Dearest Gentle Reader, Season’s greetings 🤍 If I’m being honest, I didn’t keep all the promises I made to myself and to you guys in January 2025🥺. And for a long time, that bothered me a whole lot. But looking back now, I understand why. Last year needed me to pause, to learn, to unlearn, and to grow, and I’m grateful for every part of it. One of the biggest lessons came from choosing a career path. As a Microbiology graduate who genuinely enjoyed every aspect of the course (weirdly so), deciding what direction to take wasn’t easy. I felt pulled in many directions, unsure of where I truly belonged. Eventually, I ran back to God for clarity and slowly, things began to align. That clarity led me to academic writing. It was something I had always been interested in but never quite knew how to begin. When I finally took the leap, it was challenging, exciting, and deeply fulfilling. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who referred me, trusted my work, and supported my journey. Thank you f...
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects 5-10% of women of childbearing age worldwide.
September is PCOS Awareness Month, and it's essential to shed light on this often misunderstood condition.
It's characterized by:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Cysts on the ovaries
- Insulin resistance
- Weight management challenges
- Acne and skin issues ( the whole ohhh look at how bad her face is, ohh her skin is horrible, ohh what’s wrong with your skin; you don’t know her struggles so please rest)
- Hair loss and excess hair growth ( see her hairline, look at those bald patches, ohhh so much hair like a monkey, Argggh beard gang; my darling rest oo)
Living with PCOS in Nigeria can be a lonely and misunderstood experience. Despite its prevalence, PCOS remains concealed in stigma, with many women suffering in silence.
The Physical Struggle is Real
PCOS affects every aspect of a woman's life, from irregular periods to weight management, acne, and hair loss. The physical symptoms can be debilitating, making everyday life feel like a constant battle.
The Emotional Toll
But PCOS is more than just a physical condition – it's also an emotional rollercoaster. Anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation are common companions for many women with PCOS. The pressure from cultural expectations to be a "strong African woman" only adds to the weight.
The Stigma is Real
In Nigeria, PCOS remains misunderstood, with many people asking invasive questions or offering unsolicited advice. The lack of awareness and understanding from communities and families can be heartbreaking. And the way some guys see it ; disheartening
Finding Strength in Community
But there is hope. By sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can create a community that uplifts and empowers each other.
Empowerment Through Awareness
So, what can you do to help?
- Educate yourself about PCOS and its effects on Nigerian women; now this isn’t just for the girlies, I believe guys too need to educate themselves so we can break this long chain of stigmatization.
- Listen to our stories without judgment; Abeg all those maybe you offended someone or the gods, or na powers talk should end
- Offer support and encouragement
- Advocate for better healthcare and resources for women with PCOS in Nigeria
To all the strong, resilient, and beautiful girlies and women with PCOS,
May your hormones balance, your skin clear, and your cycles regulate. May your mental health be nourished, and your self-love flourish. I wish you love, peace, healing and the best support system to go through life.
You are not alone, and you are enough. Keep shining, keep fighting, and know that better days are ahead.
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