Pilonidal Is Not Just a “Guy” Disease
A woman with Pilonidal Disease built this site, and I first identified my condition by reading an article in Prevention Magazine. Before the Internet, I did what most people did back then—I went to the library to do research. From dusty old medical books, I learned that pilonidal disease was considered a “guy” problem—something that happened to men with hairy butts who rode in jeeps.
Why Me?
Needless to say, I was appalled and horrified that I had this problem because we women are programmed from the time we are little girls to have body hair issues. The sheer embarrassment of having this “guy” condition kept me from seeking treatment for a long time. I put off having surgery for 7 years because I was too embarrassed to let anyone know that I had this problem. It was a massively painful flare-up that finally drove me into a doctor’s office for a lancing.
The experience of doing this website startled me at first. I was amazed at how many women with Pilonidal Disease commented on the forums and shared their own stories. I discovered that I was not only NOT alone, but I was also one of thousands and thousands of women with Pilonidal Disease.
I also think more women are developing Pilonidal disease as society has changed over the past 30 years. Women spend just as much time today parked at our desks and sitting poorly in our chairs as men do.
Pilonidal and Hormones
To answer a common question, yes, women do tend to notice that Pilonidal flare-ups coincide with menstrual cycles. Hormone fluctuations cause our pores to produce more oil, which can block the follicles on our faces (hence the term “menstruation constellation”). Nobody knows.
It’s tough for women to be comfortable with male doctors messing with our nether regions. Find the best doctor you can, no matter what gender.
Don’t worry, you won’t be the only female in the waiting room. I guarantee it.
— Sandy
Go Here Next:
Now that you know what a Pilonidal is, you’re probably wondering if that’s what is causing your tailbone pain. Start here, then see a doctor to be sure.
How Pilonidal Disease develops in the natal cleft, based on theories and research of Dr. John Bascom. What are the risk factors?
Do you have a Pilonidal?
Check your symptoms here.