Millennial Women’s Health Series

As COVID-19 ripples through our communities and unemployment remains at historic levels, it can be hard to think about the future. But even in times of uncertainty and upheaval, there can be great innovation. If there’s one population who understands that, it’s Millennials. This generation already has lived through turbulent times, including the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and the Great Recession, before even reaching middle age.

Each generation views health care through its own lens. Older ones tend to let the physician dictate treatment plans without question. As younger generations have stepped into their own sense of autonomy, the ways in which they interact with health care have shifted.

The body is political. From how we talk about healthcare and race to gender and age, it’s impossible to separate ourselves from the politics of the body. Millennials, and in particular, women, are at the forefront of these difficult -- yet necessary -- conversations surrounding inequities in U.S. healthcare and the need for reform.

What if women were taught to feel proud of their bodies? Instead of hiding tampons and whispering about menstruation, they were encouraged to openly discuss it. And what if speaking freely with friends about masturbation, sex and birth control wasn’t taboo, either?

Are you someone who calls your doctor for every little ailment? Perhaps you are the grin-and-bear-it type who only goes if absolutely necessary. Or, are you someone who avoids the doctor at all costs --- even when it’s detrimental to your health?