Welcome to the luteal phase of your cycle! If you’re keen to figure out the when, how and why behind the elusive phases of your menstrual cycle, you’re in the right place - we’re doing a deep dive on the blog and covering all the phases of your cycle, starting with the luteal phase. Let’s take a look at what’s happening in your body, what symptoms you may have, and how to optimise this time of the month…

Like all phases of your cycle, it’s all about your body preparing for pregnancy, and hormones play a big role in this. By now you probably know the basics; an egg develops and drops from the ovaries, and in response, the lining of the uterus thickens to create a healthy environment for a pregnancy to occur. 

If this doesn’t happen, the uterine lining says ‘see yah’ and sheds during the menstrual phase, which is where your period blood comes from. Then the cycle starts all over again. It goes menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal phase.

The luteal phase is the second half of the cycle which starts after ovulation and ends as soon as you get your period. The average length of this phase is 14 days, but it changes from person to person and throughout your life. Typically it lasts anywhere from 12 to 16 days, and is considered short if it lasts less than 10 days after ovulation ends. If you think this phase is short, it could be something called a Luteal Phase Defect - we’ll cover this later. 

What symptoms am I likely to experience? 

If you become pregnant during your cycle, your luteal phase will look a lot different, but assuming pregnancy doesn’t occur, you may experience the classic PMS symptoms we all love to hate, due to rapidly decreasing progesterone levels. 

PMS symptoms can include both emotional and physical issues like anxiety, low mood, irritability, food cravings, sleep issues, fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness and more. These symptoms are normal but you never need to suffer in silence if they’re affecting your daily life, so speak to your doctor to check everything is as it should be, get recommendations, and start any necessary treatments. 

How can I manage symptoms and optimise this phase?

There are things you can try to improve symptoms and optimise your luteal phase, such as managing cravings by eating healthy, high-quality proteins, and healthy fats that keep you fuller for longer, plus dark leafy veggies will support hormone metabolism. 

If your PMS symptoms are causing issues then exercise is probably the last thing from your mind, so do less strenuous activities instead, like yoga or walking. You can also try to incorporate stress-relieving activities, like meditation or a calming hobby to lower cortisol levels, and since blood sugar tends to be higher during this phase, try to avoid high-carb foods and simple sugars. 

What if my luteal phase seems shorter or longer than normal?

If your luteal phase seems loooooonger than what’s considered normal, you could have a hormonal imbalance like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), so speak to your doctor to make sure everything is a-OK. 

As mentioned above, your luteal phase is considered ‘short’ if you get your period less than 10 days after ovulation. This can indicate a Luteal Phase Defect (LPD) which can often lead to fertility problems as it causes the ovaries to produce less progesterone than usual. Also, the lining of the uterus doesn’t get the chance to thicken as it should, making it more difficult for a fertilised egg to grow there. 

It’s not exactly clear what causes LPDs to develop, but it’s believed lifestyle factors could be a cause. One study found people with a short luteal phase were more likely to be smokers, as it’s thought smoking can reduce the body’s oestrogen and progesterone production.

How do I know if I have a Luteal Phase Defect?

Luteal Phase Defects have been linked to health problems like endo, hyperprolactinemia, obesity, PCOS, thyroid disorders and more, so if you fall into any of these categories you may be at a higher risk of developing LPDs. 

Other than fertility issues, symptoms of a Luteal Phase Defect include more frequent periods and spotting between periods, which is also the case for a range of different cycle-related health issues which makes it more difficult to diagnose.

If your doctor suspects this is the issue, they might suggest a blood test to check hormone levels or an ultrasound to measure the thickness of your uterine lining. If they find you have a Luteal Phase Defect, fear not - this isn’t usually a problem unless you’re trying to get pregnant. An LPD can affect fertility, with one study stating it could be a result of “abnormal corpus luteum function associated with insufficient progesterone production”. 

Although relatively uncommon, Luteal Phase Defects are a notable cause of fertility issues, and it’s estimated they could be the cause for as many as 3-4% of couples struggling to conceive. If you have a Luteal Phase Defect, there are treatment options to encourage the ovaries to create more follicles, which you can discuss with your doctor. 

Are you currently in your luteal phase? If you’re not sure, you can use the Learn Your Phase questionnaire on our website to learn more about your cycle and optimise your health! And if you have any questions about the luteal phase, you can chat about it over in our Full Stop FB group, or get in touch directly on Instagram at @itsyoppie.

Don't forget our menstrual care subscription can be a good place to start for your organic tampons and PMS supplements as you can get them delivered easily & regularly through your letterbox.

Luteal Phase 101: What symptoms to expect, and how to manage them

PCOS: All the ways it affects your entire menstrual cycle

At Yoppie we like to think about the whooole menstrual cycle, not just the period. Sure, the bleed days are important - and a great indicator of menstrual health - but there’s so much more we can learn from the other stages in our cycle, so we’re exploring it all here on the blog. This time, the spotlight’s on PCOS - let’s take a look at how it affects your body at every stage of your cycle, and why this is important throughout the month. 

PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common condition affecting hormone levels in people with periods. Those with PCOS produce higher levels of androgen hormones, which can cause all sorts of symptoms like irregular periods, fertility issues, hair growth on the face and body (known as hirsutism), hair loss on the head, and skin issues such as acne. Due to its association with insulin resistance, it also has ties to type 2 diabetes. 

The main issues found in people with PCOS are irregular periods due to a lack of ovulation, and polycystic ovaries, meaning ovaries that become enlarged and contain fluid-filled sacs known as follicles. This explains the name polycystic ovaries, although ironically these aren’t actually cysts. 

How does it affect the menstruation phase? 

One of the main symptoms of PCOS is irregular periods or missed periods so, for some, it can feel like you don’t have a regular menstruation phase (bleed) every month. For those who do, they may experience very light periods or much heavier bleeding depending on a number of factors. 

Heavy bleeding is often caused by lower levels of the hormone progesterone which is associated with PCOS. You’ll know if you have heavy bleeding if your periods last for 7 days or more and you lose more blood than the average person - more than 80ml would be considered heavy. You can still have regular periods with PCOS, but the more common symptom is very light periods, irregular ones, or no periods at all. 

Nothing of note happens in the follicular phase when you have PCOS, but if you get irregular periods then you may still experience a period or spotting throughout all phases of your cycle. There has been some research into whether or not a prolonged follicular phase affects the outcome of people with PCOS-related fertility issues going through ovulation induction (OI) or intrauterine insemination (IUI) and although no negative impacts were found, more research is needed to find out exactly how PCOS affects this phase. 

How does it affect the ovulation phase? 

PCOS does affect the fertility of some (but not all) people with the condition, which can make it difficult to get pregnant. In people with PCOS, ovaries may become enlarged and contain follicles that surround the eggs, which can lead to the ovaries failing to function regularly. 

Since ovulation happens when an egg is released from the ovary, sometimes this may not happen on cue because either the ovaries are affected directly by the follicles or there are not enough of the necessary hormones to ovulate. This failure to ovulate can result in more follicles developing, causing higher levels of androgens and further symptoms. 

When it comes to fertility, having PCOS may cause a lack of ovulation but that doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant. Fertility issues in people with PCOS are thankfully very treatable and your doctor can discuss options that can increase your chances of conceiving. 

Again, PCOS tends to disrupt mostly the menstruation and ovulation phases of your cycle, but as we now know, symptoms can show up throughout the cycle so it’s possible for you to experience irregular periods or other symptoms during the luteal phase too. 

Studies suggest insulin resistance (very common in people with PCOS) may be the reason for low levels of the hormone progesterone during the luteal phase, which can also lead to symptoms. However, there are treatment options that can help balance this, such as metformin - you can read our blog on how metformin is used to treat PCOS, here. 

Since PCOS is a hormonal issue and hormones continue to fluctuate throughout the month, symptoms can (and often do) occur throughout the month too. Irregular periods are common with PCOS, but if this is something you experience do keep in mind that you don’t always have to put up with it - you can speak to your GP. 

If your symptoms or fertility issues are becoming frustrating, your doctor can advise on treatment options that can improve your symptoms and quality of life. Remember, PCOS is a very common and treatable condition so there’s no harm in reaching out to see if there are any options that might help. 

Fancy finding out what phase of your cycle you’re currently in? Our website has a short Learn Your Phase questionnaire to help you learn more about your cycle. We love to help people tackle the symptoms associated with the entire cycle - not just the bleed days - so whatever your symptoms or cycle goals are, we’ve got you. 

Do you have a question about PCOS? You can ask over in our Full Stop FB group, or get in touch directly on IG at @itsyoppie - our team is always keen to find you the right answer. Don't forget that our personalised menstrual cycle subscription box can get organic tampons, PCOS Supplements, and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, to give you just a bit more peace of mind each cycle.

We’re done with just periods. Don’t get us wrong; we still love to talk about those bleed days, but we know there’s so much more to your menstrual cycle each month than just the period. From your follicular phase to your luteal phase and beyond, we’re looking at endometriosis, how it affects your body at every stage of your cycle, and why we should all be considering our menstrual health throughout the month. 

To summarise a pretty complicated issue; endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the tissue lining the inside of the uterus starts to grow outside the uterus, mainly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, inside the pelvis and sometimes beyond. It’s the second most common gynaecological condition here in the UK, affecting an estimated 1.5 million people. 

Although endometriosis is known for its primary symptom - abdominal pain - it is also thought to impact the length of the menstrual cycle too, making the bleed last longer. People with endo may find their overall cycles become shorter too, with their next period starting sooner than the average 28-day cycle. 

How does endometriosis affect the menstruation phase? 

This phase is, for most people, when endometriosis has the biggest impact. Since the tissue growing outside the uterus reacts in the same way as the kind inside (thickening, then breaking down) this can cause anything from mild discomfort to severe pain, depending on the severity of your endo. This is because unlike tissue inside the uterus, it has nowhere to go when it breaks down. 

Many endo sufferers will experience longer-than-average periods, sometimes lasting more than 7 days, with spotting between periods also common. Periods can also be heavier than the average, and you may find you need to change pads or tampons after less than 2 hours. Endo symptoms are usually at their worst in the menstruation phase, and these can include:

Excessive menstrual cramps in the abdomen

Gastrointestinal issues like diarrhoea, constipation and nausea

How does endometriosis affect the follicular phase?

For some, endometriosis only produces symptoms and pain around the time of their period, but for others it doesn’t take a break! Regardless of where it grows in the body, endometrial tissue gets triggered by fluctuating hormones, and during the follicular phase, oestrogen is what causes it to react, specifically oestradiol. 

This hormone increases during the first two weeks of your cycle, which is what influences the thickening of the endometrium in normal, healthy tissue. Unfortunately it also causes the misplaced tissue outside the uterus to grow, thus causing endo pain.

How does endometriosis affect the ovulation phase? 

During the ovulation phase, people with endometriosis may experience some bleeding and pain, but the main issue during this phase is endo’s impact on fertility. Studies have found 30-50% of people with endometriosis are unable to get pregnant - there may be a few reasons for this. 

For a pregnancy to happen, the egg must first be released from the ovary, make its way down the fallopian tube, be fertilised by a sperm cell, fix itself to the lining of the uterus, and start to grow - a lot of steps for one little egg to get through, and endo can affect almost all of them. Endometriosis can affect the egg quality, scar the fallopian tubes, distort the anatomy of the pelvis and cause inflammation there, cause hormones to fluctuate and affect the environment of the egg, impair implantation of a pregnancy, and more. 

All of these possibilities make it more difficult for a person with endometriosis to become pregnant, but not impossible! So if you are trying to get pregnant, know that there are many options that can help - speak to your doctor to find out more. 

How does endometriosis affect the luteal phase? 

In the final phase of the cycle, pain sometimes begins before typical period cramps do, but again this depends, as your experience with endo won’t be the same as others with the condition. In the luteal phase, endometrial tissue begins to create microscopic glandular structures due to the introduction of progesterone, which can cause more endometrial tissue to grow, leading to bloating, pelvic discomfort, or pain before your next period.

But wait… if the tissue is triggered by hormones during the menstruation phase, why does it affect the rest of my cycle?

Good question! When endo causes endometriomas to form, this can lead to the formation of scar tissue and adhesions (bands of fibrous tissue) that can cause tissues and organs inside the pelvis to stick together - as you can imagine, this can cause a whole mess of pain! It can also lead to you developing symptoms throughout your cycle, not just during the bleed - although they do tend to get worse during your period. 

The best way to level out hormones and reduce some of the symptoms throughout the month is to start taking hormonal contraception in order to manage hormone levels. This can cause a reduction in oestrogen which can stop new lesions forming, and make any heavy, long periods lighter and more regular. Hello stress-free cycle! 

Want to know what phase you’re currently in? Head over to our website and take the short Learn Your Phase questionnaire to find out. We’re committed to helping you tackle the symptoms of every phase of your cycle, not just the bleed days. Whatever your symptoms or underlying conditions, we can help. And if you’ve got a question about endometriosis or the phases of your cycle, we’re all ears! Ask in our Full Stop FB group, or get in touch directly on IG at @itsyoppie - we’re always happy to help. 

How Does Endometriosis Affect Your Menstrual Cycle?

This week is BIG for me and for Yoppie. We are continuing our mission to support women on their menstrual healthcare journey as we launch two new condition targeted supplements, which we believe are some of the most comprehensive on the market. With millions of women suffering with menstrual health conditions every day, I thought it was important to share my journey…  

On the 14th of April my son Maxim turned 3 years old and those 3 years just flew by. Randomly it also took around 3 years to conceive Maxim, but those 36 months were by far the longest of my life. I remember every month wishing for that positive pregnancy test, yet every single month a negative test came back. For everyone that is on their baby journey, I am sure you can relate - you literally get addicted to using ovulation and pregnancy tests. On the last day of my cycle I would buy one of those “early” tests, wake up early in the morning and pee with the hope of it returning two lines. I already knew how I would surprise my husband, but that surprise plan was never needed. 

In late 2017, after 2 years into our pregnancy journey, I saw a gynaecologist to help get a better understanding of my fertility. He ran some hormone tests and a transvaginal ultrasound. We spoke about my history and I shared my cycle data from the various apps I was using at the time. He diagnosed me with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and prescribed me clomid. 

I had no idea what PCOS was and turned to google to learn about it. How come we always need to turn to “doctor google” when it comes to these things? After doing my own research it was clear to me that I had been experiencing PCOS symptoms for many years. 

I've been tracking my cycles for years, but never did the app tell me “your symptoms are telling us that you might have PCOS.. would you like to learn more about it?”

Millions of women suffer with menstrual health conditions

What was clear to me was that I was not alone! PCOS is a very common metabolic, hormone and reproductive disorder that affects 1 in 10 women. It is a disorder that can impact multiple aspects of our lives, not just fertility. During my research into PCOS I also discovered more about Endometriosis, a disorder that can take around 7.5 years to diagnose. 

Endometriosis is a chronic disease that is characterized by severe pain which can make everyday life miserable.  This pain is caused by inflammation and scarring from endometrial tissue similar to that in the womb growing elsewhere in the body.  This tissue breaks down and bleeds just like the lining of the womb during each menstrual cycle. What I didn’t know was how it affects other systems in the body such as immune health, digestive health and liver function. 

Fast forward to 2022, in a study we did here at Yoppie we found that over a quarter of women suffer from menstrual health issues, such as severe PMS symptoms, PCOS and Endometriosis having the most detrimental impact on social lives, our relationships and our professional lives. Worryingly, almost half (48%) stated that they hadn’t been able to get the medical help required with just 37% using additional resources such as supplements or Femtech platforms to better manage their menstrual health. 

Although we recognise there is no cure for these conditions, dietary changes and lifestyle choices as well as food supplementation, can help alleviate some symptoms. I am therefore excited to share with you our new range of supplements that target the multiple symptoms of PCOS & Endometriosis. They were born out of conversation, my personal experience with PCOS and the need for more accessible and researched solutions. With these products, I hope more people that suffer with these conditions will get a high quality supplement with ingredients backed by science, that have been carefully formulated by expert women’s health nutritionist, Shona Wilkinson.  These all-in-one symptom targeted solutions, we hope will make a difference to the lives of many.

We believe that turning to the contraceptive pill should not be the only way of managing hormonal imbalances or your menstrual health condition. We have challenged the norm, turned to science and innovation with these supplements and will continue to provide education and resources that aim to help make living with these conditions easier.

You can learn more about Yoppie's PCOS & Endometriosis condition supplements here. 

You can be an advocate of your own menstrual health and articles on these conditions on our scientifically checked Full Stop blog can be a good place to start. However, it is important to consult your doctor to identify what you’re suffering from, whether that’s Endometriosis, PCOS, or something else. Recording your symptoms should be the first step, followed by a trip to your GP to start the conversation.

Got a question about menstrual health conditions? Get in touch with us directly on Instagram at @itsyoppie or email hello@yoppie.com. Don't forget our menstrual care subscription can be a good place to start for your organic tampons and supplements for PCOS or supplements for Endometriosis as you can get them delivered easily & regularly through your letterbox. 

Menstrual health condition support, finally.

Have you recently been diagnosed with PMDD, or think you should be? It remains a mysterious condition that not many people understand, so other than speaking to your GP it can be difficult to find the info you need to decide on the best treatment. Let’s take a look at what diagnosis looks like, and some treatment options you may like to try at home, from daily vitamins to better sleep and everything in between. Here we go…

PMDD stands for premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and is essentially a severe form of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) that encompasses a range of emotional and physical symptoms such as anxiety, depression, headaches, cramping, and more. Similarly to PMS, it tends to arrive in the week or two before your period, called the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle. 

While PMS symptoms are common, PMDD is less so. But the symptoms are much worse and can have a huge impact on daily life, making it difficult or impossible to work, have a normal social life, and maintain a healthy relationship. In extreme cases, it can lead to suicidal thoughts. 

Remember, if you are experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, Samaritans is available to help 24/7 by calling the number 116 123, or you can text SHOUT to 85258. Don’t keep it to yourself, talk to someone and make a plan to get the help you need. 

PMDD isn’t typically something you can ride out alone, so speaking to your doctor and getting the relevant diagnosis can start you on the path to feeling better and managing the symptoms each month. Although there is no specific medication or treatment for PMDD, your doctor may recommend the following to help ease symptoms: 

Anti-depressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI)

Regular therapy such as CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy)

Supplements like vitamin B6, calcium or magnesium 

One or several of these undertaken for a time and monitored by your doctor can help you feel better in the long term and handle the symptoms more effectively when they do arise. 

If you’d rather not add medications into the mix, there are a few lifestyle changes that are often recommended to people experiencing the worst symptoms of PMDD. These include:

Meditation or yoga - these activities can help lower anxiety levels in order to make other symptoms and daily routines more manageable, and even as little as 10 minutes a day can make a difference 

A regular exercise routine - the benefits of exercise can’t be overstated, and a regular routine of moving your body can improve physical symptoms and mood. One 2013 study found improvements in PMS symptoms can be seen within the first 8 weeks

Improving your sleep habits - it is well-documented in studies that people with PMDD suffer from a lack of sleep, so making a point of improving your sleep hygiene can have a big impact. This could mean making your room cooler in the evenings, taking an hour of screen-free time before bed, or showering in the evening (yes, this helps!)

Improving your diet - cutting out excess alcohol, caffeine and junk food with high salt, sugar and carbs can have as big an impact as introducing nutrient-rich foods into your diet. Spices like turmeric and saffron have been found to have mood-boosting properties, and eating plenty of fruits and veggies can also help. Make sure you get enough vitamin D in your diet and stick to whole foods as much as possible

Herbal remedies - many people around the world reach for herbal remedies such as evening primrose oil, ginkgo and St. John’s wort, and it doesn’t hurt to give these a try to see if they help your situation. You could also try one of Yoppie's own natural supplements, such as Mood Food, which can help reduce symptoms

Talking to people about your PMDD can feel daunting at first, as it’s difficult to explain and can sometimes be met with comments like ‘it’s just bad PMS’ when you know it’s a lot more than that. This anonymous quote on Mind.co.uk explains it very well:

"The best way to describe it is that, once a month, I pressed my own self-destruct button and literally let my (normally very happy and satisfying) life implode around me. Then when the dark thoughts lifted and cleared, I spent the next 2 weeks trying to pick up the pieces."

Carefully decide who in your life you want to open up to and start a conversation about it so they understand what you’re going through and can help you in the best way when those feelings start to come up. You shouldn’t need to feel embarrassed or have to justify what’s happening each month, so talking about it in advance can alleviate some of the guilt that tends to come when you have to cancel plans, and will make you feel much better long term.

Even if you choose to stick to natural remedies to improve your PMDD, you should speak to your doctor to discuss symptoms and check there is nothing underlying they need to know about. You don’t haved to take any of the medications or treatment options they recommend, but it’s always good to know about them so you can make an informed decision. 

Do you suffer from PMDD? We know it can be a difficult condition to live with as it’s still so poorly understood, so if you feel it would help to open up to others with their own menstrual cycle concerns, our Full Stop FB group is a great place to start. You can also reach out to us directly on Instagram at @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised menstrual cycle subscription box can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, to give you just a bit more peace of mind each cycle.

PMDD Treatment Options & Home Care Tips

Endometriosis and PCOS are two of our most-talked-about conditions here on the Full Stop blog. Since they have a few overlapping symptoms and can be difficult to diagnose, we thought it was about time we measured these two conditions up against each other to see what they have in common, how they differ, how to tell which one you have, and find out if it’s possible to have both at once. Here we go…  

What are the symptoms of endometriosis? 

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the kind lining the inside of the uterus starts to grow outside where it’s not supposed to, particularly on the ovaries, fallopian tubes and/or inside the pelvis. This tissue acts the same as the kind inside the uterus, so when your hormones go through the menstrual cycle each month, it thickens and breaks down. 

When this happens inside the uterus, it exits through the cervix (your period) and it’s no problem. But when it happens outside the uterus it has nowhere to go, so it sticks around and causes anything from mild discomfort to severe pain, as well as a host of other issues. 

PCOS stands for polycystic ovary syndrome, and it means the ovaries are producing an abnormal amount of androgen hormones. The name polycystic ovary syndrome is due to the small fluid-filled sacs (cysts) that form in the ovaries, causing symptoms like irregular periods, excess body hair (known as hirsutism), weight gain, acne or oily skin, baldness or thinning hair, fertility issues, and more. It has ties to type 2 diabetes as the majority of people with PCOS have insulin resistance. 

What do PCOS and Endometriosis have in common? 

A few things, actually! The overlapping symptoms of both endo and PCOS include heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods or irregular periods, pelvic pain, and difficulty getting pregnant. If you are experiencing these symptoms alone, it can be very difficult to differentiate between the two. 

Both are also common among people with periods; one 2018 study found that endometriosis affects 10-15% of people with periods, and as many as 70% of those with chronic pelvic pain. Similarly, PCOS was found in a 2017 study to affect around 5-20% of people with periods of childbearing age, and around 80% of people experiencing fertility issues. 

How are PCOS and Endometriosis different?

The main characteristics of both conditions are what give them away and stop them being mistaken for each other. The primary symptom of endometriosis is abdominal pain each month around the time of your period, while PCOS has a few visible tell-tale signs such as excess body hair growth and acne. Although these symptoms won’t affect everyone (making it a little harder to diagnose), in many cases they will be present in some form and this can indicate which condition you have. 

The causes of both conditions are also very different. Most people with PCOS are thought to have an insulin resistance problem, while the cause of endometriosis remains a bit of a mystery. One theory that’s thought to potentially cause both is inflammation, which has been linked to both conditions in various studies. 

Is it possible to have both endometriosis and PCOS at the same time? 

Yes, unfortunately so! Although it’s highly unfair, it does seem to be possible to suffer from both conditions at once. One 2015 study found people with PCOS are actually more likely to be diagnosed with endometriosis too, and a 2011 study found the high androgen levels and insulin in people with PCOS could increase levels of oestradiol (a type of oestrogen), which could increase the risk of endometriosis. 

How are PCOS and Endometriosis diagnosed? 

Whether or not your GP suspects which condition you have, they will likely do some tests to find out for sure. For both conditions, diagnosis often involves discussing your medical and family history, doing a pelvic exam to check for any growths, carrying out an imaging test like an ultrasound or MRI, and taking blood to find abnormal hormone levels or inflammatory markers. If endo is suspected, a procedure called a laparoscopy may be required, where a surgeon makes a small incision to check for and remove abnormal tissue growth.

Treatment of both conditions can be similar, but in some cases it can look very different. Treatments that may be offered in both cases include being put on birth control to regulate hormones, and lifestyle changes to ease symptoms such as getting into an exercise routine and sticking to a healthy, balanced diet. 

For endometriosis, you may be recommended to take pain medication or undergo surgical procedures to remove the affected tissue, while with PCOS you may be given medication to help specifically with hair loss, body hair growth, or acne symptoms. 

If you have the symptoms of either endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, it’s definitely best to speak to your doctor, particularly if these symptoms are affecting your daily life. Even if they are not, ignoring either condition can cause worse symptoms and health issues down the line, so make sure you get checked and start the recommended treatment plan in order to stay as healthy as possible. 

Got a question about endometriosis or PCOS? We’d love to help you find the answers you need. Reach out any time in our Full Stop FB group, or get in touch with us directly on Instagram at @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised menstrual care subscription can get organic tampons and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, to help keep at least some of that uterus-related pain under control each month.

PCOS vs Endometriosis: Which Do You Have?

Period hasn’t shown up? Feeling a little nauseous? Super fatigued? Sometimes figuring out if you’re pregnant or just experiencing PMS symptoms can be difficult, so let’s decipher the signs by looking at the overlapping symptoms of pregnancy and PMS, how you can tell them apart, and what to do if you think you might be pregnant. 

Hold the phone! Whether you’re currently trying to get pregnant and you’re excited about the prospect, or you’re actively trying to avoid pregnancy and the thought is more than a little scary, let’s discuss what the actual signs of pregnancy are before we jump in because it’s not always like it is in the movies - we’re looking at you Katherine Heigl in Knocked Up! Common pregnancy symptoms include: 

A missed period (usually the earliest sign)

A very light period called implantation bleeding in the first few weeks of pregnancy 

Nausea or sickness, known as morning sickness, which often starts at around 4-6 weeks. Although it’s known as morning sickness, it can occur at any time

Tiredness that makes you feel anything from a little lethargic to full-blown exhausted, particularly in the first 12 weeks

Breast tenderness, soreness or changes including getting bigger, tingling, veins becoming more visible, and nipples darkening

Frequent urination, constipation or excess vaginal discharge

Unusual food cravings, avoiding foods you used to enjoy, having a strange taste in your mouth and a more sensitive sense of smell 

Mood changes due to fluctuating hormones  

Some lesser-known symptoms include bloating, cramping, and nasal congestion due to increased blood production causing mucous membranes in the nose to swell. Keep in mind, although many of these symptoms do occur in early pregnancy, you may not experience all of them or any of them. You may also experience these symptoms and not be pregnant, so let’s look at the ones that overlap with PMS symptoms. 

What PMS symptoms are similar to pregnancy?

In short… most of them! Unfortunately, it can be hard to differentiate between early pregnancy and PMS, because during PMS your body is essentially preparing itself for growing a fetus. Whether this does or does not happen doesn’t matter, and the body reacts in a similar way in both cases. Here are some PMS symptoms that imitate early pregnancy:

Mood swings such as anxiety, irritability or depression 

Changes in appetite, including increased food cravings

Changes in sleeping patterns that cause fatigue 

Constipation and changed bathroom habits 

I’m still not sure if I’m pregnant or if it's just PMS...

The easiest way to find out once and for all if you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test. You can take a test at any time, but keep in mind the result may not show up properly until a few weeks in. If you continue to get a negative result on the test (this is possible, since tests are not always accurate) but you suspect you are pregnant, see your doctor for a blood test which can give an earlier and more accurate result than a home test. 

If you find out you’re pregnant on a home test, book an appointment with your GP as soon as possible to get your health checked and find out more. No matter what your decision is regarding the pregnancy, your doctor can talk you through the next steps. 

My period is late. How long do I wait before I test? 

Pregnancy tests measure a hormone called human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), which starts to build up in the body from the moment of conception. It usually takes some time for enough of this hormone to build up in your system before it will show up on a test, so although you can test any time, sometimes it’s more accurate to wait until around 3-4 weeks from the first day of your last period. 

My PMS has me thinking I’m pregnant every month! What can I do to ease symptoms? 

There are a number of things you can try to ease PMS symptoms so they don’t control your life each month. Here are just a few:

Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Sticking to whole foods and avoiding junk food, caffeine and alcohol can help keep your hormones balanced and your energy levels intact 

Stick to an exercise schedule. This doesn’t need to be a rigorous routine, just moving your body can help with symptoms like bloating, cramping and mood swings

Try supplements. Certain supplements can help ease PMS symptoms, both physical and emotional. Yoppie’s range is a good place to start!

Improve your sleep. This can help with fatigue symptoms but to be honest, better sleep can improve your whole life! 

Drink more! Staying hydrated can help with bloating and make cramping less severe

Heat pads or a hot water bottle. A warm bath also helps to ease painful cramps 

CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) or other therapy styles. This helps you manage mental and emotional PMS symptoms and teaches coping strategies 

Got a question about pregnancy, PMS symptoms, or something else? We’d love to help you find the answer! Our team are always on hand to help, and you can reach out in our Full Stop FB group, or get in touch with us directly on Instagram at @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised menstrual cycle subscription box can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, to give you just a bit more peace of mind each cycle.

PMS Or Pregnancy: Help! What's Happening?

Periods can be pretty unpredictable. They’re long, they’re short, they’re heavy, they’re light… and of course they just have to arrive when you have plans to wear a bikini in summer! Let’s take a look at what counts as an irregular period, what might be going on inside your body, and if/when to see a doctor about it. 

An irregular period does what it says on the tin; it shows up at random moments and doesn’t follow a clear pattern. Having irregular periods means you have a cycle that’s longer or shorter than the average 21-35 day cycle, your periods are heavier or lighter than the average, or you experience odd period-related symptoms. For the purposes of this article, let’s look specifically at what’s going on if your cycle is longer or shorter than the norm. 

Your menstrual cycle varies throughout your life, but if you’re the kind of person whose trusty period arrives like clockwork every month, and you can plan ahead by marking it up in your calendar, then you’re nailing life. If, however, you’re like the 14-25% of people with periods who experience an irregular cycle for one reason or another, and you can’t predict when (or if) your period will come, then you’re in the right place. 

If you’ve spent time on the Yoppie blog, you’ll know that just about every possible cycle-related condition, as well as a few non-cycle-related ones, seem to cause irregular periods. They’re one of the first bodily functions to throw their hands up and say “nope, we’re out!” at the first sign of something being wrong. 

That’s not to say if you have irregular periods there’s anything wrong with you, as it can often be something as simple as going through puberty that’s causing your period to act differently. While a regular period is handy for many and a good indicator that it’s time to pay attention to your body, it can also be frustrating for doctors as just about everyone (*ahem*, 14-25%) experiences irregular periods at some point in life. 

Is it “normal” to have irregular periods?

No period can be defined as “normal” since they’re different for each person, so it’s all about knowing what’s “normal” for YOU. If you’ve always had irregular periods then there’s probably nothing to worry about. However, if your period has always been regular and suddenly changes, this could indicate anything from being run-down and stressed, to a cycle-related condition (more on those later). One of the first things people assume if their period doesn’t arrive on time is pregnancy, and although this can be true, it’s best to take a test to make sure, as periods can be late for many reasons and you may not be pregnant. 

It’s also worth noting different types of birth control have a big impact on how regular your period is, so if you have recently switched to a different kind of birth control this could be what’s causing the change and you may need a few more months for your body to get used to the new hormones and settle into a routine. 

What if irregular periods mean something serious? 

Irregular periods on their own typically aren’t considered serious, so try not to worry. If you have other symptoms alongside this, see your doctor to find out what might be going on and to make sure everything is OK. A few possible conditions that can cause irregular periods are listed below, but again, there’s no reason to believe you definitely have one if your only symptom is an irregular period: 

Stress and lifestyle factors - travel, illness or other disruptions of routine 

Gaining or losing a lot of weight, dieting, or making changes to your exercise routine

Using new birth control, or coming off birth control 

Uterine polyps or fibroids - small noncancerous growths in the lining of the uterus

Certain medications - steroids, anticoagulant drugs (blood thinners) and more

Certain medical conditions - bleeding disorders, under/overactive thyroid gland or pituitary disorders that affect hormonal balance

Complications related to pregnancy, such as miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy

(And in rare cases…) uterine cancer or cervical cancer

Should I see my doctor about irregular periods?

In short, if you’re worried about any symptoms - whether they relate to your menstrual cycle or something else - then there’s no harm in booking an appointment with your GP to check what’s going on and make sure everything’s OK. 

If your period is irregular, it’s unfortunately not possible to force it into a routine right away. Sometimes lifestyle changes like getting into a consistent daily routine and eating a balanced diet can help, or if your doctor has diagnosed you with one of the conditions mentioned above, you may have a treatment plan that can lead to a more regular cycle with time. 

One of the easiest ways to get your period onto a schedule is to start birth control pills, as many of these are taken every day with a seven day ‘rest period’ where you will bleed. Although this option may not be for everyone, starting these pills can lead to a more regular, predictable period when taken for a few months. 

Do you have irregular periods? Do you know why?? We’re always curious to know how you find your cycle, so get in touch to chat with others in our Full Stop FB group, or if you have any questions you’d like us to answer, reach out on Instagram at @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalisedmenstrual care subscription can get organic tampons, PMS supplements, and much more, delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox at a frequency you choose, to make it a bit easier to go with your flow.

Why Do I Have Irregular Periods?

Endometriosis is, thankfully, getting more airtime these days, with more people finally getting the diagnosis they should have had years earlier. Adenomyosis isn’t quite as well-known, and so the overlap in symptoms of these two conditions can sometimes cause confusion. Let’s compare the two and see what they have in common, how they’re different, how to tell which you have, and answer the question… could you have both?! Let’s see… 

If you’ve spent any time here on the Full Stop blog, you’ll probably know alllll about endo by now, but let’s do a quick recap: Endometriosis is a condition where tissue (similar to the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus) grows outside the uterus on the ovaries, fallopian tubes and/or inside the pelvis and more. This tissue reacts in the same way the tissue inside your uterus does each month; thickens during your cycle and breaks down. Unlike the kind that grows in the uterus, this tissue has nowhere to go and can cause mild to severe pain. 

This one is a) a mouthful! And b) not as commonly known. Adenomyosis is a separate condition where the inner lining of the uterus breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus, either in just one spot or at various points. As you can imagine, this causes some issues! Symptoms include cramps, abdominal pressure, bloating, heavy periods, and more. 

What do adenomyosis and endometriosis have in common?

Firstly, it’s important to note that neither of these conditions is life-threatening, although this doesn’t stop them being incredibly painful, irritating, and affecting daily life. 

Some of the symptoms are pretty similar, with the main similarity being that both conditions tend to cause painful periods, known as dysmenorrhea. Other symptoms they have in common are pelvic pain, pain during sex, irregular or abnormal bleeding, and fertility issues. 

How are adenomyosis and endometriosis different?

People often need to be checked by a doctor to know which one they have, as so many symptoms overlap with these two conditions. However, some notable endometriosis characteristics that could help you identify this one are painful bowel movements and/or urination, fatigue, and nausea and/or diarrhoea during your period. If you have these additional symptoms, then it’s possible you have endo rather than adenomyosis. 

How do I know if I have adenomyosis or endometriosis?

It’s already notoriously difficult to diagnose endometriosis, meaning this overlap in symptoms could lead to the wrong diagnosis before the right one. When diagnosing endometriosis, your doctor will usually do a pelvic exam to feel for cysts, an ultrasound to see what’s going on inside, or a procedure called a laparoscopy, where a surgeon makes a few small incisions (under general anaesthesia) and inserts a tiny camera and instruments to look for signs of endo and, if found, remove it. 

The path to diagnosing adenomyosis is pretty similar in the initial stages, starting with a pelvic exam. It’s thought to be difficult to diagnose adenomyosis without a hysterectomy, as an in-depth examination of the uterus is needed. Understandably, most people don’t want this, so often an ultrasound is done to rule out other causes. Since adenomyosis looks similar to uterine fibroids on ultrasound, an MRI or biopsy may be recommended instead. 

Is it possible to have both adenomyosis and endometriosis?

These two conditions affect different parts of the uterus, and require different treatments, but it is thought that yes, you can have both of these conditions simultaneously. One 2017 study of 300 people diagnosed with adenomyosis found that 42.3% also had endometriosis. 

What are my risk factors for both conditions?

Considering how similar the symptoms of these two conditions are, the risk factors are surprisingly different. Your chances of getting endometriosis increase if you:

Experience heavy periods that last over 7 days

Meanwhile, your chances of getting adenomyosis increase if you:

How do I make sure I get the right treatment? 

Both endo and adenomyosis don’t require treatment unless they’re causing problems in daily life, but if they are, speak to your doctor about treatment options. In some cases, both conditions can be managed with pain medications or hormonal medicines like birth control pills, and treatment for both can be anything from over-the-counter medications to surgery. You may be asked about medical history, desire for children, severity/frequency of pain, and recommended treatment based on age and personal circumstances. 

In the case of endometriosis, a laparoscopy is often advised, while in suspected adenomyosis cases your doctor may recommend this, an endometrial ablation (where a laser destroys the lining of the uterus), or a number of other surgeries to fix the problem (or at least reduce symptoms). 

Ultimately, your doctor can help you identify what you’re suffering from, whether that’s endo, adenomyosis, or something else. Recording your symptoms is usually the best place to begin, followed by a trip to your GP to start the conversation and try potential treatments. 

Got a question about endometriosis or adenomyosis? Ask us over in our Full Stop FB group, or get in touch with us directly on Instagram at @itsyoppie and we’ll be happy to help! Don't forget that our personalised menstrual care subscription can get organic tampons, supplements for bloating, and much more, delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, to help keep at least some of that uterus-related pain under control each month.

Adenomyosis vs Endometriosis: Which Do You Have?

You know how much we love to demystify all things PCOS here on the Full Stop blog, which is why we’re revisiting the link between that and insulin resistance, this time with an emphasis on diet. Let’s take a look at how they’re connected, how adjusting your eating habits can help compensate for insulin resistance, and how this can reduce symptoms. 

PCOS is a common condition which affects ovarian function, and due to higher amounts of the hormone androgen, it can lead to irregular periods, excess body hair growth, and enlarged ovaries that cause fertility issues. Symptoms aren’t always noticeable, and many people with PCOS don’t even know they have it - one study found up to 70% of people with PCOS had not been diagnosed. 

What is insulin resistance, and why is it related to PCOS?

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PCOS vs Endometriosis: Which Do You Have?

PMS Or Pregnancy: Help! What's Happening?

Why Do I Have Irregular Periods?

Adenomyosis vs Endometriosis: Which Do You Have?

The PCOS, Insulin Resistance & Diet Connection

Your Guide To Periods On The Pill

What Are The Main Symptoms Of PMDD?

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All The Types & Stages Of Endometriosis

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PCOS And Diabetes: What You Need To Know

Daily Life With Endometriosis Fatigue

Menstrual Cycle Progesterone: What's It For & What It Does

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