Breast pain got you down? We’ve talked on the blog about why you might get sore and tender breasts before your period, but what about if that pain happens after your period? We’re taking a closer look at why this happens, what to do about it, and how to ease the discomfort. Let’s sort out those achy boobs of yours… 

How common is breast pain, and what’s causing it?

As a PMS symptom, breast pain is relatively common. Studies show that 60% of UK women report experiencing breast pain, and whether it’s premenstrual, post-menstrual or for another reason, as a nation it seems our boobs are suffering!

There are two types of breast pain, and our previous blog post covered the cyclical kind - if you haven’t read it, you’ll find it here. This is the kind of pain and tenderness that’s linked to your menstrual cycle, and comes with PMS symptoms before your period, but if you’re dealing with pain after your period, it’s called noncyclic breast pain. This is nowhere near as common as cyclic breast pain and does not follow the menstrual cycle, but it’s still important to find out what’s causing it. In some cases it can be difficult to identify, since the breast is dense with tissue, and it’s not always easy to pinpoint the pain. 

What are some possible causes of noncylic breast pain? 

Just like other parts of your body, there are many possible reasons your breasts (or one breast) could be experiencing pain, tenderness or discomfort. Here are a few of the most common causes of noncyclic breast pain:

Pregnancy - Breast pain can be one of the first signs of pregnancy, and it can begin as early as 1-2 weeks after becoming pregnant, because your body’s hormones are preparing to support the growth of a baby.

Breastfeeding or Mastitis - Breastfeeding often causes breast tenderness, and sometimes pain. This might be dry, cracked nipples, pain while breastfeeding, or an infection like mastitis, which can cause symptoms like swollen, hot areas on the breast, a burning pain, lumps, or nipple discharge. Mastitis is usually easily treated, but it is important to see a doctor if you experience these symptoms. 

Heavy breasts - Those with larger, heavier breasts could develop pain, usually due to an overstretched Cooper’s ligament (ligaments that support the breasts). This can happen over time if you wear an unsupportive bra, and will usually be more prominent after exercise. 

Thrush - Yup, thrush can cause breast pain, as strange as it sounds. Thrush is a fungal infection, and it can develop anywhere on the skin, including the nipples. Breast and nipple thrush (known as BNT) is mostly found in those who are breastfeeding, and symptoms include itching, burning or cracked nipples, nipples that appear flushed, shiny or flaky, a blister-like rash, and shooting pains in the breast. 

A breast injury or surgery - Just like other parts of the body, breast injuries can happen while playing sports or exercising. If this happens and the pain doesn’t improve, speak to your doctor, especially if you notice severe swelling, lumps, a bruise that doesn’t go away, or redness or warmth, which can be a sign of infection. Similar symptoms can happen if you have had breast surgery, including implants. If you are experiencing pain after surgery, always discuss this with your doctor to make sure there are no complications.  

Another medical condition - Breast pain is often easily treated and nothing to worry about, and it’s unusual for breast pain to be a sign of anything serious, like cancer. However, it is not impossible for this to be the case, so it’s best to get any pain checked out ASAP, especially if it coincides with symptoms like breasts that are red, discoloured, swollen, heavy, or with thickened or dimpled skin. Don’t delay getting this checked out for peace of mind. 

A pain in the breast can be a pain in the neck! Your GP can suggest treatments for your specific situation to treat the underlying cause of your pain, but some other at-home remedies include:

Decreasing your salt intake - Salt causes water retention and swelling of the breasts, which makes them feel sensitive. Reduce salt to alleviate this. 

Increase your fibre intake - Fibre is known to remove excess hormones from the body, so it’s a great one to add to your diet to relieve hormone-related breast pain.

Massage breasts - There are many benefits of breast massage, one being pain relief. Try this in the shower or with some oil to make the massage smoother. 

Apply ice - Ice can bring down some of the breast swelling and therefore reduce pain, so use an ice pack (not directly against the skin) to do this. 

Get a well-fitting bra - A better bra can reduce discomfort and pain, so get a well-fitting bra for daytime, and a supportive sports bra for exercising. 

Talking to a doctor can do more good than you might realise, as studies show up to 85% of those with breast pain will show “alleviation of pain episodes after getting reassurance of not having breast cancer”. So once you know there’s nothing to worry about, you could start to feel better. 

Always see a doctor if you start to experience:

Infection symptoms like flushing, swelling or fever

Pain when breastfeeding, or signs of an infection like mastitis 

Any lump or growth in the breast or armpit

Any symptoms of breast cancer, like a change in size, shape or texture of the breast or nipple

Feel free to reach out in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie; and if you find something unexpected in your boobs, don’t put off speaking to your GP to make sure everything is A-OK. Remember that our personalised period box can get organic tampons, hormonal supplements and more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, so that's one load off your mind about everything that's going on with your body.

Breast Tenderness After Your Period? Here's What It Could Be

Your period’s late, and that can only mean one thing… right? Well no, actually it can mean several things, none of which are anything to do with pregnancy. Everyone knows that a late period can mean pregnancy - it’s a possibility - but it’s not the only answer. Here, we’re shining a light on some other reasons your period may not be as punctual as it used to be. 

Hormones change like the weather, and this tends to happen when you go on, come off, or change your birth control. Contraceptive pills (and other types of contraception like implants and injections) contain estrogen and progestin, which stop your ovaries from releasing eggs - these hormones can cause the consistency of your period to change. 

In some cases it can take around 6 months for your cycle to go back to its old self, so if you make changes to your birth control, you can expect to see differences in your menstrual cycle and its regularity. This isn’t usually cause for worry, but if you do have any questions or concerns don’t be afraid to ask your GP for reassurance. 

We all seriously underestimate the impact stress can have on our bodies. Your body’s stress-response system is rooted in a part of the brain called the hypothalamus, which is responsible for regulating your period. When you’re super stressed, your brain instructs the endocrine system to offer up hormones that activate your fight-or-flight mode, suppressing functions that aren’t needed to get away from immediate danger. Your menstrual cycle is one of those functions, so stress can temporarily stop you ovulating, leading to a delayed period. 

Physical stress can also play a role in changing your period regularity, as intense physical activity can affect the hormones, and cause you to lose too much body fat too quickly, which can stop ovulation. 

Weight can have a lot to do with your period, mainly when you lose or gain a lot in a short space of time. Low body weight (sometimes caused by an eating disorder) can result in late or missed periods, or they may stop completely. 

As a general rule, if you weigh 10% below what is considered “normal” range for your height, this can affect your ovulation function. Whatever the reason, discuss your weight loss with your GP so they can recommend the best way to stay healthy and get your cycle back to normal. 

Most people begin menopause around age 45-55, but those who develop symptoms from age 40 or earlier are considered to have early perimenopause. As your body prepares to stop periods altogether (menopause), you may start to experience irregular, late and missed periods. Perimenopause can come along as early as 10-15 years before menopause.

You may find that you skip a period one month, and then everything goes back to normal the next. The general rule is that if you have not had a period in a year, you are likely at the menopause stage, but if you need confirmation of this your GP should be able to help determine where you are in the process, and what you can expect going forward. 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that causes the body to produce more of the hormone androgen, and cysts form on the ovaries as a result. These cysts can affect ovulation, and therefore the regularity of the person’s period. PCOS is common, affecting around 1 in 10 UK women, and it’s thought to be responsible for around 1 in 3 cases of stopped periods. If your period is irregular, late or stopped altogether, it’s not out of the question to suspect that PCOS could be to blame. 

Your doctor can check this out for you, and if PCOS is the culprit, it’s usually easily managed and not dangerous, but your doctor may prescribe birth control or another type of medication to help regulate your cycle.

Some illnesses can impact your menstrual cycle, like diabetes, celiac disease, thyroid issues, and heart disease. In the case of diabetes, this is because blood sugar is closely linked to hormonal fluctuations, meaning poorly controlled diabetes can, in rare cases, result in irregular periods. 

With celiac disease, it’s because this causes inflammation that can sometimes lead to damage in your small intestine. When this happens, your body is unable to absorb key nutrients from food, and this can result in late or missed periods. Also, if you have an overactive or underactive thyroid, this could be the reason. Your thyroid gland is located in your neck, and it produces hormones that regulate many of the body’s functions - your menstrual cycle being one. 

If you’re worried about a late period, or you have other symptoms that you think might be related, your doctor can help you find out what’s causing it, and talk to you about treatments for whatever the problem may be. In order to diagnose the issue, your GP may ask about your medical history, your family's medical history, your sexual history, any stress you have been under, any recent changes in your weight, your exercise routine, and more. It’s helpful to keep track of your periods for a couple of months in order to give them as much information about your regular and irregular cycle as possible, but of course if you feel the issue needs to be looked into right away, don’t delay speaking to a medical professional. 

Got questions about late or missed periods? We love a period chat, so we do! Shout out in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox. That's one less thing to worry about, with everything that can be going on down there.

Help! My Period's Late! Now What?

Are “skin types” really a thing? They are indeed! 90% of people report their skin improved over lockdown as they spent more time looking after it, and taking time to understand your skin type can help you see great results. While the different types might be a little confusing, our mission is to have you all clued up by the end of this blog. We’re breaking down the 5 main skin types, how to identify yours, and more. Let’s get informed on that face of yours… 

Everyone on earth will have their own unique skin type, and the products that work for one won’t have exactly the same benefits for another. That said, it’s usually possible to categorise skin into one of 5 types identified by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), depending on things like water content, oiliness, sensitivity, and more. 

Your genetics impact your skin type, but other factors also determine this. Your daily routine, local weather, and sun exposure all play a part. Also, as you age, skin loses elasticity and is more prone to dryness and sensitivity. Then there are conditions like eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. And of course, your lifestyle. If you don’t use sunscreen, eat a lot of junk food, or are a regular smoker, these things affect your skin. A healthy lifestyle equals healthier skin. 

It’s often argued that there’s no such thing as ‘normal’ skin, but this term typically describes skin that does not suffer from things like oily patches, dryness, sensitivity, blemishes, and so on. People with normal skin are the lucky ones whose skin naturally produces the ideal amount of sebum to keep skin hydrated evenly without becoming greasy.

Oily skin has overactive sebaceous glands, meaning skin produces more sebum than needed, creating a greasy, shiny look. With oily skin you may notice larger pores, which means they clog easier, leading to spots and blackheads. Oily skin is common in teens going through puberty due to fluctuating hormones, which leads to a greasy T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) that’s more likely to experience breakouts. 

If you have dry skin, your skin produces less sebum than it needs, which can cause your face to feel tight, itchy, and even become flaky or cracked in places. Dry skin means a lack of moisture, and this can happen naturally as we age, so if you’re approaching menopause you may start to experience your skin becoming drier than you remember. Very dry skin can become itchy and painful, and can lead to eczema which may need specialist treatment.

How do I know if I have ‘combination’ skin?

Combination skin is a mix; the T-zone tends to become oily while the cheeks stay dry. The toughest thing about caring for combination skin is striking the right balance, as products that work to reduce one problem could exacerbate another. Various products may be needed, like a mild cleanser to wash cheeks, and an anti-acne product for the T-zone. You may need to try products longer than most, but finding a balance will make it all worthwhile. 

What does ‘sensitive’ skin actually mean?

Sensitive skin tends to become irritated easily or experience allergic reactions, and get breakouts or redness. While other skin types are determined by how much sebum the skin produces, sensitive skin is not, and it can affect those with dry, oily or combination skin too. Around 70% of women and 60% of men report having sensitive skin, so it’s common. You’ll know if you have sensitive skin if it burns, stings or itches when applying products.

Most people guess their skin type based on the above criteria, but if you want a more detailed assessment, there are some exercises you can try:

Monitor your skin on a typical day and ask questions like ‘is my T-zone shiny and are my cheeks matte?’, ‘do I have flaky patches?’, ‘how long does this last?’ and so on. 

On a normal day, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and apply nothing else. Wait 30 minutes, look in the mirror and ask the above questions again.

If you think you have oily skin, assess pore size, blackheads, and monitor how well your makeup stays on each day. Products that shrink pores can help with oily skin.

Press blotting sheets onto different sections of your face to see how much oil they absorb. Normal skin has very little residue. Dry skin has even less, oily skin has a lot, and combination skin will have more on the T-zone and less on the cheeks. 

Experiment with how often you should moisturise - if you have dry skin you’ll need to apply moisturiser a lot more frequently than someone with oily skin. 

Visit a dermatologist for an unbiased opinion on skin health and products to try. Many dermatologists have technology that offers an accurate assessment of your skin type. 

Remember that your skin might not fit into one of the categories above, and that’s OK. No matter who you are, even if your skin type isn’t ‘normal’, your skin woes are. 

Why does my skin type change around my period?

Sorry to throw a spanner in your sebum, but skin can do a U-turn around your period. Hormone fluctuations cause some people to experience period-related acne, as menstruation can intensify things like acne, psoriasis and eczema. Luckily, when your period goes, skin issues tend to disappear too. Happy days! 

Do you have questions about your skin type, and what the heck is going on with it during your cycle? Give us a shout in our private Facebook group or on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get organic tampons, hormonal supplements and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox so you've got one less thing to keep track of each cycle.

What's My Skin Type? Get The Facts

Periods bring on a lot of annoying symptoms every month, but one of the most irritating has to be breast pain. Whether you get yours just before your period comes or at another point in your cycle, they can feel achy, affect your daily activities, make it hard to sleep, and more. Here, we’re helping make sense of why you get breast pain, how to know if it’s something to worry about, and how to cope with it. 

Premenstrual breast swelling and tenderness is known as ‘cyclical mastalgia’, and it’s very common for people with periods who suffer with PMS (premenstrual syndrome). 

If you find your boobs hurt a lot before your period, it may be a sign of fibrocystic breast disease, which is when breasts become painful and lumpy before menstruation. The lumps can be large and may move when you push them, but they’ll usually go away when your period is over. If they don’t you’ll need to check them with a doctor, but we’ll get to that later. 

Breast pain ranges in its intensity; mostly it is mild and uncomfortable, but in some cases it can be severe and require intervention. Typically breast pain occurs alongside PMS symptoms before a period comes on, but some people experience it at other times in their cycle too. If your breast pain happens near your period, you’ll notice it goes away when you start to bleed. Ah, the relief. 

It’s those pesky hormones again. Fluctuating hormone levels are usually the reason for premenstrual breast pain. Estrogen and progesterone increase in the second half of the cycle, and estrogen peaks in the middle while progesterone levels rise in the week before menstruation. The estrogen enlarges the breast ducts, and the progesterone causes glands to swell, so with all that happening your breasts can get pretty sore. 

Generally, no. Breast pain is a pretty normal PMS symptom, but it’s good to know the signs of something else, just in case. It’s easy to jump to the conclusion of breast cancer whenever anything is painful or lumpy, but try not to worry as in the majority of cases it’s nothing. 

Any unexplained breast pain that doesn't leave after one or two menstrual cycles, that continues even after menopause, or that doesn't follow your regular hormone changes, should be checked by your GP to make sure it’s nothing to worry about. 

Get familiar with checking your breasts for lumps on a regular basis, as everyone’s breasts are different in size, shape and feel, and only you will know if and when yours change. Your breasts will feel different when you are ovulating to when you are menstruating, and remember it’s also normal for one breast to be larger than the other. If you have gone through the menopause, your breasts may feel softer and not as lumpy.

The NHS Breast Screening Programme recommends looking at your breasts and feeling each breast and armpit all the way up to your collarbone. Use a circular motion with a firm but smooth touch, and keep fingers flat and together. It’s sometimes easiest to do this and feel for any changes while you’re soaped up in the shower or bath. 

You’ll want to use light pressure for the skin and tissue just beneath, medium pressure for tissue in the middle, and firm pressure for the deeper tissue, where you should also be able to feel your ribcage. 

When looking at your breasts, do this in the mirror with your arms on your hips, and again with your arms raised up. Here are a few things to look out for:

Dimpled, puckered, or bulging skin on the breasts

A nipple that looks like it has changed position or been pushed inward instead of out

Fluid coming out of one or both nipples, which could be watery, milky, yellow or blood

What do I do if I think something is wrong?

It’s important that you don't panic about a lump, because most are completely normal. Breasts are naturally a little lumpy so it’s nothing out of the ordinary if you come across one that you don’t recognise. 

Still, you need to get any strange lumps checked over by your doctor, as they can do a more thorough examination, and if they think you need to have more tests done, they’ll talk you through the next steps such as a possible ultrasound or a mammogram.

Breast pain may also be caused by things like a clogged milk duct, mastitis (an infection that can come from breastfeeding), having larger, heavier breasts, having had breast surgery in the past, and taking hormone therapy medications. If you think your breast pain may be caused by something other than PMS symptoms, speak to your doctor and check them over. 

Sore boobs shouldn’t affect your daily life, so take steps to address any pain each month so you don’t need to change the way you live. You may want to try sleeping in a different position, getting fitted for a bra while you have swollen breasts to get the most comfortable option, buying a more supportive sports bra for working out, or speaking to your doctor about changing your birth control to see if this makes a difference. Your doctor may also suggest reducing your sodium, taking calcium supplements, or if you have intense pain, trying estrogen blockers or pain relievers to alleviate the discomfort. 

Got a question about breast pain or lumps? Feel free to reach out in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie; and if you come across a breast lump, don’t put off speaking to your GP to make sure everything is A-OK. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get organic tampons, hormonal supplements and more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, so that's one load off your mind about everything that normally goes on down there.

What's Up With Sore Boobs Before Your Period?

Got a vagina? What about a cervix? Or maybe you don’t have either but you’re curious to know what it all means? You’ve come to the right place. We hear and say these words a lot, but sometimes we use them interchangeably to mean pretty much the same thing; the bits inside that hole you stick your tampon in. But they’re actually two separate entities, and we’re here to break down the difference between the two. 

The word ‘vagina’ is usually used as a sort of umbrella term for all parts that make up the female genitalia, and more specifically people use it when they mean the vulva - the outer part of the sexual organs. The vulva includes the labia, the clitoris, the urethra, and the vaginal opening, which is where the vagina actually is. 

The vagina is the part where your period comes out, the part that you insert your tampon into, the part that stuff may go into during sex (penis, fingers, toys, etc.) and the part a baby comes out of during childbirth. It’s pretty multi-functional. 

The vagina is a muscular canal that expands and contracts as needed, with a squishy, flexible lining. This can produce natural lubrication during sex, and it connects to the uterus via the cervix. 

The cervix is the entryway to the uterus. It’s actually part of the uterus, but made up of different tissue, and is cylindrical in shape and around 2 inches long. You’ll find it at the very bottom of the uterus and the top of the vagina, and its role is to keep the uterus happy and healthy, to widen during childbirth so a baby can come out, and to allow menstrual blood from the uterus to enter the vagina. It’s also the gatekeeper for any sperm that want to swim up to the uterus to try fertilising an egg. 

When your GP is looking up at the cervix while doing your smear test, the part they see is called the ectocervix. It has an opening in the middle which is called the ‘external os’, and this opens when needed, such as when a baby comes out.

That magical cervical tube connects the uterus to the vagina, and this comes in handy each month when you have your period. The lining of your uterus thickens and - if an egg isn’t fertilised - eventually sheds in the form of tissue and blood, moving though your cervix and into your vagina. 

The cervix is super intuitive, and during pregnancy, it’s actually thick and closed. When it comes time to give birth, contractions draw the cervix up further into the uterus, and it thins and opens. This opening of the cervix is the part in the movies where doctors say “you’re dilated!”, and when it reaches about ten centimetres dilated, contractions help the baby move from the uterus through the cervix and down into the vagina, ready to be born. 

It can be hard to picture them when they’re inside your body. You may have experimented with looking at the opening of your vagina using a hand mirror, but if not, we recommend taking a look-see at what you’ve got going on down there. It’s not so easy to see inside the vagina, however, and the cervix is rarely seen - most of us will never even catch a glimpse. 

If we could see our full reproductive system outside of the body, we’d see that both the vagina and the cervix are generally cylinder shaped. Vagina shape varies from person to person though, with some more oval shaped. If you’re not squeamish, Women’s Health magazine has some fascinating (and rather graphic, be warned) photos of a cervix as it appears throughout the month - definitely check them out as they might surprise you. 

They pretty much take care of themselves. When it comes to the cervix, make sure you attend your cervical screening exam (every 3 years if you're aged 25-49, every 5 if you’re 50-64). This is where they test cells from your cervix to ensure everything is healthy in there. Many people put off doing this, but it can literally save your life as it catches any abnormal cells that can lead to cervical cancer - don’t skip this test! 

Other things you can do for a healthy cervix is to get your HPV vaccine which also protects against cervical cancer, practice safe sex, and get tested for STIs reguarly so you know everything is healthy. 

The vagina can be a tricky one, as there’s a bit more going on. You may be having sex, putting a tampon in there, and washing the outside (the vulva) with products in the shower. If you find you get any irritation or infections easily, you may want to try switching to a gentler product to clean - the vulva only, remember. The vagina is a self-cleaning organ, so always avoid cleaning the inside by douching or using products in there. It takes care of itself. 

If you want to treat your vagina to even more of a good time, you can also try switching to organic period care, using a natural lubricant that suits your skin sensitivity, and always wearing breathable cotton underwear for a happy vagina.

Got a question about your cervix or vagina? Let us know what’s on your mind over in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta@itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, so that's one load off your mind about everything going on down there!

The Differences Between A Vagina & A Cervix

Got a crime scene in your pants? Not to worry, we’re diving into all things period blood clots right here. What these little things actually are, why they happen, what you need to watch out for, and when to speak to a medical pro. Let’s get you all clot up. 

Firstly, there’s a difference between ‘normal’ menstrual clots and abnormal ones. We’ll talk more about abnormal clots below, but both kinds are jelly-like blobs of what seems like solid blood. Think a strawberry gummy sweet that’s been left to melt in the sun. Or one of those lumpy bits you find in the jam jar. 

They can be either bright red or darker in colour, and normal clots are usually no larger than a penny in size, and don’t come out very often. 

When you get your period, the uterine lining gets thicker throughout the month thanks to increased estrogen. This lining is made up of blood, muscle, tissue and other byproducts of the menstruation process.

When this mixture descends into the uterus to be expelled, your clever body knows it’s time to break down the thickened blood and tissue, so it releases anticoagulants that work to thin the mixture, in order for it to come out of the vagina easily. 

When you have a heavy flow, the body doesn’t always get a chance to go through this procedure before the blood comes out, and clots are the result. These aren’t dangerous, but there are some things to watch out for that may mean blood clots are of concern. 

Heavy periods are common, but passing particularly large clots frequently may mean these are actually ‘abnormal’, and it’s worth looking into this to ensure everything is fine, and there are no medical issues that must be addressed. You’ll want to look out for clots that:

Come with an abnormally heavy flow (if you’re changing your pad or tampon every 1-2 hours for a long time, this is heavy) 

Abnormal menstrual clots aren’t always something to freak out about, but in rare cases they can be a sign that something is not right and must be checked by a doctor. Here are a few conditions that could be the underlying cause of excessive menstrual clots:

These can cause blockages in the uterus that stop it from contracting normally. When this happens, it is unable to force blood out as it should, and so blood exits the vagina slowly, meaning it has more time to form larger clumps of tissue. 

Uterine polyps and fibroids are not cancerous, but they can cause other health conditions if not managed appropriately. They are typically made up of either endometrial or muscular tissue growing inside the uterine wall, which can cause lower back pain, pain during sex, bloating, fertility issues, and whaddaya know… blood clots. 

Endo is a big culprit of painful, heavy periods, when tissue from the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus where it shouldn’t be. This often causes a variety of symptoms, including pain and cramping in the pelvis and/or lower back, very heavy or painful periods, pain during sex, and fertility issues. Adenomyosis is known to cause similar issues, and can also result in menstrual clotting. 

If you have just given birth, your uterus may stay slightly larger than it was before you were pregnant, which will offer more space for period blood to pool in. When this happens, blood clots can occur. 

If you have a bleeding disorder, you may experience a heavy menstrual flow, as the coagulation that the uterine lining requires to stop menstrual blood doesn’t always work as it should. If you have a platelet function disorder or a condition such as Von Willebrand Disease (VWD), these could result in abnormally heavy menstruation and clotting. 

While abnormal blood clots are something to be checked with your GP sooner rather than later, they wouldn’t count as a medical emergency unless you find yourself in intense pain. 

Light bleeding is common during pregnancy, but should still be checked by a doctor. However, if you experience heavy bleeding and blood clots while pregnant, you should seek immediate medical help, as this could be a sign of miscarriage.

Speaking to your GP about clots can be difficult, as you’re not exactly able to show them what you are seeing or experiencing. When discussing blood clots, a healthcare professional might ask you questions about: 

How long your period normally lasts, and how heavy your flow is 

If you have noticed changes in your flow over time

If you use birth control or other medications, and what kind

Depending on their analysis of your situation, they may recommend a blood test to look at your thyroid function and any hormonal imbalances or anaemia, a pap test where cells are tested from the cervix to find out causes of heavy bleeding and/or clots, or an ultrasound to discover issues like fibroids or endometriosis. 

They may suggest further tests or surgical procedures, but this only happens in extreme cases, so don’t worry about going to your GP about clots - it’s always better to check! 

Got a question about period blood clots? We’re all ears! Ask away it in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, so that's one load off your mind about everything that's going on down there.

Period Blood Clots, A Friendly Guide

You know we love to blab about the things that nobody else talks about, and orgasms are certainly a rarely-mentioned topic. It can feel embarrassing to discuss such an intimate thing with anyone other than your partner, and that’s exactly why we’re demystifying orgasms for those with a vagina and clitoris here on the blog. Let’s talk about the big O! 

We hate to burst your bubble, but an orgasm doesn’t always involve the moaning and screaming that some movies will have you believe. Still, we’ll have what she’s having. 

An orgasm is usually an enjoyable experience, and though it feels different for everyone, in most cases it tends to be a slow buildup of pleasure followed by an enjoyable release. This could involve screaming and convulsing, or it could mean a quick exhale. Either way, as long as it’s enjoyable, that’s what matters. Don’t feel pressure to put on a show like in porn - real sex isn’t like that.

An orgasm happens when there is an increase in blood flow to the genitals, making them more sensitive. As arousal builds, your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate might increase, and you may notice muscles around your vagina contract and release. Your brain also releases oxytocin and dopamine, making you feel happy and close to your partner. 

There are multiple types of orgasm for those with a vagina; clitoral, vaginal, and - are you ready for this? - cervical. Yes, cervical orgasms. Let’s take a look at each one; 

Clitoral orgasm - This happens when the clitoris is directly or indirectly stimulated. When you or your partner rubs it the right way, you may experience a pleasant sensation that can build and eventually peak. 

Vaginal orgasm - Most people need clitoral stimulation to orgasm, but some can get there with only vaginal penetration, which can bring a more intense orgasm. With vaginal penetration, it’s possible to stimulate the G-spot and A-spot located on the front vaginal wall. 

Cervical orgasm - A full-body experience you’ll write about in your diary. Cervical stimulation requires deep penetration, but if done right it can result in what feels like waves of pleasure from head to toe that last quite a while. 

All three - It’s possible to stimulate all three areas at once in order to achieve a more powerful orgasm. And don’t forget the other erogenous zones that add to the experience, such as your nipples and anus. 

Orgasms are personal to everyone. If you’re unsure if what you felt was in fact an orgasm, then it probably wasn’t - in most cases, an orgasm is an intense, pleasurable feeling that you’re not likely to mistake for anything else.

Some physical signs of an orgasm include contracting pelvic floor muscles, muscle spasms, and sudden sensitivity around your genitals. But don’t overthink it - if it feels good, that’s what matters! 

Though rare, orgasms can be painful if you have a condition called dysorgasmia. If you experience painful orgasms, don’t just grin and bear it - speak to your GP.

Everyone has different turn-ons, so what works for someone else won’t necessarily work for you, and vice versa. Masturbation will give you more control as you’ll know what you like, but if you’re having sex with a partner, communicate what feels good and experiment with different ways to bring on an orgasm. 

For clitoral orgasms, rub the clitoris in different motions with your fingers or a vibrator until it starts to feel good (some lube might help), then apply pressure and repeat. For a vaginal orgasm, stimulate the G-spot or A-spot using fingers or a sex toy by applying pressure to the front wall of the vagina. For a cervical orgasm (probably the most difficult to come by, pun intended), a doggy-style position helps achieve the deeper penetration needed for this, and taking it slow for an intense buildup is also likely to help. By simultaneously using penetration and stimulating the clitoris, you can get the best of both worlds and have a combo orgasm. A comborgasm, if you will. 

We’d love to tell you that having an orgasm a day keeps the doctor away, but unfortunately scientists have never confirmed that orgasms can improve health in any way. That said, orgasms make us feel good, which comes with its own benefits like improving mood and relieving stress. One of the most likely health benefits of having an orgasm is that it releases the hormone prolactin, which is responsible for making you feel relaxed and sleepy. You don’t have to tell us twice… 

Many people experience orgasm problems; some physical, some psychological. Common causes include not feeling stimulated enough, stress over sex, past sexual trauma, relationship issues, hormone fluctuations (like during perimenopause), medications (SSRIs are a common culprit), and more. 

If you identify with any of these issues, speak to your GP. This may seem like an awkward conversation to have, but having an orgasm is natural, and you are completely justified in seeking advice on your sex life. They may be able to help, or will refer you to a doctor who specialises in sexual dysfunction.

Being unable to orgasm is common, and there are things you can try. Studies suggest intimate communication with your partner and a positive body image could do the trick. Masturbation also helps you discover what feels good, so experiment with this, use lubrication, and tell your partner what you like. 

Having trouble reaching the big O? Don’t worry, it’s not just you. If you have any questions about this, we’d love to help. You can ask away over in our private Facebook group, or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get organic tampons, eco pads, menstrual supplements (and more!) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox. That frees up some headspace for thinking about the more fun things you can get up to below the belt!

Female Orgasms Demystified

Have you had an IUD (intrauterine device) fitted? How did you find the experience? If you experienced pain, you wouldn’t be the first. In recent months, there have been long overdue conversations in the media about women’s pain, with IUD fittings at the heart of the matter. 

Doctors and those in the medical profession are incredible at what they do, but the fact remains; only you know your own pain threshold and levels of discomfort, and if many of those getting IUDs say the pain is intense, isn’t it about time we listened? 

How common are IUDs, and how painful is insertion?  

The UN states around 159 million women have had an IUD fitted (as of 2019), and it remains a convenient and effective method of birth control for those who want something long-term, who struggle to take the pill every day, or who need non-hormonal options. 

For some, the insertion procedure is perhaps a little uncomfortable, but nothing to write home about. In other cases, it can be intensely painful. With more voices weighing in on what an IUD fitting is like, BBC presenter Naga Munchetty called it “one of the most traumatic physical experiences I’ve had”. And it makes sense, since your cervix is designed to have a baby come out, not to have a device go in. It’s no wonder our bodies recoil in pain.

Why is it painful for some but not others? 

Studies have found women who have never given birth vaginally tend to rate their pain level higher (6 out of 10) than those who have (3 out of 10). If your procedure goes smoothly, you could be in and out in 5 minutes feeling barely a twinge. This is the case for many people, and we certainly don’t want to put anyone off of this effective birth control option. That said, pain management for the procedure is typically offered under the assumption that everyone will have a largely pain-free experience. Unfortunately this is not the case. 

Why aren’t we offered more pain relief? 

It can feel a little like gaslighting when - for example - the NHS website claims “It can be uncomfortable when the IUD is put in, but you can take painkillers after, if you need to.” Anyone who’s suffered from intense period cramps will know that sometimes popping a couple of paracetamol won’t always cut the mustard. 

You may experience a difficult insertion, multiple attempts at insertion, cervix spasms, or pain lasting several days after the procedure. In any case, this should not only be made aware to all who opt for an IUD, but they should also be offered adequate pain relief. 

A local anaesthetic injection around the cervix can reduce some pain and discomfort when having an IUD fitted, but it’s not typically offered. While more research is needed, studies suggest this could be helpful for those who have never given birth vaginally.

Women’s pain isn’t always taken seriously for IUD fittings, and for issues such as endometriosis, which research shows takes a staggering 7.5 years to diagnose, on average. 

As author Gabrielle Jackson writes in The Guardian, “Women weren’t included in clinical trials until the 1990s. While we make up 70% of chronic pain patients, 80% of pain medication has been tested only on men.” 

Historically most medical research has been done on males, so there’s room to discover more about women’s bodies, health conditions, and how to treat the ailments many of us live with every day. This has been found in studies on gender stereotypes and pain, where men’s complaints are usually taken more seriously.

Astoundingly, the Harvard blog states that gender biases in medicine can have serious consequences; a 2000 study found women are 7x more likely than men to be misdiagnosed and discharged during a heart attack. While research on disparities is ongoing, it certainly raises questions. 

If you have suffered a horrendous IUD insertion and were told it’s normal, or you live with chronic pain without diagnosis, know that you’re not being “over dramatic” or “emotional”. Communication is often key when you want to voice your concerns. Speak to your GP or nurse about the pain, its intensity, and how it affects your life. 

Getting an IUD and worried about pain? Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to ask questions, voice concerns, or ask to stop at any time. There are often pain relief options available that aren’t immediately offered, so ask the question to prompt a discussion. Doctors and nurses want to help you have a pain-free experience, so give them a chance to do this by effectively communicating your pain. 

A recent uptick in discussion around women’s pain in the media and medical community means we are beginning to take notice of this issue and address it. After her own distressing experience, Lucy Cohen - a small business owner in Wales - began a petition to address women’s pain during IUD procedures. She has had around 1500 people share their stories, and found that on a pain scale of 0-10, 43% of respondents rated their pain as a 7 or higher, describing it as “almost unbearable”, “excruciating”, and a few even likening the pain to childbirth or broken bones. 

The Change.org petition asks for better expectation management of IUD insertion and removal procedures, and more pain relief options as standard, such as gas and air, sedation and muscle relaxants. You can read more about Lucy’s work and sign the petition here. 

Have you experienced a painful IUD procedure? We’d love to hear about your experience, good or bad. Speak about it in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, so that's one load off your mind about everything that normally goes on down there.

IUD SOS: Why Isn't Women's Pain Taken Seriously?

Aww dang it. You thought you were period-free this week and now your clean white knickers have fallen victim to some surprise spotting. Don’t worry, it happens. But why? What is that mysterious pink blood and where does it come from? If you have questions, we have answers. Get your white pants in the wash pronto, and let’s take a look at all things spotting. 

Spotting, sometimes referred to as ‘intermenstrual bleeding’, is a little bit different to a period. It’s still blood coming from the vagina, but it happens outside of your usual period cycle and is normally a much smaller amount of blood. 

Spotting is lighter than a period. Sometimes you won’t even see it in your pants, you’ll just notice it on your loo roll when you wipe after going to the bathroom. In fact in many cases it won’t be worth using a tampon because there won’t be enough blood. A liner will do the trick here. You may also notice the blood that appears when you are ‘spotting’ is more pink in colour, as opposed to darker red. 

You are likely to know the difference, as your period tends to bring along PMS symptoms that you’ll recognise, such as bloating, cramping, sore breasts, tiredness, mood swings and so on - spotting doesn’t produce these symptoms. Your period will also likely follow a regular schedule so you can predict it, whereas spotting is less predictable as it turns up randomly in between periods. 

There are many possible causes for spotting; some totally normal and safe, others you may want to keep an eye on or speak to your GP about. Here are some of the most common reasons you may be experiencing spotting. 

Hormonal contraception - If you are taking hormonal contraception, you are more likely to experience spotting between periods, especially since irregular bleeding is rather common in the first few months of taking a new hormonal contraceptive. You may also see some spotting if you miss your combined pill or progestogen-only pill, or if you’re ill and throwing up or experiencing diarrhoea, as this can render some hormonal contraceptives ineffective. If you have a patch or vaginal ring and you experience spotting, you may need to get this checked by the GP to make sure it’s working as it should be. 

Ovulation - If you are ovulating, you may be one of around 3% of people with periods who experience ovulation spotting. Around this time in your cycle is when your ovary releases an egg, and sometimes there’s a little blood. It’s all good. It’s normal. 

Pregnancy or implantation bleeding - Pregnancy tends to mess with hormones and bodies in lots of crazy ways, and one that you might notice in the first trimester is some light spotting. This can be worrying for many, but it’s important to remember that light bleeding like this happens for about 15-25% of pregnant people, and doesn’t always mean there is anything wrong. Still, if you are worried about this it’s always best to go speak to your GP so they can put your mind at ease. 

Then there’s implantation bleeding, which happens when the fertilized egg embeds itself in the lining of the uterus - this can cause some light bleeding. If you start to experience only spotting and no period, this could be a sign of pregnancy.

Menopause and perimenopause - In the years leading up to menopause (called perimenopause), you may notice your periods become more irregular, and spotting may occur. This is normal, although once you have entered menopause, if you continue to experience bleeding or spotting you should contact your GP to check everything is healthy. 

Polycystic ovary syndrome - Polycystic ovary syndrome, also known as PCOS, is a condition that affects the release of eggs from the ovaries. Due to fluctuating and sometimes imbalanced hormones, PCOS sufferers can experience irregular periods, missed periods, and, you guessed it, spotting. 

Endometriosis - Endometriosis is a condition where tissue from the inside of the uterus grows outside of the uterus where it shouldn’t be, which can cause a whole lot of unwanted symptoms. Spotting is one of them. Although spotting isn’t painful in itself, other symptoms of endo might be, so don’t be afraid to speak to your doctor if it is affecting your daily life. 

STIs - Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea can sometimes cause spotting too, either between periods or after sex. If you experience other symptoms related to STIs like painful urination, vaginal discharge, itching or pelvic pain, you should check with your GP to make sure it’s all good down there. 

Broken skin - If you have had particularly rambunctious sex or haven’t used enough lubrication then this may have aggravated the skin inside the vagina and caused a small amount of fresh blood that looks similar to spotting. This will typically heal on its own, but if it causes discomfort or you are worried there is more blood than there should be, go speak to your GP for advice. 

Got a question about spotting? Speak about it in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, so that's one load off your mind about everything that might be going on down there.

Period Spotting: What Is It & Why Does It Happen?

*yawn* Do you experience PMS fatigue for several days each month? How about for a whole week? If that’s you, you’re probably sick of just riding it out and going about the same activities you normally would, but with only a quarter of the energy you had before. 

PMS and its causes are still somewhat of a mystery, but it is believed to be a result of hormone fluctuations; hormones go haywire, iron levels dip due to heavy bleeding, food cravings cause spikes in blood sugar, and sleep becomes disrupted… a recipe for PMS fatigue. This could mean a few days of yawning at your desk, or even an inability to get off the sofa due to extreme physical weakness. Whatever your PMS fatigue looks like, there are steps you can take to boost your energy. Here we go...

In many cases, lack of energy is directly caused by lack of sleep. PMS not only disrupts sleep, it can give some people full-blown insomnia, as fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels tend to affect the ability to fall and stay asleep, and the quality of sleep you get. A 2007 National Sleep Foundation poll found that 33% said they felt their sleep was disturbed during their menstrual cycle. 

If you’re one of a third of people who experience this, having a sleep routine could help. This includes screen-free time beforehand, similar bedtimes and waking times, and a cool temperature in the bedroom to regulate your slumber. Even if it’s disturbed, taking these steps can maximise the sleep you do get. And if all else fails, don’t be afraid to enjoy a midday nap. Catch any Zs you can, no matter the time of day. 

Food is so important for our energy levels. You’ve heard it a hundred times before, but when you’re experiencing that PMS this advice becomes all the more relevant. This means eating healthy, whole foods, upping your vegetable intake, reducing your junk food intake, avoiding alcohol, and saying no to added sugar, like fizzy drinks. Yes, even those marketed as energy drinks - they may provide a quick boost of energy but won’t solve the issue at hand. The same goes for caffeinated drinks like coffee. Drinking more water is always going to give you more benefits, so stick with the H2O. 

Any foods that cause your blood sugar to spike are likely to be followed by an energy crash, which will make you feel more fatigued in the long-run. If there’s ever a good time to improve your diet, it's when your PMS is at its worst. You probably won’t feel like it, but it’s going to make one of the biggest differences to your energy levels. 

Already eating healthily, but still having energy problems? There are lots of supplements and superfood powders out there that may help. Some exist specifically for pre-workout energy, some are for getting through that 3pm slump, and some are made specially for PMS symptoms - our very own Hormone Hero supplement is the one we’d always recommend to give you the sustained energy levels you need to get through your time of the month. 

This daily supplement contains 12 key, natural ingredients to support the hormonal symptoms of PMS, including bloating, digestion issues, and of course... fatigue. With powerful essentials like Iron, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12, this supplement is designed with your tiredness and fatigue in mind, and promises to kick it to the kerb. 

You’d be forgiven for thinking exercise is only going to make you more tired, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Firstly, a 2015 study found that a moderate amount of aerobic exercise during PMS symptoms can boost energy levels and improve concentration, so it’s already a useful tool for improving how you feel. 

Not only that, exercise in general tends to give people more energy, rather than depleting it. Sure, it can feel like a chore to get your leggings on and drag yourself to the gym, but once you’re there and smashing out some cardio (or going for a walk or doing yoga - any exercise can do the trick) you’ll notice your energy increases, even if your muscles feel a bit achy and tired. This improves focus, overall health, and knackers us out for better sleep.

If you’re feeling tired and lethargic, it’s probably your body’s way of telling you to rest. If you’re tracking your menstrual cycle, plan ahead to make sure that during your most tired PMS-y days you’re doing the bare minimum and taking time to yourself instead. This will ensure you emerge from your period cocoon with more energy to do the things you love.  

Remember, if fatigue persists even after you try the above tips, or it’s so severe that it interferes with daily life, speak to your GP to find out if anything else is affecting this, like an iron deficiency or thyroid disorder. Whatever the case, your GP may recommend medication (such as birth control) to regulate and manage PMS symptoms, and help boost your energy. 

Do you experience fatigue when you have PMS? How do you manage this? Tell us about your experience and ask any questions you have in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, which leaves more time each month for coordinating those energy boosting breaks.

PMS Fatigue: Why It Happens & How To Beat It

We’re laying all the slippery, slidey stuff out on the table. Yes, it’s time to talk lube, and whether you’ve used it before or you’re curious to try it for the first time, we’ve got the deets. Lube (or personal lubricant) can be useful for a number of reasons, so let’s slide on in there and see what’s what! 

Lube is generally handy to have around, the main reasons likely being for pleasure purposes, to manage vaginal dryness, and to make anal sex easier. 

Your vagina produces its own natural lubricant, which is a fluid that comes from the cervix and secretions from the Bartholin glands that keep the vagina lubricated. When you’re aroused, these glands create excess fluid to reduce friction. If your vagina is unable to produce its own natural lubricant then you may need a little help getting something in there, such as a tampon, fingers, a toy or a penis. Some common reasons for vaginal dryness are:

Taking certain contraception or antidepressants

Going through cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy

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Period Blood Clots, A Friendly Guide

Female Orgasms Demystified

IUD SOS: Why Isn't Women's Pain Taken Seriously?

Period Spotting: What Is It & Why Does It Happen?

PMS Fatigue: Why It Happens & How To Beat It

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