women's health

Many of us know that the pill can come with a whole host of side effects. But despite women reporting mental health issues while on the pill, there is little solid research into the psychological effects of the medication. Now a new study has found…

Stigma and taboo around menstruation has existed for decades, if not centuries. People on their periods are often embarrassed to talk about the topic, sometimes struggle to afford sanitary products, and, in certain areas, can even be treated…

Every person who has a period experiences period pain differently. Whether you bleed or not, you're likely to suffer from cramps, whether that's in your stomach, back, or legs. Sometimes, these cramps can be debilitating. At other times, they're…

In this week's Sex IDK column, Emma McGowan, certified sex educator and writer, answers your questions about the rhythm method. Q: I want to know more about the rhythm method and non-hormonal contraception choices that are effective with low side…

In a new report published on Wednesday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a link between textured breast implants and lymphoma. Of reports received by the agency since September 2018, the FDA found there are 457 women in American…

Most people who have periods will experience some form of period pain. Whether you're doubling up each and every month or only experience the odd cramp every now and then, knowing what that pain means and how to combat it can literally change your…

Access to technology, clean water, education, and, of course, free health care makes the UK a relatively appealing place to live. However, in recent times, cracks have begun to show, and it looks like the UK is on the verge of bursting at its seams.…

Period poverty is a global problem with both children and adults struggling to afford the cost of pads, tampons, mooncups, and the like. Despite protests and shocking statistics, governments have been slow to implement change. It's left many people…

The idea that only men should enjoy sex is an archaic thought, but new research reveals that women are still enduring discomfort and pain during sex. So one of the world's most well-known sexual wellbeing brands has decided to do something about it.…

Getting spots is incredibly annoying. As an adult, it feels like you are given a million other things to stress about than your skin. Spots should be left in your teenage years. But no. Spots on your scalp are less common than on your face, but they…

Many people believe that female genital mutilation (FGM) is a procedure that only happens on the other side of the world, but it's also an issue right here in the UK. Feminist collective The Pink Protest and activist Nimco Ali have launched a joint…

In this week's Sex IDK column, Emma McGowan, certified sex educator and writer, answers your questions about medication and birth control. Q: Can antibiotics make birth control less effective? I often get confused about antibiotics, various…

If you have a lot going on in your life, chances are that mild stress is pretty much inevitable throughout your days. Stress can be caused by anything from hugely complicated situations to minor inconveniences, so you're not alone if it seems like…

On Monday, the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare (FSRH) released updated guidance on combined hormonal contraception (also known as CHC); a contraceptive category which includes pills such as Microgynon, Rigevidon, and Marvelon along…

Cramps are the worst. While many have an achy, emotional, and all-round unpleasant time during their period, for some, it can be exceptionally painful. Here are the signs that your period pain is abnormal. The NHS website states that period pains is…

Anti-abortion activists held their annual "March For Life" protest in Washington, D.C. on Friday, and although President Trump didn't appear in person, he did record a short, pre-recorded video that was shown at the event. In Trump's 2019 March For…

Period pain comes in two forms: pain that is caused by an underlying health condition like endometriosis or pain that isn't caused by any medical issues. The latter form, known as primary dysmenorrhoea, is likely to be what you experience every…

After taking some time away from social media over the last several months, Selena Gomez has returned to Instagram. And her latest post provides some insight into how the singer is doing during her time out of the spotlight. Back in October, TMZ…

Periods are a weird one, aren't they? Some months, you won't feel any pain at all and can go about your everyday business without a care in the world. Other months, all hell breaks loose and you're doubled up in bed for a few days. Funnily enough,…

Spoilers for Outlander Season 4 Episode 9 ahead. Though Outlander is set in the 18th century (and sometimes the 20th) the series is no stranger to tackling modern social issues. From indigenous rights to sexual assault, from queerness to domestic…