Nurture your vagina, says women’s health physio

Breaking down women’s health taboos, Umhlanga pelvic floor physiotherapist Candice Jane Lanford gave a bold talk on nurturing your vagina at the Sage Centre’s wellness day on August 16.

Langford is a physiotherapist with a special interest in women’s and pelvic floor health.

“I love when I can see people’s jaws drop!” said Langford, who firmly believes we should be able to speak up about these topics without shame or embarrassment.

“Nothing about our vagina or pelvic floor should be considered taboo, it’s a natural part of our lives. These are topics that every single female encounters throughout their lives. I am trying to normalise conversations around these kinds of things so that people will reach out and get the help they need.”

Langford treats women who struggle with urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, constipation, pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) and pelvic pain.

“Most importantly, I know that I am empowering women to feel more in control,” she said.

“As much as we know and take care of our face, we need to do the same with our private parts.”

Langford also runs a popular instagram account, @nurtureyourvagina, and gives talks at various events.

The wellness day was centered around raising funds for SUBZ, a company that makes washable sanitary pads that are donated to underprivileged girls in the rural communities.

Sue Barnes from Subz, said they managed to raise over R4000 donations and they will be donating washable sanitary pads at Sizani Combined school.

“We will donate 25 packs from the money raised and then to a whole grade with other funding,” said Barnes.

Women also enjoyed yoga and pilates classes in the new studio.

While some were busy with the classes, others were having fun at the market day, with traders selling anything from collagen products and essential oils to clothing and jewellery.