More than 100 guests attended a lunch and learn event at the Old Government House Hotel on Friday, where medical specialists encouraged women to become more familiar with their bodies and feel comfortable discussing intimate health concerns.
The annual event is a significant fundraising day for local charity, Bright Tights, which supports islanders affected by gynaecological cancer.
Its chairwoman Jo Le Noury said the colourful occasion provided an opportunity to tackle subjects that were too often overlooked.
‘It’s the biggest day in our calendar for fundraising, but also to raise awareness. It’s so important for us to be able to talk about gynaecological health and for people to get comfortable speaking about it. It’s lovely to have a day nominated deliberately for doing just that, and wonderful to see so many people wearing their bright tights and supporting.’
This year’s event placed particular emphasis on vulval health, with talks from local dermatologist Alice Walker, gynaecologist Vani Ramalingam, and Vas James from UK charity The Eve Appeal.
Dr Le Noury explained that the educational focus had been made possible by a former support group member who left the charity a legacy to be used for education.
‘It’s wonderful to have a dermatologist, gynaecologist and a researcher being able to tell people about vulval conditions because it’s something that we don’t talk about very much.’
Dr Walker, who works at the hospital and the Medical Specialist Group, discussed conditions including lichen sclerosus. She said there are many reasons still preventing women from seeking treatment.
‘I think people are embarrassed to seek help, and I think also people probably aren’t aware of the conditions that they can have with the vulva,’ she said.
‘It’s so important to try and break down stigma, break down people’s concerns about speaking about them, and to encourage people that if they do seek help, there are people who want to help and have the expertise that can help.’
Dr Ramalingam, who also works at the MSG, urged women experiencing persistent soreness, itching or other symptoms that did not resolve to consult their GP.
‘Hopefully, days like this will raise the profile, educate people about what is normal and what’s not, so they feel empowered to go and get the help that they need,’ she said.
‘Sometimes it’s something very simple and can be treated.
'Instead of having to worry about it constantly, it’s better to go and get it checked. Be aware, but don’t be afraid.’
Beyond raising awareness, Bright Tights provides one-to-one emotional support, group activities and practical help, including assistance with household bills and cleaning during cancer treatment
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