoughts. In more severe cases, such as BDD or eating disorders, medication may be recommended under professional guidance. Prompts for the Community * Write down three things you love about your body. * Share a media message that impacted how you feel about yourself and how you overcame it. * Can you share a moment when you felt good about your body? Feel free to answer all or any questions you would like to. We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Your voice can help break the silence and support others facing similar challenges. For further support, consider consulting a healthcare provider if you're concerned about body image or how they affect your well-being, and explore support groups and resources. ------------------------- Resources and Further Reading Medical News Today- Source [https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/249190#treatment] Centre for Change- Source [https://centerforchange.com/battling-bodies-understanding-overcoming-negative-body-images/?__cf_chl_tk=EPiqYZ.nxioGsh70K3qTuHi7vhV8TBJCE5RguurqJ48-1726926153-0.0.1.1-4457]
Nutrition and Eating Disorders Among Women: The Impact of Societal Beauty Standards and Diet Culture
by Mya000
Last post
 September 19th
...See more Trigger Warning: This post discusses eating disorders, body image, diet culture, and mental health. ------------------------- Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, once considered primarily a problem among young women in Western countries, are now increasingly observed worldwide, including in developing nations like India. Recent research highlights that these disorders have multifactorial origins, influenced by genetics, neurobiology, and cultural factors. Despite advancements in understanding and treating eating disorders, they remain complex to address, particularly due to cultural variations in how these disorders present and the limitations of established therapies. Societal Beauty Standards, Diet Culture, and Social Media The pressure to conform to societal beauty standards that idolize thinness plays a significant role in the development of eating disorders. Diet culture, reinforced by media and advertising, often normalizes extreme dieting, food restriction, and an unhealthy obsession with appearance, fostering body dissatisfaction among women. Social media further amplifies these issues, with studies showing that young women exposed to dietitians, influencers, and celebrities promoting restrictive diets and “ideal” body types are at a higher risk of developing eating concerns.  The Need for a Holistic Approach Addressing eating disorders requires a comprehensive approach that considers the physical, psychological, and social aspects of health. Nutritional rehabilitation, psychotherapy, and in some cases, pharmacotherapy are essential treatment modalities. However, there is also a need for broader public health interventions, including awareness campaigns and education on healthy eating habits to counter misinformation and promote body positivity. Promoting intuitive eating and holistic health approaches that prioritize well-being over appearance can be transformative. Alongside this, body positivity movements challenge societal norms that equate thinness with health and beauty, encouraging women to embrace and appreciate their bodies in all shapes and sizes. Moving Forward To effectively tackle the challenges posed by societal beauty standards and diet culture, collaborative efforts from healthcare providers, educators, communities, and policymakers are essential. Raising awareness about the harmful impacts of these cultural norms and fostering a supportive environment for women to discuss their struggles without stigma is crucial. The ultimate goal is to shift the narrative from appearance to holistic health and well-being. ------------------------- Questions for the Community: * Have you or someone you know experienced the impact of diet culture or societal beauty standards on your relationship with food or body image? What helped or hindered recovery? * What steps do you think communities can take to promote body positivity and healthy relationships with food? * How can social media be leveraged to provide positive messages and combat misinformation about nutrition and health? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—your voice can help break the silence and support others facing similar challenges 💙 ------------------------- This post is informed by research from the Indian Journal of Psychiatry and the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. ------------------------- Eating disorders, body positivity, diet culture, social media influence, women's health, holistic health
Hirsutism And Unwanted Body Hair In Women
by trueconfidant123
Last post
 September 5th
...See more Defining Hirsutism Hirsutism, as defined in medical literature, refers to the presence of excess coarse hair in females, typically in areas more commonly associated with male hair growth, such as the face, chest, abdomen, and back. However, some physicians also consider hirsutism to include any hair growth that is unwanted or embarrassing to women. This broader perspective acknowledges that, in contemporary Western culture, even small amounts of female hair can be seen as undesirable, where hairlessness is often considered the norm for women. Shunning Stereotypes or No? The removal of facial hair is just as paradoxical – the pressure to do it is recognized by many women as a stupid social norm and yet they strictly follow it. Because these little whiskers represent the most basic rules of the patriarchy – to ignore them is to jeopardize your reputation, even your dignity. Causes of Excess Body or Facial Hair Women can develop excessive body or facial hair due to higher-than-normal levels of androgen hormones. These hormones include testosterone and androstenedione. All individuals produce androgens, but these levels typically remain low in individuals assigned female at birth. However, if a women’s skin suddenly becomes sensitive to androgens, or her body begins to produce these hormones in excess, she can develop hirsutism.  There are a few conditions that can cause this hormone imbalance. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one common cause of hirsutism. It accounts for 85 percent of cases. In addition to hirsutism, other symptoms of PCOS can include: * irregular menstrual cycle * weight gain or difficulty losing weight * acne * thinning hair * skin tags * fertility difficulties Embracing Natural Hair: Redefining Beauty Standards In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards body positivity, encouraging women to embrace their natural bodies, including body and facial hair. This shift challenges traditional beauty standards and promotes the idea that women should feel confident and comfortable, regardless of societal expectations. Embracing natural hair is becoming more accepted, and many women are choosing to redefine beauty on their own terms. Discussing unwanted hair due to societal pressure can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that embracing your own choices and feeling confident in your skin is what truly matters. ------------------------- Prompts for the Community * What has been your experience with facial or body hair? How has it impacted your self-image? * Have you ever felt pressured to remove hair due to societal expectations? How did you handle it? * What are your thoughts on breaking stereotypes around body hair for women? Feel free to answer all or any questions you would like to. We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Your voice can help break the silence and support others facing similar challenges. For further support, consider consulting a healthcare provider if you're concerned about hirsutism or PCOS, and explore support groups and resources dedicated to helping women manage these conditions. ------------------------- Sources: Science Direct [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022399906000420] Healthline [https://www.healthline.com/health/excessive-or-unwanted-hair-in-women#outlook] The Guardian [https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2017/nov/30/female-facial-hair-if-so-many-women-have-it-why-are-we-so-deeply-ashamed]
You Carry So Much Love
by KaylaBella
Last post
 August 13th
...See more I colored this page and saw a really good quote that I hope serves as a gentle reminder to love yourself a little bit more, and to give yourself a little bit of the love you give everyone else. Give yourself a little bit of the grace you give everyone else as well. We aren’t perfect and that’s okay. We are human, we are women, and we are warriors. We all have scars, but those scars are what makes us beautiful! 💖💕✨
My period makes me feel sad
by Borbiexoxo
Last post
 March 12th
...See more I feel very sad, i just need to type what I feel. I feel very down right now, and i’m in my head alot right now and hurting my feelings with my thinking. I also know that im on my period right now and it definitely does cause me to tank even more and is behind my sadness. I know all the sadness i feel is because of my period. I want a heating pad and to be held and kept warm. This is all 
Body Dissatisfaction Can Lead to Eating Disorders at Any Age
by fruityPond7887
Last post
 January 18th
...See more Eating disorders are stereotypically associated with adolescents and young adults. Growing evidence, however, suggests that these conditions can occur at any time during a woman’s lifespan, including at midlife. A new study finds that body dissatisfaction is a primary cause of eating disorders, especially during perimenopause. Study results are published online today in Menopause, the journal of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS). Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by disturbances in eating behavior and body image that occur in approximately 13.1% of women across the lifespan. The prevalence of any eating disorder specifically for women aged older than 40 years is roughly 3.5%, with specific symptoms such as dissatisfaction with eating patterns being documented as high as 29.3%. Serious complications such as high mortality and morbidity are associated with eating disorders. These adverse health events are likely to be magnified when present at older ages. However, few studies on eating disorders have included participants at midlife, including premenopause, perimenopause, and postmenopause. There is some evidence that supports the idea that perimenopausal women have the highest rates of dysregulated eating behaviors (eg, weight-control behaviors such as regular counting of calories or consumption of diet foods) of any reproductive stage at midlife and are significantly different from premenopausal women with regard to body dissatisfaction and feelings of fatness. Although findings such as these remain scant; the association between eating disorders and symptoms of perimenopause (eg, negative mood, depression, and fatigue) confirm that perimenopause may be a particularly risky time for eating pathology. In this new small study, which sought to investigate the structure of eating disorder symptoms specifically during perimenopause and early postmenopause, the researchers used network analysis statistical models to compare the structure and importance of specific eating disorder symptoms across reproductive stages. Although they admit that larger studies are necessary with this underrepresented female population, the researchers believe that the study confirms that dissatisfaction with body image is a key risk factor for eating disorders across the lifespan, especially at midlife. Study results are published in the article “Network analysis of eating disorder symptoms in women in perimenopause and early postmenopause.” “This study shows that, similar to studies in young adults, dissatisfaction with body image remains a core feature of eating disorder pathology in midlife women. Specifically, fear of gaining weight and fear of losing control over eating habits are central symptoms of eating disorders in perimenopause and early postmenopause. These findings may help direct more targeted treatment strategies in women during midlife,” says Dr. Stephanie Faubion, NAMS medical director." *I wanted to share this article because this is pretty new research and there haven't been many studies done yet on it. When we think of eating disorders, we usually think of teenage girls and adolescents. It should be pretty obvious that this population isn't the only one that would struggle with an eating disorder. It makes sense that those who are in the middle of menopause would have the highest rates of disordered eating behaviors, most likely due to hormone changes and how they view themselves. This evidence just goes to show that we should be more open-minded about eating disorders and that many people may struggle with them more than we realize. What other conclusions do you think future research could reveal in terms of eating disorders?* #EatingDisorders #Perimenopause #BodyImage Please find the full article at Science Daily. [https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/01/230118092038.htm] If you liked this article, you may like this one [https://www.7cups.com/forum/WomensIssues_217/MenopauseandPerimenopause_1853/WhyWeShouldGetComfortableTalkingAboutMenopausePublicly_299970/] about why we should get comfortable talking about menopause publicly.
Mommy Tummy
by craterlake
Last post
 January 14th
...See more For all the moms out there, do you struggle with mommy tummy? I had my last kid 5 years ago, been through 3 cesarians. I can't seem to tighten up my lower mommy tummy and it really bothers me. I try to wear some sexy lingerie but the front is cut so dang narrow and my mommy tummy just doesn't look that great (at least to me) when it's not covered. Anyone been through this, currently dealing with it, or have suggestions to cope or fix? In all vanity I wouldn't be above getting a tummy tuck but it would have to be at the bottom of a big line of other things I'm working on myself first like general weight loss, removing tonsils, maybe some permanent hair removal, and getting regular doctor appointments. Sorry for the vanity but I want to look and feel good going into my 40s. They are closer than I'd like. 
Inspire, Empower, and Encourage
by SupportiveViolet
Last post
 October 26th, 2023
...See more "There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish." - Michelle Obama [https://twitter.com/obamafoundation/status/839493848816570369?lang=en]
Inspire, Empower, and Encourage
by SupportiveViolet
Last post
 October 24th, 2023
...See more "A woman with a voice is, by definition, a strong woman." - Melinda Gates
Inspire, Empower and Encourage
by SupportiveViolet
Last post
 October 24th, 2023
...See more "Learn to embrace your own unique beauty, celebrate your unique gifts with confidence. Your imperfections are actually a gift.” - Kerry Washington

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.

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    • 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
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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.