In the past four years, I have increasingly focused on understanding the powerful connection between my body and mind, because of my intense PMS. I have learned to both accept and embrace it as part of who I am. I describe my PMS to people as being covered in a thick veil - I cannot clearly see or hear what is going on in my surroundings, it's all muffled - making communication, both ways, very challenging. Being very open about my PMS makes it more manageable. I find it necessary to explain why it might come across as though I have two 'personalities'. Although some people do not necessarily accept or understand it and others find it amusing, the majority are compassionate and understanding.
Many attempts have been made to lessen the symptoms by trying various things: herbal medication, acupuncture, meditation, menstruation coach, birth control and anti-depressants. For the last two years, I have decided to learn and understand my natural cycle more. It's a never-ending, fascinating journey! My vulva is wonderful in so many ways, it not only gives me pleasure, but also, signals very clearly when something isn't right, it truly is magical and I feel I have so much more to discover! Self-acceptance and -love, especially of my vulva, has inadvertently led to attracting the most wonderful, open-minded, sensitive and sex-positive people, for which I am immensely grateful!
For the Vulva Gallery, it was important for me to submit a snapshot of my vulva as it was, without 'grooming' it in any way. It was a liberating and exhilarating experience! Thank you for letting me a part of this wonderful and very important project!
Sending you lots of love! You rock!
A. - 35 years old