The internet abounds with sensational lies, and among the most infamous is the so-called "blue waffle disease." Usually surrounded by gruesome photos and dire warnings, the name has spread far and wide on the web, particularly in sexual health forums and social media posts.
Allegedly an unusual and graphic sexually transmitted illness (STD) that women suffer from, blue waffle has generated confusion, fear and even panic. But how much of it is real? Is blue waffle disease in women a legitimate medical condition or another web hoax? In this article, we dissect the facts, dispel the myth and investigate what could be fueling this web sensation.
Waffle, a slang term for vagina, combined with blue, implies a bad vaginal infection that discolours the area. This purported blue waffle syndrome was popularised as a shock meme: the viewer expects to see a humorous or bizarre shot of a blue-coloured breakfast waffle, but instead is presented with a graphic and photoshopped view of female genitalia inflicted with extreme infection and bluish hues.
The meme rode the wave of curiosity and taboos over female genitalia, quickly spreading across social media and forums. It eventually transformed into something individuals seriously questioned: was it a new STI? Could anyone get it?
Rumours of blue waffle disease in women include a frightening list of symptoms: blue-coloured labia or vulva, smelly discharge, intense itching, open sores, swelling and burning. By myth, it was allegedly caused by bad hygiene or unprotected intercourse.
But here's the reality. No medically recognised STD presents with symptoms as bizarre as those described in this so-called condition. In fact, the possibility of the vulva or vagina becoming blue as a result of a sexually transmitted disease is unfounded in clinical experience.
Medical experts have repeatedly asserted that blue waffle sexually transmitted disease does not exist. No sexually transmitted disease makes a woman's genitals blue.
There are unusual gynaecological disorders, such as cervical endometriosis or vascular lesions that will show bluish colourations, but these are not transmitted sexually and are either asymptomatic or mild. They don't have anything to do with the overstated and grotesque symptoms of the myth, either.
Blue waffle syndrome doesn't exist, but some actual infections do cause vaginal discomfort:
None of these infections causes the skin or mucosa to turn blue. If a person is showing symptoms like those outlined above, they should see a doctor, not trust online rumours.
There are a few reasons why myths such as blue waffle disease persist:
The myth persists because it plays on fear and shame, strong feelings that cause people to click forward and gossip about it without asking, Is this true?
"If you're experiencing itching, burning, unusual discharge, rashes or sores in your vaginal area, don’t panic, but don’t ignore the symptoms either. It’s important to seek medical advice promptly. Physicians can undertake tests through swabs, urine or blood to detect actual STIs as well as other vaginal infections.
The key point? Blue waffle does not need an actual diagnosis. Nobody will ever be screened or treated for "blue waffle sexually transmitted disease" because it just isn't something that exists. There are, however, actual infections and conditions that can and ought to be treated in a timely manner.
With women's health, timely, respectful and accurate care is what matters. Cloudnine stands apart with its patient-focused practice where the newest medical technology meets a welcoming ambience. Cloudnine provides personalised consultations, access to advanced diagnostic support and a group of experts and gynaecologists who appreciate both the medical aspects and emotional elements of women's health.
The internet is filled with myths, and blue waffle disease is a prime example of how quickly misleading information can spread. Contrary to whatever you have seen or heard, there is no STD blue waffle, no illness that turns the vagina blue and no scientific truth verifying the existence of this topic.
Instead of believing in fallacies like blue waffle syndrome, arm yourself with facts, approach trained health professionals like those at Cloudnine and refuse to be swayed by cyber myths and fads when it comes to understanding health. Facts matter, especially when it comes to your body.
