A woman who born with two vaginas has opened up about the heartbreaking reality of her condition that many people fail to understand.
Annie Charlotte, 26, from Surrey, lives with a rare condition known as uterus didelphys, which she discovered at the age of 16 when she attempted to have a mirena coil fitted.
A doctor then revealed to her that she had two uteruses and two cervixes. Since her diagnosis, Annie has faced challenges in dealing with the healthcare system, expressing her frustration over the lack of support in comprehending her medical situation.
While it doesn't affect her physical health, the condition could significantly impact her future, particularly regarding her ability to conceive.
Annie shared: "It doesn't affect my 'physical' health, but it does majorly impact my fertility health. I'm probably unlikely to be able to have children.
"I could be prone to having miscarriages, or I might not even be able to conceive. I would never be able to carry a baby to full term, or I'd have to have a C-section."
She further explained: "If I ever do get pregnant - and because everything 'down there' is half the size - I won't be able to carry a baby to full term because it wouldn't fit. I do have two periods though. That is kind of annoying! So, when I'm not on the pill, I do sometimes bleed twice a month, which is really annoying."
Initially, she confessed to feeling "mortifying" about her diagnosis and contemplated surgical intervention. Nonetheless, healthcare experts counselled her against such measures.
These days, she embraces her exceptional physical trait, and through OnlyFans, she acknowledges it's a prime contributor to her flourishing career. She takes joy in not having opted for surgery as it might've negatively impacted her current professional achievements.
From her viewpoint, without anything to measure against, she can't affirm whether life is markedly different than if she had a solitary vagina; yet, she observes that sexual experiences tend to be "super intense" Confronted with many crass inquiries about her reproductive system, Annie has clarified: "It's all internal. So I have two vaginas, which is the internal bit, and two cervixes and two uteruses."
When discussing romantic interests, Annie disclosed that men are typically unfazed by her condition, though curiosity prevails. Still, she admits there are vast gaps in her own understanding.
Annie has previously expressed dissatisfaction with the medical guidance given to her, describing it as "subpar" and disclosing the lack of solid support from healthcare professionals, which she finds taxing.
Annie holds on to hope that eventually, she'll acquire a deeper insight into what her future holds. For the moment, however, she's committed to living life to its fullest and best of her capability.