Let’s Be Real
Not every health concern is easy to talk about, especially when it involves your private parts. You might feel a weird pain in your lower belly, notice a new bump, or just get the sense that something down there isn’t quite right.
And before you even think about going to a clinic, your brain starts to spiral:
• “What if it’s something serious?”
• “What if they judge me?”
• “What if I go and it turns out to be nothing, and I look stupid?”
• “What if they tell me I have something I’ll never get rid of?”
So… you wait. You hope it’ll go away on its own.
Sometimes it does.
But too often, it doesn’t. And by the time you finally seek help, the issue has gotten worse. The cost, financially, emotionally, physically, is higher. And here’s the truth: this hesitation, this silence, it’s not because you don’t care. It’s because many of us were raised to feel ashamed. To think anything related to our genitals is dirty, secret, or “not to be talked about.”
But wanting clarity, comfort, or care? That’s not shameful. That’s human. You’re not overreacting. You’re not being dramatic. You’re doing exactly what you should do, listening to your body and wanting answers.
You Don’t Need to Say It Perfectly
You don’t need fancy words or medical terms. You don’t need to sound like a health textbook. You just need to say enough to start the conversation.
Try:
• “There’s a small lump near my groin.”
• “I feel a burning pain when I pee.”
• “Something just doesn’t feel right down there.”
Trust us, health professionals hear things like this every day. Their job isn’t to judge you. It’s to help you get the answers and care you need. If you’re nervous, that’s totally normal. But your discomfort won’t make them uncomfortable, they’re trained for this.
But What If They Don’t Take You Seriously?
Unfortunately, it happens. Sometimes a doctor dismisses your concerns. That is not your fault.
You’re allowed to ask again. You’re allowed to get a second opinion. You deserve to be heard, respected, and taken seriously, especially when it comes to your body.
When Should You See Someone?
If you’re dealing with any of the following, it’s time to reach out:
• A lump that hasn’t gone away after a week or two
• Persistent pain around your genitals
• Burning or discomfort while peeing
• Unusual discharge, odor or irritation
• Pain during or after sex
And honestly? If something just feels off, even if you’re not sure how to describe it, that’s enough of a reason. You don’t need permission to care about your health. And you don’t have to wait until it’s unbearable to get help.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Start simple. Call or visit your local health center. If you’re looking for a friendly ear and judgment-free support, message/call Letena. We’re here to help you figure things out, no shame, no lectures, just real answers.
You Deserve Peace of Mind
Whatever it is, knowing is better than guessing. Getting checked might feel scary in the moment, but living with uncertainty is scarier. Relief beats silence. Clarity beats fear. So go ahead. Ask the question. Start the conversation.
You don’t have to do it perfectly, you just have to do it.
Written by:- Bezawit Elias, Fifth Year Medical Student
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