Skip to main content Skip to bottom nav
Community /

Women's Issues Forum

Talk to a licensed therapist Wherever you are, whenever you need support. Get matched
Info
1,738 Friends
Filter by Topic
Aging Announcements & Events Body Image & Self-Esteem Coping with Violence against Women Discussions Introduce Yourself Menopause and Perimenopause Reproductive Health Safety & Empowerment
Considering therapy? Talk to a licensed therapist, wherever you are. Get started
Community calendar
Group chat
Ask questions, get support and make friends
Find a group chat
My communities
Talk to an expert therapist
Counseling is about making changes you seek in your life. It is a place that...
Talk to Stacy Now
New subscribers
Create a New Thread
Gif Photo Link
SoulfullyAButterfly profile picture
Women's Issues Community Taglist! Stay Updated
by SoulfullyAButterfly
Last post
 June 2nd
...See more The Women's Issues Community Tag List is a way to stay connected with new discussions, resources, and posts shared by our forum supporters. By joining the tag list, you’ll receive notifications when important updates are posted (up to 4 times a week). These updates can include everything from wellness tips and discussions to helpful resources that align with the community’s focus on women’s issues. If you'd like to be added or removed from the tag list, simply leave a comment below. Being part of the tag list helps you stay engaged and ensures you don’t miss out on opportunities to connect and share your thoughts! ------------------------- Current taglist - updated by Mya on 17th October @adventurousBranch3786 @ashleybell415 @ASPIRINGCOUNSELOR @Aylathegreat @azuladragon34 @blxepxndx @calmmoon2104 @Callmetanya5 @creativeTalker5179 @DaisyBeeBlooming @daydreammemories @decisivePapaya238 @Eddy94 @emotionalkitty101 @fluffypickles123 @GentleLily3 @gentleWater9634 @GoldenRuleJG @halcyonCloud2036 @HarmonyBlossom @iloveyouxx @Jaeteuk @janiewanie423 @K87 @Kala @KarmaTheRascal @KaylaMaulfair @KindnessMatters2020 @lalabrowni @listenwithempathy @LittleSunshine2036 @littleLemon4973 @LovingPeacefulHeart @MoreThanJustMe @Mya000 @Noorahmed89 @OptimisticMoon1124 @PFord79 @pioneeringShade8010 @purpleTree4652 @RainbowRosie @RobinNew @shyMoon8539 @sincereSkies9563 @SirenOfSerenity @sky2Ocean20 @Smilintru67 @softSummer7903 @SomeHope2022 @SoulfullyAButterfly @tealPark1424 @TheCucumberry @trueconfidant123 @victoriousLily5344 @woMango9097 @zaramerch
SoulfullyAButterfly profile picture
International Women’s Day 2026: Give to Gain
by SoulfullyAButterfly
Last post
 March 8th
...See more This year’s International Women’s Day theme is “Give to Gain,” a campaign that emphasizes the power of reciprocity and support. The idea is simple but powerful: when we give encouragement, empathy, and help to others, we often gain connection, strength, and growth ourselves. On 7 Cups, this happens every day. A supportive reply, a kind message, or simply listening without judgment can make someone feel less alone. Even small acts of care can create ripple effects across the community. The Give to Gain theme reminds us that support is not one-sided. When we show up for others, we also gain: * A sense of purpose * Stronger connections with others * New perspectives and shared wisdom * A more compassionate community You don’t need perfect advice to help someone. Often, being present, listening, and showing kindness is more than enough. Let’s reflect together: 1) What is one small way you’ve given support to someone recently? 2) What did you gain from that experience? 3) What is one way you have supported another woman - or been supported by one - that made a real difference in your life? Thank you for being part of a community where every act of support matters. When we give to each other, we all grow stronger together. 
Mya000 profile picture
Weekly Women’s Circles Sessions 💬
by Mya000
Last post
 September 29th, 2025
...See more Join us for a space to connect, share, and support each other ✨ 🗓️ When: Every Saturday at 12 PM EST 📍 Where: In the Adult Support Session room This is an open space for women to come together, share their experiences, and support one another. Whether you’re looking for a sense of belonging, a place to voice your thoughts, or just a calm moment of connection, this circle is for you. What to expect: 💛 A safe, welcoming environment where all voices are valued. 💛 Weekly topics focusing on women’s issues and challenges. 💛 Guided conversations facilitated by thoughtful questions. 💛 A chance to connect with like-minded women and build genuine support networks. Each week, we’ll explore a different theme. Come as you are, whether you want to share or just listen, you are warmly welcomed here. We hope to see you there, and feel free to invite others who might benefit from this space! Let’s create a community where every woman feels supported and heard.  Hosted by @ShadowFaerie and @Mya000
ButterflyLoveNotHarm profile picture
Purity culture and female cutting issues
by ButterflyLoveNotHarm
Last post
 May 29th
...See more Hello, I don't know if anyone else here has experienced the pressure to look a certain way pelvicly or feel less sensation, but I would love to learn how you worked towards positive body image and/or stopping cutting.  I am recovering from self harm, but I thought it would be good to post in the women's thread because it is related by religious pressure to appear like you have no external genitalia to the point of dangerous cutting methods.  My current partner is very supportive, but I still face intrusive thoughts because I am just starting to work towards stopping this pattern rather than encouraging it and removing parts. How does one truly learn to always feel whole and confident in their body without modifying it further? 
GlowingCrowbar profile picture
Any tips on how to move forward?
by GlowingCrowbar
Last post
 March 12th
...See more My husband uses an electronic journal to set goals each morning, and do an overview each night.   I've occasionally opened it up to leave him a fun or sweet message as a loving gesture, but not often. About a week ago, I went to leave him a message, but on the opening page I saw some very hurtful things he'd with about me as a way to "give it to God and let it go" to clear his mind before bed.  I was absolutely shocked.   I was shocked because the words he used are not words I've ever heard him used to describe anyone, let alone me.  I truly couldn't believe what I was reading, so I went back through the previous pages and saw more entries and other terrible things written about me.  All I could think is that this isn't my husband, he doesn't use these words.   I sat on it for a few days, And eventually ended up telling him what I'd read and giving him the chance to explain.  He felt terrible that I had read those things, and tried to explain that journal was to help him clear his mind at night and sleep better. He said some of the terms he used were just shorthand/ code and that he was getting out intrusive thoughts so they would go away.  I knew that this is what he used this journal for, And I can maybe understand the intrusive thought thing and or shorthand... But I still can't get rid of the dirty feeling I'm left with.  These aren't words that he's ever used to describe even the most despicable being.  He said that these were his private thoughts and that he never expected anyone to see them (even though he admitted to knowing that I leave him notes in it sometimes), But in my brain that means that they were probably the most true because he wasn't guarded. And now every single negative thought I've ever had about myself has been reinforced and I don't know how to move past it.  I don't know how to believe him that these aren't his true feelings about me. When I'm around him, I just want to feel good again and things feel like maybe they'll get back to normal sometime soon.  But when he's not around, it's all I can think about... And I'm drowning in the fact That nearly every single negative thought I've ever had about myself has been reinforced by his own words. He's a good man, a good dad, and a fantastic partner in a lot of ways. He's never once said something to purposefully hurt me, even during an argument.  I feel like I know who he is at the same time as feeling like maybe I don't know him at all. 
thehealingroomwithlulu profile picture
To that beautiful woman life is testing lately
by thehealingroomwithlulu
Last post
 January 10th
...See more I see your strength even when you feel weak. I see your courage even when fear whispers. I see your light even when the world seems dark. You are not defined by your struggles, nor diminished by your pain. Every setback is shaping the resilient, radiant woman you are becoming. Hold on to hope, trust your journey, and remember you are more than enough. You are loved, you are seen, and you are rising. Keep shining, even through the storm.
LatikaTeotia profile picture
In the Age of Filters, We Forgot What Beauty Feels Like
by LatikaTeotia
Last post
 November 25th, 2025
...See more Between ring lights and retouching,our daughters are losing the art of seeing themselves with kindness  A letter to every girl who ever looked in the mirror and felt not enough. My dear girl,you were born complete, not waiting for filters to finish you. There was a time when mirrors were simple. They showed us our faces-not our flaws. We smiled into them without zooming in and we walked away without questioning our worth. But somewhere along the way, something shifted. Now, mirrors speak louder than minds. They tell young girls how much thinner, fairer or smoother they should be — how their value depends on how close they come to someone else’s version of perfect. The world has become a loud classroom that teaches one quiet lie- that beauty can be bought. Scroll through any screen today and you’ll meet a thousand perfect faces. Same smiles. Same sculpted noses. Same unwrinkled expressions. Each post whispers- You could look like this too- if you tried harder. And somewhere, a young girl- perhaps sixteen, perhaps you once — sits in her room, staring at a glowing screen. She compares her reflection to someone who doesn’t even look like herself anymore. She doesn’t realize that behind that flawless skin are filters, edits and the quiet fear of fading relevance. She sighs, opens another app and thinks- “Maybe if I change just one thing, I’ll feel better about me.” That’s how it begins- not with vanity, but with doubt. So girls start early. They hide freckles under foundation. They contour their childhood away. They whisper to themselves, just one more change and I’ll be enough. What begins as a dream of confidence slowly becomes a dependence on correction. But the truth, dear one, is that nothing is missing from you. You don’t need to chase perfection- you only need to return to yourself. You were never meant to look like anyone else. You were meant to glow like you. Actually, we have raised a generation that knows how to pose better than it knows how to pause. Every selfie is a small audition for acceptance. Every heart icon a fragile validation. But it’s high time we teach our daughters and lovingly tell them that beauty was never meant to compete- it was meant to connect. Your face tells a story- of laughter, lessons, heartbreak and becoming. That story is your light. And the world doesn’t need another copy- it needs your truth. Yes, society whispers differently. It rewards the flawless and celebrates the filtered. But remember this- No surgeon’s hand can sculpt confidence. No cream can lighten self-doubt. And no camera can capture what a kind heart radiates. Beauty that depends on approval will always feel fragile. But beauty that grows from acceptance- that is strength, peace and freedom. To every girl reading this- your reflection is not a test. It is not a project to be perfected, but a poem to be understood. You can choose to be whole, without anyone else’s permission. And one day, you’ll look in the mirror and smile- not because it shows perfection, but because it shows truth. And truth, dear girl, is the most radiant thing you will ever wear. “The world will try to sell you mirrors. But your real beauty begins the moment you start seeing yourself with kindness.” ~Latika Teotia
hopefulencounter profile picture
hi I'm new here in this forum. Is it okay for me to keep wearing glasses instead of trying eye contacts?
by hopefulencounter
Last post
 November 21st, 2025
...See more I never try to wear contacts, me and sister have been wearing glasses since a long time ago but lately my sis becomes insecure again about wearing glasses. She says something like "For once I want to enjoy youth by not wearing glasses, I will buy eye contacts soon." Good for her because she can wear contacts, while me? 🫣 I can't.. But I understand there's a point of view of seeing glasses as unattractive.. there are so many movies or comics about people with glasses turning attractive after they wear eye contacts.  I think I'll never wear eye contacts like ever .. I'm more comfortable with glasses, but are glasses  really unattractive? 🥲 Just want to share my overthinking here, thanks in advance..
PiecesOfWhoeverIWas profile picture
Feeling uncomfortable in my skin
by PiecesOfWhoeverIWas
Last post
 November 8th, 2025
...See more I didn’t know if I should put this here or the self-esteem forum. Something someone said has been bothering me that time isn’t seeming to help. A couple months ago, husband and I had just broken up. We were still around each other amicably, deciding how things would go moving forward. We still had feelings for each other, but in short had too many irreconcilable differences. I don’t want this to get too long talking about him, but for some background there were some mental/physical abuse and control issues.  During this time, in the middle of normal conversation, he decided to tell me that there were times he had trouble getting intimate with me because of my belly. I have had children, and in the beginning of our relationship he had told me that he knew that sort of thing was normal and he doesn’t prefer when women are too thin anyway, that he liked some weight. So I was comfortable for the most part with my looks and felt good about myself in that way. If I ever didn’t like something, I’d work toward fixing it. I’m not overweight at all. But I do have issues with a slightly distended stomach due to a couple health problems. There are lifestyle things I do that make it not as bad, but it will probably never be a flat stomach. He knew about these things. He wasn’t helpful in supporting me achieving those lifestyle changes. I don’t want to get into the specifics, but sometimes he’d push me past my limits or purposely do things I shouldn’t do, so I’d try to keep up with him. I’m trying to be more conscious of those things now. I’ve always struggled with depression for other reasons. He knew that. I don’t understand why he felt the need to tell me. He’d always say he’s “just sharing” and that I should want him to be honest, he thought I should know. I think he always hinted that I should exercise more, but my doctor told me I can’t do intense abs exercises like crunches because of one health condition. My husband never believed doctors opinions though. I don’t know why he thought this would be helpful to me. He ruined one part of my small self-esteem I didn’t worry about. What made it worse was he got irritated that it made me sad. He said that it was only sometimes and he was attracted to me most of the time, but I don’t know which was which and what was different. He tried to explain and said I was misunderstanding and being too sensitive. At the end he punished me by saying that he won’t share anything with me anymore. I had times where I thought he was getting too much belly eating too many desserts and things that he can control but won’t, but still it never affected my attraction to him, and I never said anything. It wasn’t that big of a deal to me, my attraction was more than just physical, and I feel like everyone goes through changes. I understand the need for honesty if it gets to the point where you’re concerned for someone’s health. I even think it’s ok to talk about things that affect attraction for one another if something gets really bad. I think it just hit me hard because I don’t have a lot of control over it, he didn’t exactly support when I wanted to do things better, and I think overall I still look really good and the same as when he met me. He friends and other people think I’m attractive. I hate looking in the mirror. I don’t like getting undressed or showing, being naked at all. I feel uncomfortable in my skin. I feel like I should think “well forget him”, especially since he was so mean about so many other things in our relationship. I don’t know why I can’t have that attitude. It’s like I’m letting him have one more form of control over me. But knowing that doesn’t help me feel better. Are all men so shallow and I’ve just been naive? I can’t think they are, but maybe because of where I live now it seems like they are. His friends seemed nice, but then they’d say or do things that would shock me. When I go out shopping, I wear a coat or baggy clothes now.
JuicyAcai111 profile picture
Corn should be illegal
by JuicyAcai111
Last post
 November 7th, 2025
...See more I’m in the happiest relationship of my life, but he’s addicted to watching corn… I don’t want to end things, & it’s not a severe addiction, it’s occasional relapses. So I’ve been researching for months on how to best support him. I bought us both books to read & work on our personal well being. But at the end of the day, my self esteem has been deeply damaged. 89% of men subscribed to OnlyFanz are married, I refuse for my husband to be in that statistic   Has anyone else here overcome this addiction in their marriage? Has anyone else left their marriage bc of this? (Btw no I will not get over it. I know not all men are addicted. Don’t normalize corn)
craterlake profile picture
Mommy Tummy
by craterlake
Last post
 November 6th, 2025
...See more For all the moms out there, do you struggle with mommy tummy? I had my last kid 5 years ago, been through 3 cesarians. I can't seem to tighten up my lower mommy tummy and it really bothers me. I try to wear some sexy lingerie but the front is cut so dang narrow and my mommy tummy just doesn't look that great (at least to me) when it's not covered. Anyone been through this, currently dealing with it, or have suggestions to cope or fix? In all vanity I wouldn't be above getting a tummy tuck but it would have to be at the bottom of a big line of other things I'm working on myself first like general weight loss, removing tonsils, maybe some permanent hair removal, and getting regular doctor appointments. Sorry for the vanity but I want to look and feel good going into my 40s. They are closer than I'd like. 
Borbiexoxo profile picture
My period makes me feel sad
by Borbiexoxo
Last post
 November 6th, 2025
...See more I feel very sad, i just need to type what I feel. I feel very down right now, and i’m in my head alot right now and hurting my feelings with my thinking. I also know that im on my period right now and it definitely does cause me to tank even more and is behind my sadness. I know all the sadness i feel is because of my period. I want a heating pad and to be held and kept warm. This is all 
librastar29 profile picture
My partner upset me today
by librastar29
Last post
 November 6th, 2025
...See more Hey everyone. This is very embarrassing to talk about but today my partner and i were having sex. He had known I am on my period right now and thats never really stopped us. In fact, he has made it very clear in the past that us being intimate should not be affected by my period, as long as i am ok with it. However, today we were changing positions and i had noticed there was a decent amount of blood and i immediately apologized and we started to get back to it, but he stopped us and said, "I'm sorry i cant." I apologized again, we cleaned up and i burst into tears. I cried for at least an hour, and he comforted me, cuddled me, and reassured me that everything is okay and he was sorry he upset me. I told him it was okay and I tried my best to act as normal as possible. He left my house and i tried to go on about my day as usual, but to be honest, ive been holding back tears all day, trying to distract myself from how the situation made me feel. Although my partner reassured me he is still attracted to me and isnt disgusted by me, unfortunately, that reassurance didnt make me feel any better about myself. Ive always struggled with gender and body dysphoria and i guess today just stirred up those feelings again. i feel embarrassed, ugly, and disgusted with myself. I am sorry this post is so long, just needed somewhere to put my feelings and im too insecure to talk to anyone in my personal life about it. thanks to anyone who has read this, please respond with any thoughts
ipoopcats profile picture
Insecurity
by ipoopcats
Last post
 November 6th, 2025
...See more i've been having severe allergic reactions for the past 3 days now and it's starting to really affect how i look at myself. i'm having unbearable itchy red rashes all over my body and it's honestly really disturbing to look at.  my prescriptions don't really help. my symptoms would fade for only like 3 hours before it starts to flare up again. i cant sleep. wearing clothes worsens the spread.  i just hope this will be over soon. i've been neglecting my health a lot due to depression and i guess this is the price i have to pay. 
tryinglittleaudrey profile picture
shattered mirror
by tryinglittleaudrey
Last post
 November 6th, 2025
...See more i put  on makeup to look pretty, still don't feel like it I wear loose clothes, tight clothes, and normal-sized sized. I never fully feel like I'm beautiful or not for sale never the right amount of curves never the right size body either too fat or too ugly I feel disgusting, ashamed, ugly, and fat  Can I ever be that one woman who is classified as ''beautiful or pretty '' I hate the way I look, not to mention the scars I have to try to hide every day 

About the Women’s Issues Community

Welcome to the Women’s Issues Community — a dedicated space for discussing topics related to women's health, well-being, and experiences. Our goal is to provide a supportive and respectful environment where members can connect, share, and learn from each other.

Weekly Women’s Circle Sessions:

We invite you to join our Women’s Circle sessions every Saturday at 10 AM EST in the Support Session Room on 7 Cups. These one-hour sessions are a supportive space for women to come together, connect, and uplift one another. We discuss various topics that change each week. Whether you want to share, or simply listen, you're welcome to join us just as you are!

How Can You Contribute?

You can make a significant difference in our community by:

  • Responding to Threads: Engage with ongoing discussions by offering your insights or support. Your contributions can help others feel understood and valued.
  • Sharing Personal Experiences: If you’re comfortable, share your own experiences to offer support and solidarity. Your stories can inspire and help others navigate their own journeys.
  • Joining or Initiating Discussions: Feel free to start new discussions on topics relevant to women’s issues or join existing conversations. Your voice and perspectives are important.
  • Becoming a Forum Leader: If you’re passionate about helping others and managing community discussions, consider joining us as a Forum Leader. Check out this thread for more information on how to get involved.

Stay Updated:

To keep up with new discussions and updates, you can join our tag list. This will notify you whenever there is a new thread or important update within the community.



Thank you for being a part of our community. Together, we can foster a supportive and informative space for all women.


Community Guidelines

Community Guidelines for Women’s Issues Community

Welcome to the Women’s Issues Community! To ensure a respectful and supportive environment for everyone, please adhere to the following guidelines:

  1. Respect and Kindness:
    • Treat all members with respect and kindness. Disagreements are natural, but personal attacks, harassment, or any form of discrimination will not be tolerated.
    • Be considerate of different perspectives and experiences. This community thrives on support and understanding.

  1. Discrimination:
    • Sexism, misogyny, or any form of discrimination is strictly prohibited. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect.
    • If you encounter content or behavior that violates this principle, please report it immediately.

  1. Relevance to Women’s Issues:
    • Please keep discussions relevant to women’s issues and topics related to health, well-being, and experiences unique to women.
    • For discussions not related to women’s issues, please use appropriate forums.

  1. Trigger Warnings:
    • Please note "TW" (Trigger Warning) at the beginning of your post if the content may be sensitive or triggering for some members. This helps others prepare for or avoid content that might affect their well-being.
    • Examples of content that may require a trigger warning include discussions on trauma, abuse, or other sensitive subjects.

Thank you for being a part of the Women’s Issues Community. By following these guidelines, you contribute to a supportive environment for everyone. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to the community leaders. 

Read the 7 Cups Guidelines
Community Resources

Resources

Below are some essential resources related to women’s health, safety, and well-being:

International List of Sexual & Domestic Violence Agencies

Find a comprehensive list of agencies worldwide that provide support for sexual and domestic violence:

Guide Exclusively for Listeners on Sexual Abuse

For in-depth support and information on sexual abuse, explore this specialized guide:

Mental Health Resources

USA Crisis Helplines

Health and Wellness

  • Planned Parenthood: Offers a range of health services and resources for reproductive and sexual health.
  • Women’s Health.gov: Provides information on women’s health topics, including fitness, nutrition, and wellness.

Helpful Forum Posts

Explore these informative threads to gain insights and connect with others on important topics:

Feel free to explore these resources for support, information, and assistance. If you have additional resource suggestions or need further help, please contact the community leaders or moderators.