Been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, or suspect you might have it? You’re probably wondering what’s going on inside your body. Depending on which type of PCOS you have (yup, there are four) you may experience different symptoms and need to handle them differently. Let’s take a look at their characteristics, and find out which one you have...

PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is common and has all to do with the function of the ovaries. If you have experienced irregular periods, excess body hair, or fertility issues, PCOS could be to blame. Polycystic ovaries hold tiny underdeveloped sacs where eggs develop but are not released. When ovulation doesn’t occur, hormone levels change and PCOS can cause less progesterone and more androgen, causing the symptoms above. 

So, what are the types of PCOS, and what causes them? PCOS has a prevalence of around 2.5% - 11.9%, and of those cases there are four different kinds, with varying causes; 

This is the most common type by far, and affects up to 70% of all people with PCOS. It works in the same way described above. Essentially your cells don’t recognise that insulin exists in the body, causing insulin levels to rise over time and cause the typical PCOS symptoms; irregular periods, fertility issues, excess hair growth, and more. 

This type is driven by chronic inflammation. Studies show it can cause raised levels of CRP, an inflammatory marker also associated with diabetes and heart disease. The cause is believed to be a mix of genetics, stress, environmental toxins, and inflammatory foods. Inflammation happens when the immune system tries to protect against foreign substances in the body. Sometimes the inflammation response overreacts and affects healthy cells, bringing on the symptoms of PCOS. 

This kind is stress-related and causes raised DHEA levels - an androgen hormone produced by the adrenal gland. In this type of PCOS, the ovaries cause excess androgen which can cause adrenal dysfunction. One study tested the adrenal function of 38 patients with PCOS and found that 15 of them produced more adrenal hormones than would be considered normal, and had smaller than average adrenal glands. So, more stress equals more adrenal hormones equals more PCOS symptoms! 

It’s thought that when coming off birth control, some people experience a temporary PCOS-like state. If you had normal periods before you started the pill, but experienced symptoms when you stopped, including weight gain, acne, hair loss or fertility issues, this could be the case for you as your body adjusts to the change in hormones. Usually it resolves itself in a few months, but if you have concerns do speak to your doctor. 

Are there any differences in PCOS symptoms?

Your specific symptoms could be the key to figuring out which type of PCOS you’re dealing with. Here’s what to look out for:

Insulin Resistant PCOS: The most likely symptom is weight gain. You may also have acne, hair growth/loss, irregular periods, and mood and sleep issues. 

Inflammatory PCOS: The most likely symptom is fatigue, but you may notice digestive issues and food sensitivity. You may also suffer from skin issues, headaches or joint pains. One study found those with PCOS had an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease, so watch for symptoms of these conditions too. 

Adrenal PCOS: The most likely symptom is weight gain, but you may also experience acne, hair growth/loss, and irregular periods. If stress, mood swings, fatigue and sleep problems are recurring for you, this could be a sign of Adrenal PCOS. 

Post-Pill PCOS: The symptoms of this type are the same as in Insulin Resistant PCOS, but they will only come on after you stop taking birth control. 

What happens if you have Insulin Resistant PCOS?

It’s relatively easy to diagnose and treat Insulin Resistant PCOS if your symptoms are clear. Your GP may test your testosterone, insulin, fasting blood glucose, and DHEA, and may suggest medicine to reduce insulin levels and improve blood sugar. Sometimes doctors prescribe medicine that’s primarily used for diabetes, which is normal since both conditions deal with insulin. You may benefit from following a low to moderate carb diet, exercising regularly using diverse workouts, and getting adequate sleep.

What happens if you have Inflammatory PCOS?

If your GP suspects you have Inflammatory PCOS, they may test your CRP, DHEA, and check if you have a vitamin D deficiency. You can try an anti-inflammatory diet, minimise your exposure to environmental toxins, and look for ways to reduce stress. Studies have found those with PCOS who followed a Mediterranean-style anti-inflammatory diet for 3 months showed great improvement in their inflammatory markers.

Between 20 and 30% of patients with PCOS have the kind with adrenal androgen excess, and this is primarily identified through raised DHEA levels. Your doctor may check your prolactin levels first to rule out other conditions, then test your testosterone, your DHEA, your cortisol, and insulin resistance. Consider lifestyle changes like reducing your sugar and processed food intake, reducing stress, and getting more sleep. 

Before you are diagnosed with this type of PCOS, your doctor will likely look at your luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) first, as coming off of birth control pills can cause suppression of these hormones, which leads to symptoms. This is pretty normal, and it will typically be recommended that you wait a few months for symptoms to settle down. 

Got a question about the different types of PCOS? We’re all ears! Ask on our private Full Stop FB group, or DM us on Instagram at @itsyoppie so we can help answer them for you. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get organic tampons, PCOS Supplements and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, so that's one less thing to worry about each month.

The Four PCOS Types & How To Identify Them

If you believe there are much scarier things under the sheets than ghosts, you’re in the right place. Whether it’s fear of intimacy, performance anxiety or weird sex myths you’ve heard, we’re lifting the lid on common fears, where they originate, and how to handle them. 

Sex anxiety can affect anyone - any age, gender, experience level, or sexual preference. It’s often associated with a fear of ‘firsts’; first time having sex, first time trying something in the bedroom, first time with a new sex partner, etc. But it can happen at seemingly random times too, and for some, is a long-term affliction that causes real stress and anxiety. Some of the most common fears about sex include: 

Fear of performance in bed and ability to satisfy a partner

Worry that your genitals aren't the "right" size or shape

Worry about orgasm happening too soon, or taking too long (or not happening at all)

The above fears usually manifest as more than just a worry. They can cause intense panic or anxiety, and even the thought can bring on stress. You may experience sweating, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, difficulty focusing, shaking, or something else. 

The Catch-22? The more you worry, the more likely your body will do what you fear most. For example, worrying about not being ‘wet’ enough may result in more dryness. The irony! 

Like most anxiety, this usually has a root cause that makes you question things like how good you are in bed, how you look during sex, what sex means with your partner, and so on. One study from the Journal of Sex Research found a third of US female college students were “unhappy with how their body looks”, which impacted sex with a partner.

Sex anxiety can also stem from past trauma, for example, if you have experienced any type of unwanted sexual encounter in the past, or if you were brought up in a religious environment that associated sex with sin. 

I’ve heard some scary sex myths that make me nervous. Are they true? 

Oh hello fake news! Don’t worry about rumours, just do your own research to calm your anxiety. Let’s quickly debunk some common sex myths: 

You need to orgasm together - We can thank the movies for this one! Couples rarely have an orgasm at the same time. It’s OK to take it in turns.

Anal sex means… there will be poop - Not necessarily. Don’t let this fear stop you from trying anal sex if you want to. Check out our blog on healthy anal sex for tips. 

If your partner doesn’t orgasm, you’ve failed - An orgasm isn’t the only goal of sex, so don’t feel pressure to make this happen. You can enjoy sex sans orgasm.  

If you only like the missionary position, you’re boring - Why reinvent the wheel?! If you both like missionary best, have at it and don’t listen to naysayers. 

Sex isn’t as good with a condom - Not always true, and whether it’s true or not doesn’t matter. If you want to prevent pregnancy and avoid STIs, wear a condom. 

If you need to use lube, you must be old  - False. No matter your age, you may find yourself drier than you’d like to be. No big deal. Enter: lube! 

The first time will hurt - A very common rumour that’s not always true. If your partner cares about your comfort, in most cases you can both create a first-time experience that’s enjoyable and not painful. 

According to the Center for Anxiety Disorders, sex avoidance is a real condition, and a defence mechanism if you suffer from sexual anxiety. While you are under no obligation to ever have sex, it’s best to face the issue and improve your sex anxiety by moving past some of the self-imposed boundaries you have in place. There are some steps that may help...

While mindfulness exercises can help (e.g. breathing techniques) you should try to address the source of the issue rather than just taking deep breaths until it’s over. You may like to:

Work on becoming comfortable in your own body. If you have self-esteem or confidence issues, make day-to-day changes like picking yourself up on any negative self-talk, or removing social media scrolling if it makes you feel bad about yourself. 

Sometimes our worries are like a runaway train because we don’t address the issues, so if you worry about how your partner sees you in bed, communicate with them about this. Opening up will give them a chance to help. 

If you struggle to move past certain steps during sex, take the end goal off the table. Focus on foreplay, and get used to touching. By removing the worry about the next steps, you can enjoy the present. And if you ever feel ready to move on, you can. 

Do your research. If you lack sexual experience, don’t let anxiety take over your brain. Forget the rumours you’ve heard and Google what’s bothering you to alleviate the fear of the unknown. *ahem* The Full Stop blog has lots of good stuff...

Talk to a counsellor or sex therapist. If your anxiety is rooted in past trauma, you may benefit from speaking to a professional who can shed light on the root cause of your anxiety, and suggest exercises or techniques to improve it. Speak to your GP about general counselling or look for a private therapist who is a member of the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists or the Institute of Psychosexual Medicine.

Do you have questions about sex anxiety? Our Full Stop FB group is a private, inclusive place where you can ask questions, or feel free to DM us on Instagram at @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised menstrual care subscription can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, so that's at least one pretty darn big load off your mind.

Spooked By Sex? Here's What Sex Anxiety Means

If you find yourself blotting away beads of sweat after eating a big meal, you may be wondering what the heck is happening to you. Understandable if you’ve just run a marathon, not so much if you’re sitting at your kitchen table. We’re taking a look at what might be causing this uncomfortable sweaty issue. Let’s take a look… 

If you are regularly sweating while eating, or after eating, there are a few things that could be causing this. The most likely culprits are:

Head or neck surgery: If you have had surgery on your head or neck in the past, particularly if this was to remove a parotid gland (the largest of the salivary glands), you may have experienced trauma to the tissues around this area, which can result in excessive sweating. 

Gustatory sweating or Frey’s syndrome: These two are similar, and affect the parotid gland. Many people sweat during or after eating spicy food, but people with one of these two conditions may find they sweat during or after eating anything at all. Sweat can also be brought on by foods that cause a person to salivate more, and can even be triggered by just the thought of food. Uh oh… 

Idiopathic hyperhidrosis: If your doctor cannot identify the root cause of your untimely sweating, they may simply refer to it as idiopathic hyperhidrosis. Even if they are unable to find the underlying condition they can usually treat the sweating, so don’t worry if this is the case for you. 

Polycystic ovary syndrome: It may seem totally unconnected, but excessive sweating after eating can be a sign of PCOS. Read on to find out more…

PCOS stands for polycystic ovary syndrome, and it’s a pretty common condition which affects the function of the ovaries. Most people with PCOS don’t actually know they have it - in fact one study found that up to 70% of people with the condition hadn’t been diagnosed. 

Despite the name, polycystic ovaries don’t contain cysts, just underdeveloped sacs of up to 8mm in size where eggs develop but are rarely able to be released. Without ovulation, hormone levels may be altered, causing the ovaries to produce less progesterone and more of the hormone androgen.

The most common PCOS symptoms tend to be irregular periods, heavy bleeding, excessive hair growth or hair loss, acne, weight gain, and in some cases fertility issues. Some people might experience only one of these symptoms, while others might have multiple. 

Hyperhidrosis (or excessive sweating) after a non-cardio activity like eating your dinner, can actually be a rare sign of PCOS, and can sometimes be the one that alerts people to the condition. If you regularly notice excess sweating during or after a meal, it may be worth considering the other symptoms of PCOS, and if you have any concerns you should speak to your GP to start the necessary investigations. 

Unfortunately there are no tests to diagnose PCOS, but your doctor may discuss your medical history and symptoms. If they suspect PCOS, they may perform a pelvic exam to check for any growths or abnormalities, do blood tests to gauge hormone levels, or an ultrasound to look at the ovaries.

I’m embarrassed by excessive sweating. What can I do?

Sweating is never fun, but least of all when you are out socialising and end up drenched, uncomfortable and running for the bathroom to “freshen up”. If you suffer from hyperhidrosis, whatever the reason, you may wish to stick to a strong antiperspirant to minimise the amount of sweat, wear layers so you can cover any sweat patches that might occur, and bring a tissue or small handkerchief with you to blot away any shine. 

It can be difficult to discuss what feels like an embarrassing problem, but most people will be understanding if you let them know your situation, so when this happens, try not to be embarrassed or let it stop you from living life. 

If you suspect you may have one of the conditions listed above, or your excessive sweating is causing you distress and anxiety about going out, eating, or taking part in other daily activities, don’t ignore it. Speak to your GP so they can help discover the root cause and banish those persistent sweat beads. 

Do you have PCOS and notice you sweat after eating? We’d love to know your experience with this and any tips you have for managing it. You can get in touch on our Instagram at @itsyoppie to ask any questions. Don't forget that our personalised menstrual cycle care box covers everything from organic tampons to hydrating face masks (and plenty more!) delivered regularly through your letterbox - so that's one less thing to worry about each month.

Sweating After Eating? Here's What It Could Be

You may be wondering “why on earth would anyone want to have a period?” and it’s an understandable question, but a complicated one. Whether you’re on the side of wanting to banish them forever, or believe they are useful for keeping tabs on your general and reproductive health, let’s take a look at the safety of messing with your menstruation, the benefits and risks, and why it might be the right or wrong choice for you...

It’s actually way less complicated to stop periods than you might think. If you are taking the combined pill, estrogen causes the lining of the uterus to thicken, and progesterone thins it. If you skip the break in your pack, progesterone levels stay constant, so your uterine lining remains thin. This means there is no lining to shed from the uterus. And voila, no period!

This has always been the big question, and unfortunately, there still isn’t enough research into the risks of long-term suppression of periods. The National Women’s Health Network states there is no evidence that using birth control to skip periods is harmful, but it is believed there could be possible side effects when doing this over many years. 

For example, the National Cancer Institute says there is mixed evidence that hormonal birth control could increase risk of breast and cervical cancer. To confuse things even more, they also suggest that it could reduce risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers. Minefield, right?! 

Ultimately it seems more research is needed on the safety of long-term birth control use for period suppression. If you plan to do it, we recommend proceeding with caution and discussing it with your GP to ensure your personal health history is taken into consideration. 

Oh yes, many benefits. Delaying or stopping your period has many an upside, including:  

Delaying monthly period pain to make its timing more convenient around life

Reducing or removing a heavy bleed week each month to prevent anemia 

Reducing PMS symptoms such as menstrual migraines and acne

Potentially lowering risk of certain types of cancers and ovarian cysts 

More control over life plans and better wellbeing 

What about the risks of stopping your period?

As previously mentioned, not enough research exists yet on the risks, but some possible risks include: 

Pregnancy, since no birth control is 100% effective, and you may miss the early signs of pregnancy 

Breakthrough bleeding, which happens as your body gets used to the constant hormones, making it more difficult to predict bleeding

Missing signs of possible health issues. A regular, healthy period is a good indicator of health, so stopping the bleed can reduce the chances of catching early signs of possible underlying health or fertility concerns

Birth control period suppression is thought to have links to an increased risk of certain types of cancer

Let’s not beat around the bush - periods can be a pain in the neck (and everywhere else) to say the least. We’ve all felt the disappointment of getting your period when you’ve just put on that brand new bikini on holiday. This alone would be grounds to want to stop menstruation in its tracks, but some people have more pressing reasons for wanting to get rid of them for good. For example, those who suffer from painful or difficult periods every month, or whose gender identity makes menstruation a source of stress, anxiety and dysphoria. 

Then there’s the argument for removing the stigma and shame associated with periods. In many cases, stopping periods is seen as an unfair necessity in order to avoid the supposed ‘embarrassment’ of having a period. It may further stigmatise and suppress talk of normalising menstruation, and could even be seen as a way for pharmaceutical companies to profit from our bodies. 

At its core, the question is; does stopping periods empower us to choose when we bleed? Or does it keep us bound to the historical view that periods are something to be ‘fixed’? 

Ultimately, this question will have different answers to different people, depending on your personal relationship with your period, your health journey, your gender identity and more. And that’s absolutely OK. The benefits are clear, but perhaps we should now be striving for further research on the risks to make the option of stopping periods as safe as possible. 

There is no guaranteed safe way to stop your monthly bleed, but if you’re going to do it, best do it right! Here’s where to start: 

If you want to simply delay your period for a set amount of time, speak to your doctor about norethisterone, a medicine specifically designed to delay periods. It does not offer contraceptive protection though, so don’t rely on this as birth control. 

Consider opting for a birth control method such as the Mirena coil or progestogen injections. Though they are not designed to stop periods, this is often a side effect, and many people find this works for them. 

The vaginal ring is designed to be worn for 3 weeks and taken out on the fourth week to allow a period to occur. If you want to skip your period, you can insert a new ring immediately after removing the old one.

Have you tried delaying your period? Or stopping it altogether? If you have questions or would like to share your own experience of skipping periods, we’d love to know more! Join the conversation in our Full Stop FB group, or get in touch on our Instagram at @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised menstrual cycle care box covers everything from organic tampons to hydrating face masks (and plenty more!) delivered regularly through your letterbox - so whether you opt to keep rocking the bleed or not, we're here to make life easier for you every month.

To Bleed Or Not To Bleed? How To Stop Periods (And If You Should)

So you’ve got all the symptoms; cramps, bloating, acne, low mood… but no bleeding? One of the first things you may think of when you experience a missed period is pregnancy, and this is a possibility. But it turns out many other things could be the cause, too. Let’s take a look at what else could be to blame for those eerily period-like symptoms...

Ano-what now? If you’ve never heard of this before, you’re not alone. It’s rare, but it does happen so it’s good to know about if your periods aren’t appearing when they should. Anovulation is when your body skips ovulation (the part where the ovary releases an egg), but it still produces period symptoms.

It’s most common in the first year of having periods or in those approaching menopause, but it’s possible to have it at any age, particularly for those who exercise to extreme levels or have very high or low body weight. If you have anovulation and you’re trying to get pregnant, your doctor can usually offer treatment options and medications.

Ovulation pain (referred to as Mittelschmerz - German for "middle pain") is when you experience a one-sided pain in your lower abdomen while ovulating. It feels a bit like period cramps, which gives the impression of being on your period without there being any blood. 

This shouldn’t stop you from having your regular bleed each month, but if you are feeling period-like symptoms roughly 14 days after, that pesky Mittelschmerz could be the cause. It’s nothing you need to fix, but if it’s causing you bother you may find a gentle massage or a hot water bottle resting on your abdomen could relieve some discomfort. 

Sometimes hormonal birth control can affect the heaviness of your flow, like an IUD (intrauterine device), which can sometimes lighten or stop periods. A 2016 study researched this in more than 1,800 subjects using the Mirena IUD and found that after one year of use, those who began with light or short periods were more likely to lose their period altogether. 

However, the rest of the symptoms (like cramps, bloating, acne, etc.) were still there, so if you’re thinking of getting an IUD to stop all symptoms… no such luck. If you have an IUD and are no longer getting a monthly bleed, it’s nothing to worry about, but if you would prefer a regular period you can speak to your GP about switching to another type of birth control. 

The rumours are true; stress can lighten or stop periods. While you may still experience the usual symptoms of periods, extreme stress can cause bleeding to stop. This happens when the hypothalamus (the part of the brain that controls your period) releases chemicals to trigger the pituitary gland to release estrogen and progesterone. When cortisol (the stress hormone) appears, it interferes with this process and can cause irregular or missed periods. 

This could be one of the first things to rule out. Have you been very stressed recently? Have you gone through a major life change? If the answer is yes, think about how you can start to take care of yourself and de-stress to get back to full health. 

Now on to some of the less common reasons, such as… 

Hypothyroidism can cause infrequent or missed periods due to an increase in thyroid releasing hormone (TRH). High TRH levels tell the pituitary gland it’s time to release prolactin, which interferes with estrogen production. Among other symptoms this can lead to missed periods, so you may be getting your usual period symptoms but no bleed days. 

PCOS has many symptoms, including irregular or missed periods, but you may still feel typical PMS symptoms throughout the month. PCOS is caused by high levels of androgens, which can - in some cases - prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg during ovulation. This can mean you get all the symptoms of your period minus the blood each month. 

Uterine polyps are small growths on the inside of the uterus that are usually benign (non-cancerous) but can cause irregular periods. Similarly, an ovarian cyst is a fluid sac that grows on an ovary. Though symptoms are typically minimal unless there are complications, some people find they experience irregular periods, as well as bloating which could be mistaken for a PMS symptom. 

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection that affects the womb, fallopian tubes and/or ovaries. Symptoms include pain in the lower belly (often mistaken for period pain) and vaginal discharge (another side effect of menstruation). Irregular periods are also a symptom of PID, so you may have suspiciously period-like symptoms but no bleeding. 

UTIs (urinary tract infections) like cystitis are common and can mimic some period symptoms like lower belly cramping, without the accompanying bleed. If you are getting cramps when your period isn’t due, it may be best to get checked by your GP to ensure you do not have an infection that needs to be treated. 

Got Qs about your period symptoms? We’re always keen to answer any questions you have over in our Full Stop FB group. You can also get in touch on Instagram at @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get full-cycle menstrual care from organic tampons to relaxing hydrating face masks (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox so you've got one less thing to worry about during your cycle.

Period Symptoms But No Period? What The Heck?

Of all the annoying, disheartening, infuriating PMS symptoms, acne has got to be one of the worst. At least with the rest, you can hide them in some way, right?! But acne is always there, front and centre, ready to ruin your confidence at a time when you’re already feeling pretty lousy. 

Around 50% of people with periods aged 20 to 29 suffer from acne, and it affects those younger and older, too. There are many different types of acne, but here we’re focusing on what is arguably the worst kind of all; hormonal cystic acne. 

Cystic acne is when a cyst builds up underneath the skin due to bacteria, oil or dry skin cells trapped inside pores. Anyone can end up with cystic acne, but the hormonal kind tends to affect those who experience oily skin due to fluctuating hormones. Mainly teenagers, people with periods, and anyone with a hormonal imbalance. 

You are most likely to develop cystic acne in your teens or early 20s, and it could affect your face, shoulders, upper arms, chest, and back. You may be more likely to suffer from it if one of your parents did, and people with periods tend to find they get cysts on the lower half of their face. Sometimes this improves with age, but it usually takes a helping hand to treat it. 

How is it different from other types of acne? 

Compared to regular acne which affects the surface of the skin, cystic acne is pretty intense as it tends to be the largest in size and begin deeper in the skin. It may look like a large white raised lump surrounded by redness, a bit like a boil. Cysts are usually tender to touch, but they’re filled with pus, so very tempting to pop! Acne cysts can also leave long-lasting deep scars that look like tiny holes, uneven skin, or wide, shallow indents. 

With hormonal acne, it’s a hormone called androgen that throws everything out of whack. In teenagers, levels of androgen rise which causes clogged pores, and leads to acne. Similarly, those with fluctuating hormones could experience the same results, and some people get regular period acne. This can happen to those with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), those on certain medications, or simply during PMS, when pregnant, or going through menopause. 

You may hear rumours that things like greasy foods, too much chocolate, or not washing your face often enough could be causing the problem, but this is not the case with hormonal acne. Even those with the healthiest, most strict diet and wellness routine can suffer from this if their hormones aren’t playing ball. 

Unfortunately, cystic acne is the most likely kind of acne to leave scars behind. And the best way to reduce the chance of this happening? Don’t. Touch. Cysts. We know; easier said than done. Picking and popping cysts not only increases the chance of being left with scarring, it can also spread bacteria around the face, leading to even more acne. Try your best to leave all cysts alone no matter how much you want to keep popping! 

If you have scars from past acne, there are skin treatments that may reduce their appearance such as chemical peels, dermabrasion and laser resurfacing from a dermatologist, but you should only go through with treatments like this if your acne has properly healed. 

While medications that treat regular acne aren’t strong enough to work on cystic acne, it’s certainly not a lost cause! There are many cystic acne treatment options available, including: 

Antibiotics that control bacteria and reduce inflammation

Ointments like benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria and calm inflammation

Creams like retinoid (a form of vitamin A) to help unclog pores and assist antibiotics

Medications like isotretinoin to shrink sebaceous glands and reduce oil production 

It’s really getting me down. Is there anything else I can do?

Any kind of acne can feel demoralising and isolating, and in severe cases can make people withdraw from social events and daily activities. It can have adverse effects on your mental health, so keep in mind that if you are experiencing low mood due to issues with acne, you should discuss this with your doctor. They can try different treatments until you find something that works for you. 

Be persistent to find a solution, and in the meantime know that in most cases cystic acne resolves itself over time, so don’t be disheartened if you need to try multiple treatment options to find what works for your skin. 

Do you suffer from hormonal cystic acne? You may find others with similar issues in our Full Stop FB group. Reach out with questions there, or on Insta at @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get full-cycle menstrual care from organic tampons to skin-calming charcoal sheet masks (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox so you've got one less thing to worry about during your cycle.

Everything To Know About Hormonal Cystic Acne

Yes… we’re going there. Yoppie loves to spill the beans on the things nobody wants to talk about, so whether you’re a total newbie to giving a blow job, or you’ve always had unanswered questions, this is the guide you need. Forget all the rumours and myths you heard in high school, let’s clear some things up... 

Whether you’ve heard it called a BJ, blow job, fellatio, or something more creative from Urban Dictionary, they’re all just a bunch of colloquial terms for oral sex involving a penis. The general idea is to use your mouth in a repetitive motion on the penis to create a feeling of arousal for the receiver. Despite what the name may suggest, the only thing you don’t want to do is blow. Trust us, that won’t go down well...

Absolutely not, you should only do what you feel comfortable with. That said, don’t be embarrassed by any curiosity you have to give it a go. It’s an intimate experience, but if you feel comfortable with your partner there’s no reason why you can’t try it to see if you like it. Also keep in mind that just because your partner goes down on you, does not mean you must ‘return the favour’. Forget any pressure you feel to reciprocate, that’s not how it works. 

I think all my friends have done it and not me. Am I a prude?

It can be difficult when your friends are very open with their sexual experiences and expect you to be the same. It’s estimated around 85% of adults between 18 and 44 have performed oral sex at some point in their lives, so it’s pretty common, but that means there are around 15% of people in this age group who think ‘Nah, not for me!’ and that’s absolutely OK. 

If you are still young and discovering sex for the first time, remember there’s no rush. In fact, waiting to try some things later is often a great idea - like saving the best sweets in a box of chocolates to eat last! 

Unless you accidentally bite down, there’s really no way to mess up a blow job, but the important thing is to communicate with your partner - everyone can enjoy something different! In principle it’s just a lot of licking, sucking, and basically putting the penis in your mouth in a repetitive motion. Begin with your hands to get things going, then start licking to apply some saliva to keep things slick and smooth. Some partners will prefer the hand action, or to lick with or without flavoured lube. Keep that communication up!

Slide your mouth up and down the penis, taking it as far in as feels comfortable and is okay for your partner. Keep the penis lubricated, your teeth out of the way, and voila! That’s pretty much it. If your jaw starts to hurt or become stiff, try alternating between mouth and hands to switch it up and give your jaw a rest and - we can’t stress this enough - maintain open communication with your partner at all times to make sure you’re both enjoying yourselves! 

It’s normal for your gag reflex to kick in, as the penis may reach the back of your throat. Try the above method of switching between mouth and hands, or place the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth to create a barrier so the penis hits the underside of the tongue instead. This gives the illusion of ‘deep’ but keeps things shallow and manageable for you. 

There are all sorts of techniques you might hear relating to blow jobs, some more adventurous than others! We’ll cover the basics of what objectively makes a good blow job:

Make sure you have enough saliva or edible lube to keep things slick.

Try using your hands to explore the full genital area, like the balls and thighs.

Switch up motions and tempo regularly to keep it interesting for both of you.

Let your tongue explore to find what your partner likes; the head, frenulum (the small ridge where the head connects to the shaft), scrotum, wherever you feel comfortable.

Ah yes, the age-old question… spit or swallow?! Again, communication becomes key so before getting down to business make sure you’ve had the discussion with your partner. Nobody wants surprise ejaculation in unwanted locations!

When your partner ejaculates, there are technically three options. Firstly, if you’re not keen on having semen in your mouth, bring them to near climax then switch to using your hands to take them the rest of the way. Job done. 

If you’re happy to have them finish in your mouth, you can either spit out the semen afterwards or swallow it. Contrary to schoolyard rumours, you cannot get pregnant by swallowing semen. The choice is yours, and whether you spit, swallow, or switch to hands, your partner will likely enjoy it regardless. 

Don’t worry if your partner doesn’t ejaculate. An orgasm isn’t always the goal with oral sex (or any kind of sex, for that matter!) and your partner may enjoy themselves without reaching the stage of ejaculation. Sometimes BJs are just a bit of fun without an endgame, sometimes they are just foreplay, and that’s OK.  

Can you catch an STI by giving a blow job?

Yes. STIs spread via any contact with bodily fluids or the skin of an infected person, so it’s possible to catch one while giving a blow job. Some of the most common STIs to catch through oral sex are chlamydia, gonorrhoea, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), and syphilis, and a good way to avoid catching something is to use a condom.

Got a question about blow jobs? We’re not shy about answering! Shout out over in our private Facebook group, or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised menstrual care subscription can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, which frees up some headspace for thinking about the more fun things you can get up to down there...

Spit Or Swallow? A BJ Beginner's Guide

Now more than ever we’re taught to love our bodies just as they are, practise self-love to the max, and embrace our perceived imperfections… but when we find hairs growing on our nipples, it seems to be a very different story. 

Many of us are embarrassed by them, since most women have spent years being conditioned to believe we must be entirely hairless below the eyebrows. Let’s talk hairy nipples; why this happens, how to remove hair (if you want to), and why you don’t have to...

Believe it or not, hairy nipples are thought to be relatively common for women. Some boobs have just a few hairs, others have an areola forest! Our bodies are covered in hair follicles which usually grow tiny, transparent hairs all over. Unfortunately for many of us, these can grow longer and darker in the most random places thanks to… you guessed it… hormones. 

Your hormones trigger a bunch of stuff to happen each month, but they tend to cause excess hair to grow during pregnancy and menopause. Still, at any age or stage in life, you may find yourself with hairy nipples - not to worry.  

You may also be prone to an overproduction of testosterone, which encourages symptoms like hair growth, oily skin, hair loss on your head (the irony!), and more. If you think this could be the case for you, speak to your doctor about a hormone test to find out what’s going on. 

I’ve heard it could be PCOS. Is this true?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) could be one cause of hairy nipples due to a hormone imbalance. This condition is thought to affect around 1 in 5 people with periods, and influences the way the ovaries function, leading to symptoms such as irregular periods, ovarian cysts, fertility issues, and excessive hair growth in seemingly odd places. 

There is also a possibility that hair growth on the nipples could be a result of another hormonal imbalance called Cushing’s syndrome. Cute name, not so cute when it comes to the symptoms, which include excess hair growth, abnormal periods, high blood pressure, fat buildup in specific places, and more. 

This very rare condition occurs due to an excess of cortisol in the body, and though it’s unlikely to be the cause of your nipple hair growth, you can always discuss it with your doctor if you are concerned. 

Do other women have hairy nipples? How do I know if I’m normal?! 

There’s no such thing! Having random hairs sprout in odd places is pretty common, though many women choose not to report the symptom, and simply manage it themselves. Hairs may be long, short, coarse or fine, so don’t worry that yours are abnormal. They’re not.

Not if you don’t want to. You should only remove excess hair on your nipples if it is affecting your confidence, otherwise there is no medical reason you need to. Remember it will only be seen by you and perhaps a partner occasionally. However, if you would prefer to remove it, there are many options available. 

If you choose to remove the hair on your nipples, here are the best ways:

Frequently trim it using small scissors, but be very careful when you do this - nobody wants an accidental nip snip (ouch)!

Tweeze them. The skin around the nipple is very sensitive, so it’s best to do this just after a warm shower when your pores are open and hairs are more easily removed. 

Shaving is an option, but be very careful when using a razor around the nipple area.

If you prefer waxing (which can also be painful on sensitive nipples!), it’s best to go to a salon to have this done properly by a professional.

If you want something potentially more long-term, you may be able to opt for laser treatment, but keep in mind this is both uncomfortable and pricey. 

Can I bleach them? Or use a hair removal cream?

The skin and hair around your nipples are super sensitive, and products designed to bleach or remove hair are particularly strong and tend to irritate delicate skin, so it’s best to stick to one of the above methods instead. 

If your only symptom is hair around your nipples, then there is no reason to see a doctor about this. If however, you have accompanying symptoms that concern you, it’s always best to speak to your GP and mention that excess hair growth is one of your symptoms. 

They may do tests to rule out conditions like PCOS and Cushing’s syndrome, and figure out what’s going on with your hormones. If hormones are to blame, they may also be able to advise which treatments could help, such as birth control pills or single hormone treatment. 

Got questions about hairy nipples? You can chat to others in our Full Stop FB group, or if you’d prefer to remain anonymous (no judgement!) you can DM us on Instagram at @itsyoppie - we’re always happy to answer for you. Don't forget that our personalised period box can get menstrual cycle care from organic tampons to hormonal supplements and more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, which is one less thing to worry about.

Help, I've Got Hairy Nipples! Should I Worry?

Think you’re too young to be getting hot flashes? These unprompted sweaty episodes have long been associated with menopause, but there are a few reasons they can happen at any age. Let’s take a look at what hot flashes are, why they happen, and how to handle them when they surprise you at the most inopportune moments...

Hot flashes (the menopause kind) feel like a sudden rush of heat around the body that triggers sweating, heart palpitations and skin flushing. They are quick for some people, while others find them embarrassing and extremely uncomfortable. 

For most people, they begin in the months or years before menopause, and studies show 4 in 5 people with periods experience hot flashes in middle age, with symptoms lasting on average 7 years. Hot flashes happen due to fluctuating or decreasing estrogen levels which impact the part of the brain that regulates temperature, causing a spike in body heat. 

I thought they were just for people going through menopause...

If you’re having hot flashes, it doesn’t necessarily mean you are starting menopause. They can happen when your body senses its core temperature is too warm, triggering your heart to beat faster, the blood vessels in your skin to expand, and your sweat glands to perspire in order to cool down. 

While menopause is one reason for this, there are other possible causes such as anxiety, certain medications, infections, conditions like hyperthyroidism, consuming too much caffeine, and more. Then there are the hot flashes that come on during your period.

Why do I get hot flashes during my period? 

Hot flashes can happen at any age alongside menstruation. As long as you have no other symptoms, they are usually nothing to worry about. These are triggered by your fluctuating estrogen levels during this time of the month - just like when estrogen levels drop for good when a person hits menopause, you can experience a similar drop in estrogen when you are younger, too, which is what causes PMS symptoms. 

For some, PMS symptoms rather unfairly include hot flashes alongside everything else! When ovulation happens in the middle of your cycle, progesterone levels increase causing a slight rise in body temperature. It’s usually not noticeable, but it can affect the part of the brain that balances temperature and sends signals to your body to sweat and cool down. 

In short, your hormones get your brain all confused, and it alerts the body to sweat when it shouldn’t (usually while you’re in the middle of something reeeally important and could do without excess sweat and a red face…) 

I’m worried it could be early menopause. Am I right?

For some, hot flashes are a perfectly normal PMS symptom, but they can sometimes indicate early menopause. Menopause typically starts anywhere from age 45 onwards, but on rare occasions it can start earlier. This is known as primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). Other symptoms include irregular periods, mood changes, trouble focusing, and more. 

With POI, fertility could be an issue, but rest assured the condition does not mean your ovaries are not functioning. If you believe these symptoms apply to you, speak to your doctor for more information, treatment options, and fertility advice if you plan to get pregnant. 

I feel anxious during hot flashes. Is this normal? 

Yes, anxiety is a common symptom that happens alongside hot flashes. You may feel a little irritated, frustrated, claustrophobic and jittery while you wait for the hot flash to pass. It helps to remember anxiety is a common and normal feeling to have when you are sitting at dinner and sweating like you’ve just run a marathon! 

Are hot flashes the same as night sweats?

Night sweats are the same thing, except they happen while you sleep. If you wake up in the middle of the night drenched in sweat, it’s not just a bad dream, it’s likely your hormones. There can be other reasons for night sweats, like sleep apnea, infections, medication and more, but when your hormones are going haywire during your period, night sweats can occur while your body tries to catch some Zs. 

While you can’t stop hot flashes entirely, you can avoid the triggers to lessen their impact. Triggers are different for everyone, but some common ones are alcohol, smoking, caffeine, spicy food, stress, and restrictive clothing. Keep a diary of when hot flashes happen and figure out what might be causing them at specific times so you can avoid repeating triggers. 

How do I manage hot flashes on my period?

There are a few tricks that could help manage hot flashes day-to-day:

Carry a small fan in your bag to help cool you down quicker 

Dress in layers that are easy to remove 

Stay cool at night with a lightweight sheet and PJs 

Practice mindful activities like meditation and breathwork in order to ease stress and slow your heart rate when a hot flash arrives 

Speak to your doctor about medication and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that could help reduce menopause symptoms

Do you experience hot flashes during your period? Tell us how you handle them over in our Full Stop FB group or get in touch on Instagram at @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get menstrual cycle care from organic tampons to hormonal supplements (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, which is one less thing to get flustered about each month.

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The Four PCOS Types & How To Identify Them

Spooked By Sex? Here's What Sex Anxiety Means

Sweating After Eating? Here's What It Could Be

To Bleed Or Not To Bleed? How To Stop Periods (And If You Should)

Period Symptoms But No Period? What The Heck?

Everything To Know About Hormonal Cystic Acne

Spit Or Swallow? A BJ Beginner's Guide

Help, I've Got Hairy Nipples! Should I Worry?

Living With Hot Flashes On Your Period

Why Am I Getting Cramps AFTER My Period?

Copper vs Hormonal IUDs: What To Know

PMS, Mental Health & Socialising

Why Exfoliate Your Skin During Week 2 Of Your Cycle

What's The Buzz Around Types Of Vibrators?

What Does Chlamydia Look Like & What To Do About It

Constant Dry Skin Around Your Nose? Here's What's What

What Is PCOS? Signs, Symptoms & How To Handle It

Getting Wet: The Difference Between Cervical Fluid, Arousal Fluid & Discharge

What The Heck Is A Coregasm!?

Is Shiny Skin Natural, And How Do You Manage It?

What's This PMS Insomnia Thing?

Bleeding During Ovulation: What's Going On?

Period Acne 101: What Is It & What Can I Do?

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

Help! My Period's Late! Now What?

What's My Skin Type? Get The Facts

What's Up With Sore Boobs Before Your Period?

The Differences Between A Vagina & A Cervix

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?