If you’re struggling with hair loss due to PCOS, you’re not alone. It’s a common symptom, with studies in 2011, 2014 and 2016 finding that between 16% and 36% of patients suffered from ‘androgenic alopecia’, aka PCOS-related hair loss. Let’s take a look at why this happens, how to cope with it day-to-day, and what treatments your doctor might suggest. 

I have PCOS - what’s happening with my hormones?!

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition where hormonal imbalances caused by the ovaries create excess hormones called androgens, leading to unusual symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, obesity, cysts, fertility issues, and more. 

Perhaps the strangest symptom of PCOS is that in some people it can cause abnormal hair growth all over the body (such as the arms, chest and stomach), while others will experience thinning hair on the head. Two entirely opposite (and frustrating!) symptoms, and yet they are commonly reported in cases of PCOS. 

Why is hair loss one of the symptoms of PCOS?

The ‘male’ hormones produced - androgens and testosterone - work to trigger puberty and stimulate hair growth under the arms and in the pubic areas when we go through puberty, but when PCOS causes an excessive amount of these hormones, people with periods may notice hair growing in places it usually wouldn’t, like on the face, neck, chest or stomach. 

Alternatively, these extra androgens may cause hair on the head to thin, particularly at the front. In women, this is often referred to as ‘androgenic alopecia’. There’s no telling whether your particular brand of PCOS will lead to hair growth or hair loss - it’s luck of the draw, and everyone experiences different symptoms. 

Hair lost due to PCOS is unlikely to grow back without intervention, but there are some things you can try out to stimulate growth, slow down further hair loss, and mask thinning hair if you want to. Let’s start with what treatments might slow down hair loss…

Contraceptive pills - Since PCOS is a hormone-related condition, hormone management is important, and birth control can help with this by lowering androgen levels to slow down hair loss on the head

Anti-androgen medications - These can often be prescribed alongside oral contraceptives to balance androgen levels and help reduce hair loss

There are also some treatments you can try for additional hair growth, such as:

Minoxidil (known as Regaine or Rogaine) can be used to promote hair growth and is sometimes effective in people with PCOS-related hair loss. It can be bought over the counter and comes as a daily scalp treatment to give hair a thicker appearance. 

Hair transplant - In some cases, people may consider a hair transplant; a surgical procedure to redistribute healthy hair follicles by removing them from one area of the scalp and adding them to another - it’s expensive, so won’t suit everyone!

Laser therapy - This method has not yet been studied enough, but some people have seen results using low-level laser therapy to stimulate hair growth

And even some natural remedies you can try at home, like:

Scalp massage - This method is thought to stimulate the follicles in the scalp and encourage hair growth 

Zinc supplements - One 2016 study found zinc could help with PCOS-related hair loss, finding that 50mg of elemental zinc daily for 8 weeks had positive effects

Biotin supplements - This popular supplement is known for its positive impact on the growth of hair and nails, and while it hasn’t been tested specifically with PCOS-related hair loss, this could be something that works for you

Weight loss - There is evidence that a reduction in weight can lower androgen levels and, as a result, reduce hair loss

Supplements - find out more about Yoppie's Poly Complete Support that helps support hair loss symptoms.

Remember you may need to try a few of the above treatments until you find one (or a combination of a few) that works best for you. 

If your hair loss is caused by PCOS then it’s not just an aesthetic issue, so your doctor should be able to discuss possible treatments to stop further thinning, as well as treatments for the underlying PCOS itself. As above, there are many options available and some of these will need to be prescribed by a doctor, so see your GP to find out what’s best for you. 

My PCOS hair loss is really getting me down - what can I do? 

Thinning hair can be a difficult symptom to deal with, especially for those who identify as women… let’s not pretend there aren’t societal beauty standards at play! Understanding the cause (PCOS, for example) and exploring the options can help. Should you try medications? Natural supplements? Cover up with a hat? Try a wig or thickening spray? Or just embrace it? Whatever you decide, what matters most is that you feel confident in your appearance.

And don’t underestimate the power of talking! Sometimes the worry that people will stare or ask questions is the worst part, so take control of the situation and discuss it with friends and family so they understand your insecurities. You may find most people don’t even notice. 

Got more questions about PCOS or hair loss? We’re always happy to answer any queries you have. You can chat to us and others 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, PMS supplements and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, to help keep at least some of that PCOS pain under control each month.

How To Handle PCOS Hair Loss

The relationship between the menstrual cycle and mental health is fascinating. Where PMS-related mental health issues like anxiety and low mood were once seen as things to keep to yourself, now there’s better understanding of how these two huge parts of life are linked, and there’s a lot more to learn. Here are just a few of the ways your mental health and hormones are connected, and why it’s so important to understand your own cycle and the emotions it causes. Here we go… 

When you ovulate, the hormones estrogen and progesterone rise and eventually peak, then fall again during the luteal phase. Then the rollercoaster climbs up again with a second spike, this time of progesterone, then drops again. All this rising and falling affects the neurotransmitters in your brain - serotonin and dopamine - which are responsible for your mood, how well you sleep, and your energy levels. When these neurotransmitters dip, you may experience low mood, sleep issues, anger and anxiety.  

Your cycle can give you BIG dreams and nightmares 

Yup, those weird dreams where you’re in the supermarket in your underwear with a meerkat on a leash being chased by an axe-wielding Judi Dench and… well, you know the ones. Whatever goes on in those sometimes bizarre, sometimes scary dreams, it’s often just hormones messing with your head. 

You may struggle to get deep sleep at certain points in your cycle due to fluctuations in progesterone. When you have more rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, you’re in a deep sleep and less likely to remember dreams, but when REM sleep is disrupted, you may recall dreams more often. 

PMS tends to have us craving certain foods, but we often forget the culprit in the moment, blinded by the intense desire to get our hands on a snack. It’s worth keeping in mind that you may experience food cravings throughout your cycle, but don’t neglect the nutrients that your body needs in order to transport hormones. 

Vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6 and magnesium help curb PMS symptoms, including the emotional ones, so pay attention to what you eat, and enjoy a healthy balance between what your body needs and what your mind craves, to ensure you have everything required to function and feel good. 

Irritable bowel syndrome, commonly known as IBS, is often thought of as a mild affliction, but anyone who suffers from it knows it can be incredibly stressful. In fact, studies have found IBS can lead to ‘significant psychological distress’ and cause high levels of anxiety, depression and even suicidal thoughts. 

Research has found IBS can worsen alongside PMS and other stages of the menstrual cycle, creating even more problems; first your period causes your mental health to wobble, then your anxiety comes on strong as a result, which manifests as IBS, and aggravates your PMS and vice versa. Yikes! Remember you never need to put up with anything that has a negative impact on your life, so speak to your doctor for ways to improve your situation. 

Stress levels can affect your menstruation 

It’s come to light in recent years how much damage stress can do to our bodies without us even realising. Stress can cause periods to become irregular, or more painful, with studies finding a correlation between stress and dysmenorrhoea (painful menstrual cramps). Those with high levels of stress are twice as likely to experience this. 

Studies have also found a link between those with stressful jobs and irregular menstruation. But why? It’s thought the body shuts down unnecessary functions when stressed, and therefore stops ovulating because it assumes we don’t need to conceive right now. Clever, but often more stressful if you are trying to get pregnant. 

Your menopause journey will affect your mental health, and vice versa 

Menopause and perimenopause bring with them mental health changes that occur alongside the physical ones. As your body starts to change, this can bring on feelings of depression, and those who have struggled with depression in the past may find it reoccurs around this stage of life. One study found people with a history of depression could experience perimenopause earlier due to lower estrogen levels. 

Menopause can even exacerbate symptoms of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, as people with these conditions are thought to be more sensitive to hormonal shifts. That’s not to say you should worry if you are approaching menopause; just be aware of the potential for negative emotions to arise so you can speak to your GP if you need to. 

Tracking your cycle is a great way to support your mental health 

Forewarned is forearmed, as they say, and the more info you have about your own cycle, the more you can predict what your mental health will look like each month, and plan ahead to accommodate. It’s also a great reminder to be gentle with yourself!

Tracking your cycle can help with everything from pinpointing peak energy for workouts, to asking for a raise at work when you feel most confident. It’s super useful, and you don’t need to invest in expensive tech to do it. A simple daily diary will allow you to write down any PMS symptoms, emotions, energy levels, and anything else you need to track.

Got a question about how your menstrual cycle and mental health are related? We’re all ears over at our Full Stop FB group, or you can reach out directly on Insta 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, which is one big load off your mind each cycle.

7 Unexpected Ways Your Mental Health & Menstrual Cycle Are In Sync

You may have heard it called skin positivity, acne positivity, or skin neutrality, but the results are in - people are LOVING their skin again. If you’re sick of hating on your own face, it’s time to get a dose of skin positivity. And the best part? It’s free. Let’s look at what it all means, why it’s important, and how to try it...

In recent years people have been falling back in love with their skin and its blemishes, texture, colour, and everything else. Instead of spending hours concealing acne, covering under-eye bags, and trying not to draw attention, people are embracing supposedly ‘imperfect’ skin, and it’s producing a whole new type of confidence. 

According to Stylist, the skin positivity movement began in 2015 when vlogger Em Ford shared a video discussing negative comments she received about her acne. It went viral, and years later even celebs are getting the message. Songwriter Alicia Keys proudly goes makeup-free in photo shoots. Actor Saoirse Ronan left her acne on display in the movie Lady Bird to remove stigma. The #nomakeupselfie trend spread online and raised millions for charities. It’s good times for natural skin! 

British Skin Foundation ambassador Lex Gillies said in Vogue: “Posting a makeup-free selfie (or a filter-free selfie) should not be a radical act, but it certainly feels that way. The more people embrace their real skin online, the sooner we can all accept the fact that every single person has ‘flaws’… perfect skin does not exist.”

Two words: Social. Media. Very few people in today’s world can avoid its gravitational pull, but we’re waking up to the damage it does to confidence. Years ago the conventional beauty standard of flawless skin may only have been apparent to us when we happened upon a magazine. Nowadays we just need to pick up our phone to see what we “should” look like. With photo filters and apps that edit our faces until they’re barely recognisable, it’s no wonder we start to hate how we look in the mirror. 

Research in the British Journal of Dermatology in 2018 found patients with acne had a higher risk of developing major depression. Another study by the British Skin Foundation found 20%+ of respondents said they had thought about or attempted suicide. As more young people join social media (*cough* and apps like TikTok are accused of adding skin filters without asking), it’s not a crazy concept to think skin negativity could get much worse. 

The answer may lie in radical skin positivity, and we’re here for it. 

It’s all about building positive habits. Don’t worry if you don’t want to go makeup-free, you don’t have to. Here are a few other ways to kick-start your positive journey with your skin:

Recognise self-talk: If you look in the mirror and immediately start noticing ‘flaws’, try to distract yourself with something else. It’s not easy to turn negative thoughts into positive, and that’s OK. Silencing the negative is enough, and can produce a more neutral outlook on your skin. Try saying “Nope! Not today, Brain” and walking away.

Focus on things you like: If you don’t consider your skin to be your best feature, we bet there’s something you do like about your body. Love the striking colour of your eyes? Hair that’s always being complimented? Got a noteworthy derrière? Everyone has something they love about their body, so instead of focusing on your skin, give other areas some love and positivity. 

Fill your feed with good images: Social media is a scary place. If you don’t keep it in check it can spiral out of control. Clear your feed of content that doesn’t support your skin positivity goals, and follow hashtags like #skinpositivity, #skinneutral and #acnepositivity that embrace imperfect skin. Look for images that don’t filter skin to make it ‘flawless’, and instead, highlight textured skin - real skin. 

Remember you’re not alone: According to the NHS, around 95% of people aged 11-30 are affected by acne. Ninety-five per cent!! Talk to others who have skin conditions similar to yours, and help make acne feel less isolating. 

Here’s a fun one... give yourself a high five in the mirror: No really, hear us out. There’s research into why this works, and Mel Robbins wrote a whole book about it. The idea is to stop looking for validation from external sources, and instead develop a habit of lifting yourself up every day. Is high fiving yourself in the mirror silly? Absolutely. Are we onboard? Heck yes.  

How is the industry changing to accommodate? 

The beauty and skincare industry has made billions by providing us with products that help ‘fix’ what we perceive as imperfections, but even brands are getting the message now. We’re over feeling like we’re not good enough or don’t measure up to what is considered beautiful. 

In recent years, more brands are embracing our desire for a more natural skin look, and working harder to understand what we need. At Yoppie, for example, our range of sheet masks aims to help people feel confident in their skin throughout their menstrual cycle, rather than making them feel like they should hide away during ‘acne week’! 

Be wary of brands whose adverts rely on making you feel less-than, and shop from those who lift you up, and give you confidence in the skin you’re in. You deserve it. 

Want to tell us how you’re embracing skin positivity? We’d love to hear from you. Our Full Stop FB group loves to talk about topics like this, or you can DM us on Insta at @itsyoppie.  Don't forget that our personalised menstrual care package can get full-cycle care from organic tampons to hydrating face masks (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox so you can get on with enjoying life in your skin!

Why Everyone Needs Skin Positivity

There’s a reason it’s called premenstrual stress, but sometimes your PMS shows up as premenstrual rage (not a real term, we totally made that up…). If you find yourself throwing tantrums on the regular, anger might be the main emotion that shows up for you during menstruation. Here’s why it happens, what could be to blame, and how to handle those dreaded hissy fits...

What’s happening to my hormones during PMS?

PMS is typically experienced in the days or weeks before your period. As well as the physical symptoms, like tiredness, cramps, headaches and acne, you may experience emotional symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, and anger. 

PMS is linked to fluctuating hormones, and during ovulation, estrogen and progesterone levels drop and trigger PMS by influencing serotonin. Serotonin helps regulate your mood and sleep, so low levels can lead to feelings of anger. 

Not everyone feels PMS anger, but it’s one of the most common symptoms - you are not alone in dealing with it. In fact, it’s so prevalent that one study researched it in accordance with the State–Trait Anger Scale (STAS). This scale helps determine “the manner of anger expression”, and the options range from ‘never’ to ‘very’, consisting of the subscales:

‘Constant Anger’ - A high level of anger

‘Anger Control’ - Anger can be controlled

In the study, PMS prevalence was 48.75%, and researchers found ‘Anger Control’ (the ability to control anger) was at a significantly lower level among participants. 

If your anger is more than a passing frustration, you may wish to look into premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD is thought of as a severe form of PMS, with similar physical and emotional symptoms, but with more extreme mood shifts. Psychological symptoms of PMDD include irritability, lack of control, anger, sensitivity and more. 

PMDD can affect up to 8% of people with periods, and in extreme cases has been linked to outbursts of violence, aggression, and antisocial activities. If you think you may have PMDD, speak to your doctor about treating your symptoms. 

How do I know if my PMS anger is a problem?

Anger is a normal human emotion and one we all feel from time to time. Historically, women have been made to feel that expressing anger is somehow wrong, but it’s actually healthy. As long as you are not hurting anyone, you can express anger in whatever way you see fit. However, if your anger is more than an occasional grievance, it’s not serving a purpose and should be addressed. 

What can I do to relieve feelings of PMS anger?

Managing symptoms of PMS anger often starts with staying away from triggering situations or stressful events. It’s not always possible to avoid these, especially if they take place at work or with family, so here are some practical things to help: 

Track emotions: You may see patterns that help validate that hormones are at play, predict mood changes, and allow you to explain symptoms clearly to your GP.

Hormonal birth control: Some types of birth control can balance hormones to relieve symptoms. This won’t work for everyone, but it may take the edge off your anger. 

Avoid triggers: If you think alcohol or other substances may be contributing to PMS anger, try cutting these out to see if you notice an improvement in your mood. 

Lifestyle changes: If you’d prefer a more natural method, make regular exercise part of your routine, eat nutritious foods, and get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. 

Manage stress: Stress management tools like meditation, yoga and breathwork can help, and can be used in many situations. If anger is always directed at the same person or situation, therapy can help as a way to voice emotions in a safe place. 

Herbal supplements: Another natural alternative is to up your supplement game. Yoppie’s Mood Food is designed to regulate mood changes and uses the likes of ashwagandha and vitamin B6 to help calm and balance your mood. 

How do I apologise for an angry PMS outburst? 

So your anger fizzed up at the wrong moment, and you’re feeling guilty about it? We’ve all been there, don’t worry. Firstly, you don’t have to apologise for getting emotional or having a menstrual cycle - this is normal and should never be used to dismiss your feelings. 

However, learning to take responsibility for anger that, in hindsight, you know could be harmful to others, will ensure people you love and interact with daily understand you are trying to improve this symptom. No one wants to be treated like a land mine about to explode, but it may help if people better understand your triggers and boundaries. 

Apologise by acknowledging you were wrong, discuss the cause, say you are sorry for how you handled it, and in future, communicate feelings in a constructive way. If you find yourself apologising frequently, it may be time to address the root cause using the above tips. 

Should I see a counsellor about PMS anger?

If PMS anger is a regular occurrence and negatively affects your life, you can speak to someone about it. There are options like talking therapy, anger management programmes, and even help for violent behaviour. You can find more information and resources on the Mind.org.uk website. 

Do you experience PMS anger? You can discuss your personal symptoms in our private Full Stop FB group, or ask any questions you may have by DM’ing us on Instagram at @itsyoppie. We’re always happy to hear from you! 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 one pretty darn big load off your mind.

Seeing Red? How To Control PMS Anger

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)

Today is the World's Biggest Coffee Morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, and after a tough couple of years of lockdowns and pandemic-induced isolation, it’s clear that much more than the coffee is drawing people to these events - talking to others is a basic human need many people didn’t realise they missed. 

“What’s that got to do with the menstrual cycle?” We hear you ask. Read on to find out… 

The symptoms many people experience during PMS are no different from some illnesses; tiredness, tummy pain, headaches, to name a few. Then there are the ones that seem hand-picked to make us feel less confident in ourselves, like anxiety, bloating, acne, and many more. It’s no wonder we feel rubbish during this time in our cycle. 

Why would anyone want to leave the house and see other people?! The answer is of course, we don’t want to, and there’s a very good reason for this. 

It helps to understand the science behind what you’re feeling. In the Luteal phase of your cycle, hormones are often to blame for low mood and irritability. After ovulation, estrogen and progesterone levels drop, affecting the brain’s neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which influence your mood, sleep, and motivation. When these chemicals drop to low levels, it can lead to sadness, anxiety, trouble sleeping, food cravings, and more. 

In fact, depression is one of the most common symptoms to come along with PMS. Around 50% of people who seek treatment for PMS suffer from depression or anxiety. This is what makes us want to close the curtains and get under the duvet. But is that what we should do? 

There is certainly an argument for being around other people rather than isolating during PMS. One study found that early humans may have evolved their basic language to share ideas and help others develop tools that allowed them to live longer. Perhaps this is the reason socialising in person is thought to affect the parts of our nervous system that release neurotransmitters to calm stress and anxiety. 

“Face-to-face contact releases a whole cascade of neurotransmitters and, like a vaccine, they protect you now, in the present, and well into the future, so simply […] giving somebody a high-five is enough to release oxytocin, which increases your level of trust, and it lowers your cortisol levels, so it lowers your stress.” - Susan Pinker, Psychologist

One study found those undergoing chemotherapy for cancer seem to fare better with access to others going through similar experiences. This could be linked to studies that suggest having good social relationships benefits physical health too, proving a lot of good can come from calling your friend and asking them to come over… and bring chocolate.  

How to socialise when you’re feeling low   

You don’t have to don your best dress and head out to a bar to dance, but you can find ways to socialise on a smaller, more gentle scale. Think of low impact activities you can do with people who energise you rather than drain you. 

Gravitate towards walks, coffee dates, movie nights, and things that won’t zap your energy. Seek out people who you can open up to, who have a supportive, understanding side to them, and will happily remove any expectation from your time together - all you have to do is meet up and chat. 

If you’re really in a funk and can’t imagine leaving your house, phones and video calls could be your friend. We’re not talking about scrolling through Instagram and living vicariously through your friends’ pictures (that will make you feel worse) but reach out to someone you can be open with about how you’re feeling, and schedule a catch-up. 

It may help to talk about what’s on your mind, but if you don’t want to, you may see benefits from talking about anything from the weather to your weekend plans. Think of a phone call with a loved one as taking your medicine, filling up your hot water bottle for belly cramps, or taking your daily Mood Food supplement. It’s something that will improve your mood in the long run, make you feel less alone, and help you feel more connected. 

How to manage low mood if it’s becoming a problem 

If depression is a real problem for you during your PMS days, there are some things you can try. Tracking your symptoms helps you keep an eye on your emotions. Note it all down; sadness, anxiety, food cravings, the lot. This can also help if you choose to speak to your GP, so they have a better idea of your symptoms. 

If you do speak to your GP, there are also hormonal birth control options that could ease symptoms like depression, but remember these can also worsen symptoms, so keep track of how you feel when you start any new medication and communicate with your doctor.

Healthy lifestyle changes can help minimise PMS symptoms too. This could mean a regular exercise routine, less junk food, more sleep, and minimising stress where possible. 

If you find yourself in a deeper depression, speak to your doctor about this, and the possibility of PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder), a more serious form of PMS that is thought to affect between 3% and 8% of people with periods. 

Are you looking for ways to connect with others while your PMS symptoms are at their worst? Drop into our private Facebook group, or send 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 is one worry to take off your mind.

PMS, Mental Health & Socialising

If your skin’s acting up, it’s safe to say that your hormones could be to blame. But you can also thank your hormones for those times of the month when your breakouts ease up, your pores are on point, and your complexion is perfection. 

Week two of your menstrual cycle is where it’s at, and we’re breaking down what your skin is doing during this stage, why it’s the perfect time to exfoliate, and what to use for the ultimate skin renewal. Let’s glow. 

What happens to my body during week two of my cycle? 

You’re probably familiar with the menstrual cycle drill; an egg develops and releases from the ovaries, the lining of the uterus thickens, and if a pregnancy doesn’t occur, that lining sheds and creates a period, and the whole thing starts all over again. The Menstrual phase is when you’re bleeding, followed by the Follicular phase, then the Ovulation phase, then finally the Luteal phase. Keep in mind these can be different for each person. 

Week two is the Follicular phase, and this is when your estrogen levels supercharge and eventually peak to trigger ovulation. There’s usually a bit of overlap between the Menstrual and Follicular phases, but when it finally kicks in, the hypothalamus (a part of the brain) sends a signal to the pituitary gland (sort of like the master gland for the hormones) to send out the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). 

This stimulates the ovaries to produce roughly between 5 and 20 small ‘follicles’, each containing an egg. This phase typically lasts on average 16 days but can be shorter or longer depending on your individual cycle. 

OK, so what’s my skin doing during this time? 

It’s actually behaving itself for a change, that’s what! In all seriousness, your skin is unique to you so you may not find this to be the case, but as a general rule, the Follicular phase is when skin starts to settle down and look its best. 

The increase in hormones not only stimulates the production of follicles, it also stimulates skin cell turnover by producing collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid - all essential for healthy, bright, clear skin. As your bleed comes to an end, you may still have some leftover acne from the week leading up to your period (you know how PMS skin can be), but you’ll likely notice your complexion start to clear up, become less oily, and take on a ‘glow’ as your progesterone levels increase.

The Follicular phase is also when pores tend to become larger as you get closer to the Ovulation phase, which is why exfoliating is key during this time. All in all, it’s not a bad phase for your skin! 

That doesn’t sound so bad. Why do I need to change anything? 

It’s not bad at all, it’s probably when you’ll notice your best skin during the month. While you may not need to do anything differently during this time (especially when you’re younger), starting a solid skincare routine that takes into account everything your hormones are doing will set you up for great skin in future. 

A long term skincare routine helps keep your complexion healthy and allows you to maintain that brightness for longer, so start now - yes, now. 

Sounds good! How exactly do I look after my skin in week two? 

Your Follicular phase skin routine doesn’t need to stray too far from what you normally do if it’s already working for you. A gentle cleanser and moisturiser is key to helping skin settle down from the inflammation of the Menstrual phase, and depending on your skin type, you’ll want to choose a moisturiser that’s oil-free so as not to clog up those slightly larger pores. 

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