The Girl Behind the Pen

Toothache is something I've been battling for what feels like forever. Despite knowing I needed professional help, I kept making excuses—the pain was bearable, I didn't have time, or I was afraid of what the dentist might say. Don't get me wrong, I usually have a packed schedule, but I'm also a believer that if you want something to happen, you'll make time for it. So, it all boiled down to my fear.

Can you blame me, though? Anything to do with needles, injections, and all those medical stuff can be terrifying. But there was this one day that I couldn't take the pain anymore. It was the first time that I felt that pain and when you're in that situation, you imagine terrible things in your mind. I was so desperate to have my toothache treated because that time, it was really that painful. 

So, when I got the chance to have my teeth checked, I couldn't turn it down. That's how I found myself at the Affinity Dental Clinics - BGC High Street. 

Inside the Affinity Dental Clinics - BGC High Street

As soon as I set foot in the clinic, I felt relaxed. Located on the 4th level of One Bonifacio High Street Mall, this clinic is one of their newest and most modern. 

The clinic exudes a sleek, minimalist modern luxe vibe with clean lines, chic lighting, and luxurious finishes in wood, stone, and leather. Plus, you get stunning views of High Street Park and the Shangri-La Hotel at the Fort. You can even watch your favorite movie or series on Netflix during the treatment!

Inside, there are three private and spacious dental treatment suites, top-of-the-line equipment, and a cozy, inviting lounge with that same amazing view.

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t impressed. But what really made me feel at ease were the dentists. Dr. Alou, who checked my teeth, is among the top 5 in the 2023 Boards.

The Treatment

One of my teeth is damaged but they told me it can still be saved through a root canal treatment. I've read a lot about this and it's a better option than extracting your tooth for a few reasons. 

On the day of my treatment, Dr. Javier at the Estancia Mall branch performed the root canal. After settling into the treatment room, Dr. Javier walked me through the process. What I appreciated most was his detailed explanations at every step, keeping me informed and reassured. As someone who makes a living by asking questions, I had plenty, and he answered them all happily.

Affinity Dental Clinics changed the way I view dental health and procedures. We are so accustomed to a process that intimidates and scares us, which is why many avoid clinics. But Affinity Dental Clinics proves that it doesn't have to be this way. Dental and general health procedures can also feel like a spa retreat—relaxed and worry-free.

Book your appointment now at Affinity Dental Clinics.

Address: 4th Floor, One Bonifacio High Street, 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

Contact numbers: (02) 7004-3187 | (+63) 917- 711-1492

Email: bhs@affinitydentalclinics.com

In a world where discussions about women's health often feel taboo, Bayer Philippines took a bold step to change the narrative. On August 30, 2023, they launched "Bayer For Her: Conversations of Care," an event that aimed to create a safe and empowering space for women to talk openly about their health. Coinciding with PCOS Awareness Month in September, this event was not just about raising awareness; it was about fostering a community of empowered women who are unafraid to share their health experiences.

Real Stories, Real Empowerment

One of the most empowering moments of the event came from three of the most prominent social media personalities in the Philippines: Verniece Enciso-Lim, Say Tioco, and Melissa Gohing-Nacino. 

Former professional volleyball player Melissa Gohing-Nacino opened up about her emotional battle with PCOS and getting pregnant. She credited her husband and OB-GYN for being her rocks through this challenging time. "Our OB-GYN really helped us throughout the process until we found the right treatment and medication to control the symptoms and help with my fertility," she said.

Endometriosis, a painful condition affecting many women, was also discussed. Dr. Margaret Cristi-Limson, a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology, stressed that early diagnosis is key. She shared, "Endometriosis sometimes takes several years to be diagnosed through laparoscopy. However, medical breakthroughs allow clinical diagnosis, encouraging doctors to start treatment even without surgeries."

Verniece Enciso, a vlogger with endometriosis, spoke about the importance of seeking professional advice, saying, "I couldn't stand the pain, so I finally talked to my doctor and got the diagnosis. He recommended treatment options that suited me, and I'm glad I sought his professional advice." Her story resonated with many women both online and offline who had felt isolated in their struggles. Verniece's message was clear: "You are not alone, and there is help out there."

Content creator and reproductive health advocate Say Tioco emphasized the importance of building a community where women can openly discuss their health concerns and overcome the stigma. "Women tend to hesitate when it comes to discussing contraception because of the persisting myths and stigma," she noted. But she quickly broke the stigma and encouraged women to openly talk about sex, reproductive health, contraceptives, and more taboos. Being educated about those things can go a long way and help save lives. Like what Verniece said, Say highlights that you are not alone.

Bayer's commitment to women's health extends far beyond this event. They collaborate with various organizations to promote rights-based family planning, counseling, and comprehensive reproductive health education. Initiatives like the Women's Health Matters webinars provide a safe space for young women to consult healthcare professionals about their reproductive and sexual health concerns, free from judgment.

Bayer has also introduced Ask Mara, a chatbot where women can ask questions about their reproductive concerns, from contraceptive options to their usage and the pros and cons of each method. This accessible resource empowers women with knowledge and the confidence to make informed choices about their reproductive health.

As we celebrate PCOS Awareness Month this September, let's remember that the conversation about women's health should be ongoing and not just a one month celebration. Bayer For Her: Conversations of Care has lit the spark for change. It's a movement that empowers women to take control of their health, share their stories, and support one another. Let's stop the silence, embrace the power of open dialogue, and create a world where women's health is not just a topic for discussion but a cause for celebration. Together, we can empower one another to make informed choices and break down the barriers that have held us back for too long.

Free Pop-up Consultation Clinics Across the Philippines

To help more women make informed decisions, Bayer for Her is opening free pop-up consultation clinics at selected partner drug stores. This aims to encourage more women to seek expert help on reproductive health. 

September 2023

What You'll Gain from the Expo:

• You'll meet over 70 local and international experts and over 1,000 franchise experts, owners and managers at the Franchise Asia Conference.
• How to franchise your business
• How to invest in the right franchise
• How much capital you'll need to prepare
• Inspiration from business owners, franchisees and celebrity-entrepreneurs