You probably have a vague idea of what uterine polyps are based on the name; polyps that form in the uterus. But if you have a hard time picturing them, why they grow there, what symptoms they could cause, how they’re treated, and more, you’re in the right place! We’re doing a deep dive on all things uterine polyps. Let’s take a look in that uterus of yours… 

Uterine polyps sound gross - what are they? 

Uterine polyps are growths that attach to the inner wall of the uterus and extend out into the uterine cavity. As you can imagine, this causes some problems! These polyps form due to an overgrowth of cells in the endometrium (the lining of the uterus), and although they are typically benign - meaning they are noncancerous - some can occasionally be cancerous or turn into cancer over time, so it’s important to know they’re there. 

Uterine polyps can grow to be anything from a few millimetres in size (picture a sesame seed!) to several centimetres in size (a golf ball… yikes), and you could end up with just one or a few of them all at once. In most cases, they stay in the uterus, but they have been known to slip down into the cervix and even further down into the vagina. 

Good question - why do these little nasties decide to grow in your uterus?! There are several risk factors that could determine your likelihood for uterine polyps, which include being perimenopausal or menopausal, having high blood pressure, being obese, and taking certain medications, such as tamoxifen (a drug therapy for breast cancer). 

Uterine polyps tend to grow because of circulating estrogen, so they are mostly found in people who are in the early stages of, or going through, menopause due to the hormonal factors associated with this. 

Mostly, no - they’re nothing to worry about. But in some rare cases they can be, so it’s worth knowing about so you can get them checked out. One study which looked at a total of 1011 women suffering from endometrial polyps found that 95.4% of the polyps were reported as benign (noncancerous), with the others being reported as atypical hyperplasia (a precancerous condition) and only 1.3% being cancerous. 

The symptoms of uterine polyps are pretty similar to many other uterus-related conditions, so may be difficult to diagnose. They include:

Irregular periods (the most common symptom, with around half of people with uterine polyps experiencing this)

An unusually heavy flow during your period

The symptoms above could be a sign of a lot of different conditions, but the best place to start is always to see your GP and let them know what’s been going on. They will likely ask about your period history (your level of flow, regularity, etc.) so tracking this is always handy. Be sure to explain any unusual symptoms you’ve been having, such as the ones listed above. Your doctor may choose to do a gynaecological exam, and/or further tests such as:

A transvaginal ultrasound - where an ultrasound device is inserted into the vagina to see inside the uterus

A sonohysterography - where sterile fluid is introduced into the uterus through a thin tube, which causes the uterus to expand for a clearer image of any growths

A hysteroscopy - when a long, thin tube with a telescope is inserted through the vagina into the uterus, allowing the doctor to examine the inside

An endometrial biopsy - a plastic instrument is used to collect tissue from the inner walls of the uterus and test

Curettage - a long metal instrument collects tissue from the inner walls of the uterus and can scrape tissue or polyps to remove them

Some of these procedures can be used both to diagnose uterine polyps and to treat them - your doctor can recommend which might be best for you. 

I have uterine polyps - how will my doctor treat them?

Treatment isn’t always necessary if the polyps are small and not causing any symptoms, but if they are growing larger, causing heavy bleeding, fertility or pregnancy issues, or could be precancerous or cancerous, then you will likely be recommended to have them removed so they don’t cause further issues. As well as the above procedures, your doctor may also prescribe medications that can help to regulate any hormonal imbalances to relieve and manage symptoms. 

Do you want to know more about uterine polyps?? We’re always happy to answer any additional questions you have, so feel free to shoot them over to us by interacting on our Full Stop FB group, or getting in touch with us over on our Instagram: @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised menstrual cycle subscription box can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and much more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, which at least takes care of some of what's going on down there.

What The Heck Are Uterine Polyps?

Endometriosis is thought to affect as many as 1 in 10 people with periods in the UK, and yet it’s still hard to diagnose. In recent years researchers have been working to further understand endometriosis, and as it turns out, there are multiple different types of endo, as well as multiple stages. We’re breaking it all down, right here… 

A quick recap; endometriosis is a disorder where tissue (similar to the kind that lines the inside of the uterus) grows outside where it’s not supposed to be - mainly around the ovaries, fallopian tubes and inside the pelvis. In rare cases, it may also grow beyond this and affect the organs inside the pelvis, such as the bowel. 

When on your period, endometrial tissue inside the uterus gets thicker, breaks down and exits the body, but when this same tissue grows outside the uterus, the hormones that trigger the menstrual cycle also trigger this excess tissue. The trouble is, after it breaks down it has nowhere to go - hello pain!

Common symptoms of endometriosis include pelvic pain, painful periods, lower back pain, pain during sex, painful poos/urination, excessive bleeding, fertility issues, fatigue, and more.

Are there different types of endometriosis?

Yes! While endometriosis is still a somewhat mysterious condition, it can now be categorised into different types depending on which area of the pelvis or abdomen it affects. These are:

Superficial peritoneal endometriosis - The peritoneum is the thin membrane lining the pelvis and abdomen, and it’s also in contact with organs in these areas. In this case, the endometrial tissue attaches to the peritoneum. Some researchers question whether surgery is the best treatment for this type of endo as it is the least severe. 

Endometriomas - When endo continues to develop over time, it can form endometriomas; dark, fluid-filled cysts affectionately named “chocolate cysts”! They come in many sizes and can grow throughout the abdomen or pelvis, but they are most often found in the ovaries.

Deeply infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) - A scary acronym… but this type isn’t life-threatening. With deeply infiltrating endo, the tissue affects the organs in or outside the pelvis, like the ovaries, rectum, bladder and bowels. Occasionally (in 1-5% of endo cases), scar tissue sticks organs in place, known as “frozen pelvis”. 

Abdominal wall endometriosis - If tissue grows on the abdominal wall, it’s often because cells have attached to scar tissue from a surgical incision, like a C-section.

How do I know which type of endometriosis I have? 

Your doctor may do some examinations such as a pelvic exam to feel for cysts, or an ultrasound to look for any endometriomas, but ultimately the best (and arguably only) way to diagnose endometriosis properly is by a procedure called a laparoscopy. 

A surgeon will make a few small incisions (under general anaesthesia) to insert a tiny camera and instruments to look for signs of endo, take samples, and/or remove some of the affected tissue. This procedure can identify where your endo is, and which type you have. 

What are the different stages of endometriosis?

As well as there being different types of endometriosis, there are also different stages. The American Society of Reproductive Medicine offers the most well-known scale for this, whereby doctors assign ‘points’ depending on the level of spread of endometrial tissue, the depth, and where in the body is affected. Let’s take a look at the stages… 

Stage 1 (minimal) - This is when there are just a few implants (clumps of tissue) or small lesions (affected tissue), and these could be present on the organs or the tissue lining the abdomen or pelvis. In stage 1 there is typically little to no scar tissue.

Stage 2 (mild) - This stage means there are more implants than stage 1, and these are often found deeper in the tissue. There may also be some scar tissue present. 

Stage 3 (moderate) - Stage 3 has a lot of deep implants, and potentially a few small cysts on one or both ovaries. There could also be thick bands of scar tissue called adhesions (the kind that sticks organs together) present in stage 3. 

Stage 4 (severe) - In stage 4, there are lots of deep implants and thick adhesions, as well as large cysts on one or both ovaries. This type is the most widespread, which is why it’s often considered severe. 

I have severe pain - does that mean I’m stage 4??

Not necessarily. The scale doesn’t go by pain, but rather by number of implants, lesions, adhesions and cysts present, which makes it difficult to tell which type of endo is present without a laparoscopy. The stage and type of endo you have don’t actually affect your symptoms, so someone with stage 1 endo may experience more severe pain than someone with stage 4. Confusing? Yes. 

Essentially the scale exists to categorise and make treatment more effective, so just because you have mild pain doesn’t mean you can’t have stage 4 endo. The exception to this rule is fertility issues, since people with stages 3 or 4 have been found more likely to experience trouble getting pregnant than those with stages 1 or 2.

Can I stop my endometriosis from getting worse? 

Unfortunately, endometriosis cannot be prevented, but there are a few ways you can manage your symptoms, such as diet and medications. Endometriosis does sometimes get better by itself, but in many cases it can further develop if not treated, so it’s best to find out the severity of your condition by seeing your doctor.

ot a question about the different types and stages of endo? Let us know so we can create more useful blog posts on the topic! You can chat to 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 cycle subscription box can get Endometriosis supplements, organic tampons & PMS supplements delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, to give you just a bit more peace of mind each cycle.

All The Types & Stages Of Endometriosis

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 and other PCOS 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, PCOS 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

Whether you’re in the market for a new type of birth control, or it’s your first time considering one, there are probably lots of questions floating around your mind. One of them being: ‘what will happen to my period?’ A valid concern! Let’s take a look at the birth control implant, and what’s likely to happen to your period if you opt for this type of contraception…

Birth control innovation has come a long way since it was first introduced back in the 60s (if we’re not counting the early days of using animal skins as condoms - yikes!), and today there are many different options available. If one doesn’t suit your hormones, another might. One popular type of birth control is the contraceptive implant known as Nexplanon; a small, flexible plastic rod that’s inserted under the skin in the upper arm by a medical professional. 

It releases the hormone progestogen into the bloodstream to stop an egg from releasing each month during ovulation, preventing pregnancy for 3 years. It’s also designed to thicken cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to move through the cervix to fertilise an egg. It’s an effective method of birth control for many people, and with the exception of a few health conditions, it is often offered by doctors in the UK for those looking to prevent pregnancy. 

I’m confused… is the implant Implanon or Nexplanon??

Until late 2010, Implanon was the only implant product used in the UK, but this was replaced by Nexplanon, which remains the only brand healthcare providers use today. Nexplanon is bioequivalent to Implanon, but features a new preloaded applicator to reduce the risk of insertion errors, and is radio-opaque, meaning it contains barium so it can be located on an X-ray or CT scan if necessary. Studies cited in this blog post may refer to both Implanon and Nexplanon, but the results are thought to be consistent with both. 

It has many advantages. Firstly, the implant is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, with only around 1 in 3,000 sexually active people using the implant becoming pregnant each year (this is often thought to be because they were already pregnant during insertion). In the majority of studies, no one became pregnant… pretty good odds! 

Other advantages include the fact that it can be used for 3 years without ever having to think about it, it’s pretty easily reversible, it doesn’t contain estrogen (great news for those who cannot use this type of birth control), it doesn’t interrupt sex, it’s safe to use when breastfeeding, and fertility returns quickly after removal. 

What will the implant do to my periods? 

Although it doesn’t happen in all cases, Nexplanon is known to change the bleeding pattern of users, so this is something to keep in mind if you choose to try it out. Studies have found most users experience a reduction in the frequency and volume of bleeding, but some (described as a “substantial minority”), experience unpredictable, frequent, and/or prolonged bleeding which - let’s face it - can be frustrating! In fact, studies show 1 in 10 people stop using the implant due to this unfavourable change in their periods. 

If you already suffer from heavy bleeding, the implant can sometimes be used to lessen the flow as some people experience shorter periods or none at all. You may also experience spotting between periods (the most common side effect, in fact), brown discharge, or irregular periods, particularly in the first 6-12 months of use. 

What’s the likelihood I’ll end up with lighter/heavier periods on the implant?

Although there is no way to tell without trying the implant out for yourself, one interesting study found the percentage of subjects who experienced different negative and positive effects from the implant:

Fewer bleeding/spotting days than with a natural cycle (but at unpredictable intervals) - 75% 

Stopped using the implant due to period irregularities - 11.3%

Saw significant improvements in dysmenorrhoea (painful periods) - 77%

Could the implant cause any symptoms I should be worried about? 

Irregular periods (or any of the above irregularities) are considered normal and probably nothing to worry about, but if anything is painful or negatively affecting your life, you can speak to your doctor at any time to make sure everything’s OK. 

Common side effects that cause people to consider having the implant removed include mood swings, weight gain, headaches, acne and depression, so if you experience any of these symptoms you can speak to your GP about switching to another type of birth control instead. And always see your doctor right away if you experience sudden unexplained bleeding, or if you think you may be pregnant. 

I’m not a fan of the irregular bleeding - can I get the implant removed? 

Irregular bleeding isn't a problem for some people but may cause distress if you prefer to know exactly when your period will arrive each month so you can prepare. Studies show 1 in 10 people had the implant removed due to changes in their bleeding patterns, so don’t be afraid to explore other options if it’s not for you - you can have it removed at any time. 

If you have had it for more than 3 months (the time recommended to allow your hormones to settle) and you still feel it’s not for you, speak to your doctor or the sexual health clinic where you had the implant inserted and discuss removal and other options. 

Got a question about the birth control implant we haven’t covered here? Chat to other users in the Full Stop FB group, or get in touch 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, whatever your flow.

Periods On The Implant: Effects Of The Birth Control Implant

Confession time: I am so over talking about periods. Stay with me here! As the founder of a period care company this statement probably makes no sense, but what I mean is, I’m sick of talking only about periods. Our 100% organic, plastic-free pads and tampons will always be at the core of our range, but we want to focus on more than the bleed week and shine a light on the other three phases of your menstrual cycle.

As we launch the next phase of Yoppie’s journey, I wanted to introduce it to you myself; we’re empowering you to ride every single phase of your cycle, from bleed to egg drop and back again. We’ve got a whole new outlook on what it means to menstruate, and I’m excited to share our new direction with you.

Here’s what’s happening at Yoppie… 

Why we’re no longer talking about (just) periods

We’ve spent years perfecting our tampons and pads, and they’re pretty perfect, if I do say so myself! But the more we speak to our community about what you really need and want each month, the more we realise it’s time for the next phase of our journey to begin. 

We’re reimagining the entire menstrual cycle, from the energetic follicular phase to the troublesome luteal phase and beyond, to make sure you (yes, you) have the ability to take full control of every symptom your cycle throws at you. How? By tuning in to what your body needs at all times, and giving it exactly that. And if you’re thinking “wait, but how do I know what my body needs?!”... that’s what your personalised Yoppie dashboard is for. 

We’re helping you tune in to your cycle 

For too long the only question you needed to ask yourself was “is it a regular or a super-absorbent tampon kinda day?”. And while that might work for some, I’m guessing you’re here because your cycle isn’t as neat and punctual as historical period ads would have you believe. (I mean seriously, why are women always playing tennis?!)

It’s time to stop letting Mother Nature get the better of you, and take control of your cycle. Not just the bleed week, all of it. The acne days. The anxious days. The days when you can barely make it off the couch let alone do a HIIT class. Instead of plugging up on bleed days and pretending the rest of it’s not happening… what if you listened to your body and provided what it needs to feel happy, healthy and confident at each phase? Here’s a quick look at what’s going on during your cycle:

Want to learn what phase you’re in right now? Click here to find out, and share yours on IG tagging @itsyoppie with #MYPHASE for the chance to WIN exclusive merchandise every week. 

We’re turning up the volume on personalisation

… and turning down the friction on understanding your own individual cycle. In the (sort of) words of Forrest Gump; period care shouldn’t be like a box of chocolates, you should know what you’re going to get. Personalised cycle care should not require a trip to the doctors and an expensive hormone test. Quality information should be readily available to you, and quality products should be easily accessed without leaving the comfort of home. 

We’ll always offer our 100% organic, eco-conscious bleed products, game-changing PMS supplements, hormonal skincare masks and science-backed info on our Full Stop blog, but we’ve got a few new things up our sleeve for those dealing with specific conditions as well as our brand new ‘shop by symptom’ function on our website. These updates move us closer to ensuring absolutely everyone can treat Yoppie as a one-stop-shop for their cycle.

Your menstrual cycle is unique to you so a one size fits all just won’t do.  Let us recommend what is best for you and your cycle by answering a series of questions about your cycle so we can create your perfect menstrual health plan here. Login & manage at any time on your dashboard.

Help us create the future of menstrual healthcare! If there’s something you want to see in our range or a problem we might be able to help you solve, we’d love to hear it. Get in touch in our private Facebook group, or reach out to @itsyoppie on Insta to tell us what you think.

It's Time To Ride Your Cycle: Your WHOLE Cycle

So your period’s arrived, but you’re not due for another three days… why isn’t your cycle syncing up with the calendar you’ve been keeping? It might not be your imagination after all. Let’s take a look at why your menstrual cycle may be getting shorter, what this could mean, and if it’s anything to worry about. 

How long is my menstrual cycle supposed to be? 

… how long is a piece of tampon string?? No two people have the same cycle, so while you might have short and light periods, someone else might have long and heavy ones. Whatever the case, it’s totally normal. 

Your cycle is counted from day 1 of your bleed through to day 1 of your next bleed. This can last anywhere from 21 to 35 days, with a bleed lasting anything from 2 to 7 days. Your cycle may also be irregular due to your age, as it tends to be somewhat unpredictable in the first few years of menstruating. For some, an irregular cycle is normal.

You may not be imagining it. Your menstrual cycle can get shorter, so if you have always experienced a fairly regular cycle and notice your bleed days coming a lot sooner than anticipated, then there is often a reason this is happening. 

Your menstrual cycle is made up of four phases (the menstruation, follicular, ovulation and luteal phases) - it’s the ovulation phase that’s in question here. When an egg is released from the ovary during ovulation, the follicle from which it came produces progesterone to thicken the uterine lining so a fertilised egg can implant. If this doesn’t happen, the follicle dies, progesterone levels fall, and a period occurs. If something affects ovulation, you may get your period sooner. 

In lots of cases shorter periods are common and nothing to worry about, and could simply indicate one of the following:

A change in birth control - if you have just started or recently switched to another type of birth control, this could alter the length of your cycle

You’re still going through puberty - Those who have just started having periods may experience a shorter than average cycle 

You’re in perimenopause - When in your 40s, the ovaries will slow their production of estrogen, leading to potentially shorter and lighter periods until menopause

You’re breastfeeding - If you have recently given birth or are breastfeeding, your hormones will change and you may experience a shorter cycle, or no periods at all

You’re on a new medication - Some anti-inflammatory medications reduce the production of prostaglandins (chemicals that trigger the uterus to contract and shed its lining), and have occasionally been found to delay periods by a couple of days

If none of these apply to your situation, and your periods have become shorter over several months, then it’s worth getting your GP to check for the following conditions:

PCOS - One of the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome is irregular periods. If you also experience weight gain, excess body hair, hair loss on the head, acne, fertility issues or other odd symptoms, speak to your doctor to rule this out

Uterine scarring - This can occur due to a condition called Asherman’s syndrome, which happens after certain medical procedures or treatments. Scar tissue forms in the uterus and decreases the amount of space inside, leading to shorter periods

Thyroid disorder - This condition affects the thyroid gland which is responsible for metabolism, by making the thyroid hormone travel via your blood to the rest of the body. Those with a thyroid disorder may get symptoms including irregular periods

Implantation bleeding - Shorter periods are sometimes reported in the very early stages of pregnancy, as the blood that appears due to the egg implanting in the uterus is often mistaken for an early period

Physical or mental stress - Stress is often overlooked as a source of period issues, but has been found to affect the cycle. Whether you’re exercising excessively (physical stress), or you’re stressed about work life (mental stress), this can trigger your cycle to change and potentially shorten

Short periods generally aren’t a worry, but if you’re used to a regular cycle and notice your periods continue to come earlier than expected (and you’re not going through puberty or perimenopause) then this could be something to speak to your doctor about, just in case.

You should always see your doctor if your periods stop suddenly and don’t come back for more than 90 days (and you’re not pregnant), your bleed lasts more than 7 days, you start to bleed more heavily than usual or soak through more than one pad or tampon every hour or two, you notice spotting between periods, or you get severe pain during your period. 

One of the best things you can do for your cycle is to track it to find out what’s normal for you. Use a calendar to note your bleed days and any symptoms arising throughout the month. Note how long your period lasts, how light or heavy it is, how often you need to change tampons or towels, and so on. Having a clear indication of these changes can help your doctor find out what’s going on.

What can I do about an irregular cycle? 

If your cycle is annoyingly irregular and you’ve already ruled out any underlying conditions or reasons, then birth control pills could help to regulate your cycle. Your doctor may recommend these but if not, ask for more information to find out what’s right for you.  

In summary, shorter periods are probably fine! But it doesn’t hurt to check if you’re worried. If you have any questions about irregular periods we haven’t answered here, 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 cycle care subscription box can get organic tampons, PMS supplements, and much more. delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, so you're never caught short on the essentials.

Wait A Minute... Is My Menstrual Cycle Getting Shorter?

Periods tend to hog all the attention when talking about our monthly cycle. They’re a bit like the demanding boss of the menstrual phases. I mean, blood is hard not to notice and you sure can’t miss cramps (gawd, cramps!), but what about the rest of our cycle? Heck, what’s going down in our bodies between the bleeding every month?

Understanding this and how hormones play a part can be empowering. In this article we’re gonna talk about our cycle patterns and the hormones that rule them. Helping you harness that knowledge to your advantage!

To give you a taster of what we’re going to cover in more detail, check out our bitesize chunk below. If you like what you read, keep going as you ain’t seen nothin’ yet. 

The low down on your cycle squeezed into some handy bullet points:

Follicular phase (Known in some circles as spring!)

Your body is workin’ hard to push you out of your period slump and get schmoozing again. Embrace burgeoning energy and enjoy that oestrogen boost!

Ovulation (Think of it as the summer of your cycle!)

All three sex hormones are pumping and you’re a force to be reckoned with. You’re a social butterfly, a powerhouse at work and in the bedroom. You are primed and ready to catch any swimmers that come your way during this fertile window! Enjoy it.  

Luteal phase  (Heading back into autumn)

Right now you’re winding down from summer with progesterone. Don’t feel guilty taking extra time for self-care, relaxing alone and catching up on the jobs you were too busy for in summer. 

Your hormones finally dip and the blood arrives. If you have difficult periods, take time to rest and eat well. Keep exercise routines chilled and let your body renew and restore.

Wanna take a closer look? Ok, let’s go. 

Hormones, what have you done for me lately? 🤔

We may bash our hormones in exasperated tones, “Ughh hormones!” when we’re complaining about our mood, the state of our skin and more. But they don’t deserve the bad rep.

These brilliant chemical messengers are secreted by our glands. Travelling through our bodies via our bloodstream to organs and tissues, they give essential instructions on processes that need to be carried out to regulate our health and behaviour. Obviously hormones aren’t the only factor determining how we feel, but they certainly play into what’s going on in our everyday lives.

Here, we’ll be concentrating on the hormones that rule our reproductive cycle; The big 3

A menstrual cycle pattern usually lasts around 28 days but this can vary, depending on the person. Your cycle may even rarely be the same length, fluctuating each month.

Menstrual cycle patterns revolve around these two main events:

Ovulation (when your body grows and releases an egg)

These events are both part of four phases including:

Follicular phase - oestrogen rules the roost to help your eggs get ready for ovulation.

Luteal phase - progesterone comin’ in hot leading up to menstruation.

Period - when you bleed as your cycle ends and begins again!

Rather than a list, try and imagine the phases flowing in a circle...

Hormonal fluctuations in our bodies during each of these phases trigger physical and emotional changes. They can affect how your skin looks, how you cope with stress, how horny you’re feeling and what kind of discharge appears in your underwear.

Likewise, your cycle can be affected by life events, your overall health, those ten G&T’s you consumed over the weekend, weight gain, your yoga class, all that great sex… you name it!

That’s why working with our hormones (when possible) can give us a powerful advantage. Tracking these changes in your own body as you move through your cycle can give you a really interesting insight into how and why our body does what it does!(1) 

A few days after the first day of your period, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinising hormone) are released. These hormones prompt your ovaries to produce from 15-20 eggs, each housed in their own follicle. (2) Right now, they’re growing and competing on the lead up to ovulation as - usually - only one egg will be released! It’s a bit like America’s top model for eggs… only the best make it down the fallopian tube catwalk.

As one follicle begins to dominate and outgrow the rest it starts pumping out oestrogen, reducing FSH. It also helps your uterine lining develop, ready for the possibility of a fertilised egg. You could also notice an increase in cervical fluid and vaginal lubrication as your body moves towards ovulation in the second week. 

As oestrogen levels begin to rise, this can have the effect of and making you feel more energetic, motivated and sociable.

In purely biological terms, you’re being encouraged to get out there and find a suitable match to fertilise your eggs. Obviously, not everyone wants a cycle to lead to pregnancy and we’re far more than reproductive vessels! But, this doesn’t mean it’s not a great time to get out and about, arrange to catch up with friends and ease out of period hibernation.

Oestrogen is increasing blood flow to your vagina and you may notice cervical fluid becomes clear, slippery and stretchy. Some people refer to it as ‘egg-white’ cervical mucus, because if you stretch it between your fingers it looks suspiciously like egg whites! Oestrogen has now reached its peak. Enter LH (luteinising hormone) and testosterone. 

Just before ovulation, there’s an LH surge, halting oestrogen production (2). This prompts the lead egg to burst from its follicle and sashay down the fallopian tubes. It’s here that it can be fertilized by any sperm hanging around!

All three female sex hormones collaborating can make you feel a little bit invincible! You’re feeling sexier, hornier and more confident. You could notice your skin looking clearer than usual, your features more symmetrical, and feeling more adventurous. Time to wear that super-hot outfit! Testosterone can also boost physical performance which is great for anyone hitting the track or gym. 

Some people notice a little bit of cramping at this time, like they actually feel their egg shooting out of the ovary! This doesn't usually last longer than about 24-48 hours though. 

What happens during the luteal phase? 📈

Progesterone begins to rise and peaks in the middle of this phase (usually around day 21 in a 28-day cycle). At the start, oestrogen is also still high (2). 

Whether you’ve conceived or not, oestrogen and progesterone get busy prepping the inner lining of the uterus to receive and nourish a fertilized egg.

Progesterone can sometimes slow you down, making you feel more introverted and inclined to nights in. But it can also help you feel calm, more relaxed and just happy to just enjoy time on your own. This might be a great time to schedule cosy one-on-ones with friends, nourishing home-cooked meals or just chilling at home with popcorn and a great movie.

If you experience PMS, this can mean tender breasts, bloating, tiredness, feeling irritable or low and craving certain foods. Chocolate, anyone?

A period is both the start and the end of a hormonal cycle. Oestrogen and progesterone reduce to their lowest levels of the cycle.

A sharp drop in progesterone  levels trigger your uterus lining to shed, resulting in a period. After the lining has shed, your cycle begins again. (Although, when tracking your cycle always start from the first, not the last day of your period.)

Mood - Don’t even go there 🙅‍♀️

Without the calming effect of progesterone, you may be feeling tearful, tired, emotional, anxious or unsettled. You can also feel that the arrival of your period is a relief! Ending the bloating and the emotional rollercoaster that’s sometimes felt at this stage in the cycle.

Not everyone has an identical cycle, but observing these monthly changes can make you feel more in control and in tune with your body; always a good thing in our book! You've got enough going on at that time of the month (and heck, all through the month) so don't forget that our personalised full cycle menstrual care box can get organic cotton tampons, PMS supplements, and much more, delivered through your letterbox, whatever phase you're in.

Fact checked by Doctor Brooke Vandermolen.

Understand All The Phases of Your Menstrual Cycle

Your menstrual cycle is lots of fun; mood swings, cramps, bloating, and as if that wasn’t enough… your skin flares up while on your period. Not everyone experiences challenges with their skin throughout their cycle, but we’re willing to bet that at the very least you’ve noticed some changes in your complexion, such as acne and oily skin. Thanks, hormones! Here’s everything you need to know about your skin during your menstrual cycle, and how the hormones oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone affect it...

Oestrogen is most prominent during the first half of your cycle (around the first 10-16 days), and stimulates the production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid in your skin. Throughout this time, oestrogen levels rise slowly, and you might notice that your skin looks and feels plump, hydrated, and all-round clear. You may also notice your mood lift during this time due to increasing levels of serotonin. Around day fourteen you will start ovulation, which is when your skin tends to behave itself and you might feel that it looks its best. 

Progesterone can be a tad problematic for skin. When levels of this hormone start to increase in the second half of your cycle, you may experience oilier skin as it stimulates the production of sebum. We all know this can lead to an unwanted buildup of oil, and as a result, breakouts come knocking.

The medical term for having oily skin is ‘seborrhea’, and it’s easy to blame this on our periods, but it’s important to remember that there can be many other factors playing a role when it comes to sebum levels. Changing weather, sun exposure, overuse of skin care products, and of course good old fashioned genetics are all examples. 

During the second half of your cycle, remember that the increase in luteinizing hormones (that control the ovaries) can make skin prone to bacteria, so always remove your makeup at night, and regularly wash your hands to avoid the spread of acne.

Testosterone is present throughout your cycle, and when oestrogen and progesterone levels lower during your period, testosterone becomes the most prominent hormone. It tends to stimulate the sebaceous glands and produce more sebum, which can clog pores and cause acne. Again?! Yup, some months your skin just can’t catch a break! 

Those with higher levels of androgens (testosterone is one) throughout their cycle, such as women who suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), are more likely to experience things like excess hair growth and acne.

It’s important to know that not all acne is hormone-related, and everything from stress to diet can influence your skin day to day, so consider all possibilities before you condemn your hormones. If, however, you experience problematic skin on a recurring monthly basis, hormones could be to blame. Everyone experiences some level of fluctuation in their complexion throughout the month, but monthly acne and irritated skin can be frustrating and disheartening. Just remember, you're not defined by your skin, but we get it. It’s normal to want to do something to fix the issue. 

To help release your skin-inducing stress, the first thing to try is keeping a skin diary that focuses on your menstrual cycle, and look for patterns. After a few months of this, you will begin to recognise specific days or weeks that pose the biggest issues, and can therefore adjust your skincare routine accordingly, as well as discuss options with your GP or dermatologist. Some women are prescribed hormonal birth control for the sole purpose of regulating problem skin throughout the month, so if this is of interest to you don’t be afraid to ask your doctor and explore your options.

Got questions about hormones and your skin? We’d love to hear about your experience so we can help others who suffer from this condition. Head on over to our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our full cycle menstrual care box can get organic tampons, exfoliating masks, and other hormonal skin and PMS care, delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox. That's one less thing to break out over!

How Hormones Affect Your Complexion Throughout The Month

Your menstrual cycle has a butterfly effect that impacts so many parts of your life. We’ve already covered how it can affect your sex life (read it here!), but what about everything else? From food habits, to relationships, here are a few more things to consider when it comes to your period and beyond. 

We’ve all succumbed to the call of the chocolate in the cupboard during our period! The craving struggle is real, and a 2016 study suggests food cravings come thanks to hormones, particularly the ones at play during the luteal phase. Not only do we often crave more food, but we crave specific foods due to hormones like leptin which affect taste sensitivity. This means we tend to lean towards the sugary, carby, salty variety. 

One study suggests that people eat more food per day in the 10 days after they ovulate, than during the 10 days before, and food cravings typically happen around 7-10 days before your period begins, just in time to run parallel with other PMS symptoms like changing bowel habits, headaches, acne, bloating and more. Great timing, hormones! All these things make you less likely to stick to a healthy diet, and instead, seek out comfort food in the name of making yourself feel better. 

Plan ahead by having healthy alternatives in the cupboards, and don’t be hard on yourself by denying cravings - remember your mental health is just as important. 

It’s perfectly safe to exercise during your period. If you lose a lot of blood each month then you may want to rest more, in order to let your body replenish before doing any strenuous exercise, but for the most part, being active is encouraged during your period. The problem is, most of us probably won’t feel like it. 

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