In a groundbreaking study encompassing 5,022 women, alarming statistics have unveiled the lingering taboos surrounding various aspects of women’s health. The research, conducted by OnePoll, has shed light on the prevailing reluctance to discuss essential issues, impacting the well-being of women.
Among the notable findings, a significant 29% of the surveyed women expressed that stigmas still surround discussions about menopause. Similarly, a substantial 24% revealed feeling that the same social taboos surround conversations about mental health. These percentages vary with age groups, as 18-34-year-olds reported a higher rate of 34%, whereas respondents over 55 registered a comparatively lower 13%.
In a digital age where social media plays a crucial role in disseminating information, 36% of respondents who actively use social media platforms reported encountering posts related to women’s health that were hidden due to being flagged as ‘sensitive content.’ Furthermore, a mere 19% of participants believed that information posted on women’s health by health and well-being social media accounts was either completely or mostly accurate.
Amy Price, a spokesperson for OnePoll, emphasized the need to challenge these pervasive norms, stating, “Taboos around women’s health perpetuate inequality. It’s time to challenge these norms and ensure that women’s well-being is a priority in every conversation. We can no longer afford to overlook women’s health issues due to societal taboos.”
To combat the ongoing issue of taboos surrounding women’s health, 65% of respondents believed that education should begin addressing these topics in schools. Furthermore, 60% felt that mainstream media should provide more accurate data and information about women’s health, while 46% advocated for an end to censorship terms on social media platforms to facilitate discussions about women’s health.
Worryingly, over half of the respondents (55%) believed that the government’s efforts to address women’s health issues on a societal level were inadequate. This underscores the urgency of addressing these pressing concerns.
The study also revealed that 16% of respondents had taken steps to reduce their stress levels as a result of women’s health issues. This percentage was notably higher among 18 to 24-year-olds (20%), individuals aged 45 to 54 (19%), those in full-time employment (18%), and parents with children aged five to 11 (20%).
In a heartening revelation, more than three-quarters (76%) of the participants acknowledged that they had been able to make life changes with the support of those around them. Additionally, 60% expressed their willingness to openly discuss and share personal women’s health issues with close family members. However, for those who hesitated, 42% considered such matters a ‘private matter,’ while 20% expressed embarrassment as a barrier to open conversation.
Gareth Lucy, spokesperson for hygiene and health company Essity, voiced concern about these pervasive taboos, particularly regarding health issues that affect all women. He urged collective action, saying, “Whatever barriers are preventing women from being able to talk openly and candidly about their health need to be broken down. The research tells us there’s a problem, now it’s up to government, industry, and healthcare professionals to work together and provide the solutions.”
In conclusion, Amy Price of OnePoll.com emphasized the importance of confronting these taboo topics, highlighting that avoiding them only perpetuates stigma. The study’s findings underscore the critical need to address these issues openly and comprehensively to improve the overall well-being of women.
