Isn’t it about time we start celebrating vulvas instead of treating them like a taboo subject? That’s what artist Lydia Reeves is doing, and we are loving it.  

Lydia is a body casting artist based in Brighton, UK, and the creator of The Vulva Diversity Project; a 200-strong collection of vulva casts and 100 stories from their owners, all sharing their insecurities and journeys with this intimate and rarely-discussed part of the body. At Yoppie, we love to talk about all things vagina, so this was right up our street. Our editor Caitlin caught up with Lydia to find out more about the project, the most common insecurities, and how we can all feel better about our vulvas.

“Labiaplasty is now the fastest growing cosmetic surgery around the world.” (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery)

Hey Lydia! Tell us about your background, and how you came to start the Vulva Diversity Project?

I’ve always had an arty background. I studied Fine Art at uni, and have continued with art since I graduated over 6 years ago. My art has always involved bodies, periods, and basically anything I feel people should speak about more. 

I started The Vulva Diversity Project because, growing up, I was severely insecure about my body, and my vulva was the one place I was most insecure about. It affected my teenage years and even my adult years in terms of who I slept with and who I let in. This project stemmed from those feelings, as I wanted to do something that would help people celebrate their vulvas, and not go through what I went through. I want to show the huge variety, because as a straight woman growing up, I just didn’t see other vulvas, apart from in porn - and I think a lot of people are in the same boat.

“In 2016, 45 per cent more labiaplasty procedures were carried out than in 2015, according to data gathered by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)... Concerns [have been] raised over young girls choosing to have surgery on their genitals because of body insecurities that stem from social media and pornography. Leading adolescent gynaecologist Dr Naomi Crouch [says] girls as young as nine were seeking the cosmetic procedure because they were distressed by the appearance of their vulva.” (Independent.co.uk)

Labiaplasty is now the fastest growing cosmetic procedure in the world. Why do you think this is?

Even if we leave porn out of it for a minute, if you grow up without seeing another vulva, you could think “oh, they must all look like mine”. A lot of people who came in to get cast have said this. We know every face is different, so why do we think all vulvas look the same? 

Other common thoughts are “Is mine normal? Do other people look like this? What is it meant to look like?” When I first Googled this I saw before and after pictures of labiaplasty, and that’s not going to put anyone’s mind at ease if they look like the ‘before’ image. 

I think in recent years there may be a more diverse range of vulvas in porn, but certainly when I was young, all you saw was the classic ‘pornstar’ vulva; very tiny labia, tiny clitoris, all pink, no hair, pink bum hole! People might seek out labiaplasty because they feel like they need to be ‘fixed’ or made ‘more desirable’. Children are researching labiaplasty as early as nine years old… you’ve barely started puberty at nine. 

Even if you don’t see, for example, boobs in the flesh, you know all boobs are different to some degree because you can tell, even under a jumper; big boobs, small boobs, saggy boobs, and so on. You can roughly see the shape even when they’re covered up, and the same can be said about other parts of the body, but your vulva is this place of mystery! 

“According to NHS figures, in 2015-16, more than 200 girls under 18 had labiaplasty and more than 150 of the girls were under 15.” (BBC.co.uk)

Are people nervous to get their vulva cast?

It depends on the individual; some are completely comfortable getting their vulva out, they just don’t care, but that same person may be shy about getting their boobs out, and vice versa. I always chat to them for a while about why they decided to come for a cast, their background, any insecurities they have, and I share my story too if I feel it’s appropriate, so they understand why I’m doing this. Before anyone has taken any clothes off I always make sure we get to know each other better, so it’s not as nerve-racking. I don’t want anyone to feel like they just walk in, meet me and take their pants off - it’s a much more friendly process!

Alongside the casting, you ask subjects to write about their relationship with their vulva. What are the most common insecurities you’ve read? 

When I started the project, I naively thought everyone would have the same insecurities as me. Just as people thought all vulvas are the same, I somehow thought all the insecurities would be too. I was surprised that everyone had a completely different story. 

It’s hard to pinpoint the most common, because the stories are all so different. To give you an idea, I’ve had a lot of stories about overcoming sexual abuse, insecurities about the size of labia, stories about parents taking them to the doctor because they think their vulva looks weird, which shows a lack of education on the part of parents. I’ve had a few non-binary people come in, and a transgender woman who was born with a penis, and has had surgery to have a vulva in her later years. I’ve also had a man come in who was born with a vulva, and still has one. 

All the stories have been super interesting, and I’ve got a book in progress with an index of over 50 topics that have been spoken about, with page numbers so people can read about specific stories.

“A labiaplasty is surgery to reduce the size of the labia minora – the flaps of skin either side of the vaginal opening. Some women want a labiaplasty because they do not like the look of their labia. But it's completely normal to have noticeable skin folds around the opening of your vagina.” (NHS.uk)

We love that you are able to showcase vulvas in such a creative and beautiful way. What were you hoping to achieve with the project, and what do you hope people can take from it?

I want to show the aesthetic side, and that vulvas are so different, but also share the stories behind them. There could be two vulvas that look similar, but those two people may have gone through something entirely different. I think it’s just as important to share the stories so people can read them and maybe discover something they have in common.

My exhibition has been postponed to next summer due to COVID-19, but I’m also in the process of making a book with photographs of all 200 casts, and 100 of the stories collected. Since exhibitions are location-dependent, the book will allow these stories to be shared worldwide - hopefully it will spark many interesting conversations. 

I'm hoping this will help people feel less alone in how they feel about their vulva, or what they have been through. I’m hoping it starts conversations between friends and families, but if people don’t want to talk about it, they can still read the stories and take something valuable from it. Even if they don’t relate to any of it, it’s about realising that everyone looks different, has been through something different, and feels different - and it’s all completely normal and OK.

This is such an important thing for young girls to see. Do you think young boys can benefit too? 

Absolutely. This isn’t just for people who have vulvas, I think this can be so educational for everyone. Every sex, every age, whatever anyone might have been through, it’s for everyone. 

There is a huge lack of education about the variety of vulvas and experiences. A handful of people who came in to get cast said their insecurity stemmed from a man or boy making a nasty comment about their vulva. Some people just don’t know that every vulva is different, and it would be super helpful if everyone was educated on this.

How can we as a society solve the issue of vulva insecurities?

Another project I’m working on with a friend of mine is trying to get this education and my vulva casts into schools. It’s all fine being educated as an adult, but by then you might have years of negative thoughts to unpick. If you learn that all vulvas are different when you’re young, you might not develop the negative thoughts in the first place. Even if it’s just one lesson in your whole time at school, I think that would be a huge improvement. 

I think it’s about talking - talk to your friends, talk to your kids, educate as much as possible. I’d love to bring this into schools and show my casts. I think a lot of kids think it’s embarrassing to talk about, but when something is spoken about by a teacher, it becomes less of a big deal. I know I wouldn’t have wanted to talk about it as a kid because I was shy, but I would have sat in the lesson and thought “Oh, it’s OK, I’m normal!” - sometimes that’s all it takes.

What advice would you have for a young person with insecurities about their vulva?

Luckily, nowadays one of the pros of social media is that more people are talking about the issue and there are lots of great accounts now to do with vulva positivity, varieties of vulvas, and so on. I would say get to know yourself, and look at your own. I think a lot of people avoid ever looking down there and hide it away, and I don’t think that helps. Even if you initially don’t like what you see, get to know yourself, how you look and how you work - all of that will be so helpful for the future. 

If you can, just talk to people. Ask your friends. I know that’s quite a big thing for some people, and they might not feel comfortable with it, but if you have a close friend that you can discuss insecurities with, that can sometimes be a life-changing conversation. Even if your friend doesn’t have insecurities of their own, you can still have a conversation, and perhaps feel like a weight has been lifted when you speak about it out loud. 

And also… buy my upcoming book when it’s out! I’m hoping it will help and encourage body positivity.

Absolutely! Where can people find you and stay updated about the project and your book? 

I’m on Instagram at @lydiareeves_artist, and there’s more information on my website. There’s a whole section on The Vulva Diversity Project. Also, the project I’m running with my friend, where we’re trying to get this into schools, is called The What Is Normal Project. You can find it on Instagram @whatisnormalproject.

If you're curious about genital confidence or what vulvas can look like, ask away over on Instagram at @itsyoppie! Don't forget that Yoppie's personalised period subscription box can get organic cotton tampons, PMS supplements, and much more, delivered through your letterbox. That's a few less things to worry about each cycle.

Meet Lydia Reeves, Creator Of The Vulva Diversity Project

In an ideal world, we’d all have an app on our phone with a period ‘start/stop’ button. Cool to begin menstruating? Click ‘start’. Heading out in a pair of white trousers? Click ‘stop’ and enjoy a blood-free day… the dream!

But of course, life doesn’t work that way. As fate would have it, the times when we want our period least tend to be the times when Mumma Nature kicks in. That’s why some people turn to period delay tablets. While there’s no guaranteed way to delay your period, some do find these effective. If you’ve never heard of them, we’re breaking down what they are, why people use them, how they work, and of course their safety and side effects.

What are period delay tablets and where do you get them? 🤔

They come under different names, but most use a synthetic hormone called Norethisterone, which is similar to the progesterone our bodies produce naturally. With a normal menstrual cycle, progesterone levels fall which triggers the lining of your uterus to shed, therefore causing blood to leave your body. By taking Norethisterone, you maintain the levels of progesterone in your system, and this can lead to a postponement of this shedding. Goodbye period. 

It’s not just for holidays and weddings either; many women may want to delay their period for cultural reasons such as in the Muslim faith and Judaism. Having your period may prevent you from fulfilling certain religious customs, or having intercourse with a partner for a certain period of time. So, even more reason that having some ways to control when your period begins can be empowering for women everywhere! 

There are many reasons people may wish to delay their period, with some of the most common being:

Upcoming social events (we’ve all got that one dress that isn’t period-compatible!)

Particularly stressful life events (for example, moving house)

Basically anything that falls outside the norm of daily routine could arguably be made easier without the added complication of cramps, bloating, and changing tampons or pads regularly.

Different types of tablets may have different instructions, but in most cases the pills contain the hormone progesterone. You would take them around three days before your period is due to begin, or around cycle day 25, and continue to take them for around 20 days after. When you stop, you should expect to get your period around two to four days later.

Is it the same as taking the combined pill? 💊

Not really. If you are taking norethisterone for the purpose of delaying your period, this may not be at the same dose used in contraception. Also, the combined pill contains the hormone oestrogen. That being said, people who use the combined pill for birth control can also delay their periods depending on which type they are taking. Continuous-use options mean you are taking hormonal birth control constantly, with no breaks between packs. Without breaks, you’re unlikely to have any bleeding, and therefore can avoid having a period. 

Extended-use options mean you would normally have a break between packs, which is when your period would come. By taking the next pack immediately after the first, you can delay your period for as long as a month. 

Newer evidence suggests that you don’t necessarily need a pill-free interval, like you used to with traditional versions of the combined pill that advise you to mimic your menstrual cycle and have a week off every month.(1)  If you are unsure of which type of pill you are taking, or want to discuss options for delaying your period, speak to your GP.

Norethisterone is generally considered safe for most people, but it’s always best to chat to your doctor about this, as in some cases it is not advised. For example, if you or your family have a history of blood clots. (2)

While it is not considered dangerous, you should not take more than the given number of tablets, and should not rely on Norethisterone as a way of delaying your period long-term. It’s intended for use on an occasional basis, not permanently. 

Oh and by the way… Norethisterone prescribed for the purpose of delaying your period is not the same as using it for contraception, as it is usually designed so it doesn't interfere too much with your hormone levels and fertility. Therefore you should not rely on it as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy. It is not a replacement for birth control. 

As with many hormonal medications, Norethisterone can cause some side effects. Things to watch out for are; low mood, acne, breast tenderness, fluid retention, low sex drive, and even nausea and headaches. If you experience excessive side effects it is best to have your GP check that everything’s OK, and if you should continue taking them. 

If you delay your period, whether by using Norethisterone or from taking back-to-back combined pill packets, you may experience something called ‘breakthrough bleeding’. This means unexpected bleeding due to hormonal fluctuations, and while it can be annoying, it’s usually nothing to worry about.(3) 

At the end of the day, the effectiveness of period delay tablets varies with each person, so you may find they work for you, and if they don’t, speak to your GP about other options.

Have you ever taken period delay tablets? We’d love to hear more about your experience! Let us know on Instagram at @itsyoppie. You've got enough going on at that time of the month, whenever it happens, so don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic cotton tampons, and much more, delivered through your letterbox. That's a few less things to worry about each cycle!

Edelman  A, Micks  E, Gallo  MF, Jensen  JT, Grimes  DA. Continuous or extended cycle vs. cyclic use of combined hormonal contraceptives for contraception. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2014, Issue 7. Art. No.: CD004695. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD004695.pub3.

Mansour D Safer prescribing of therapeutic norethisterone for women at risk of venous thromboembolism Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care 2012;38:148-149.

Dean J, Kramer KJ, Akbary F, et al. Norethindrone is superior to combined oral contraceptive pills in short-term delay of menses and onset of breakthrough bleeding: a randomized trial. BMC Womens Health. 2019;19(1):70. Published 2019 May 28. doi:10.1186/s12905-019-0766-6

Fact checked by Doctor Brooke Vandermolen.

The Lowdown: How Safe Are Period Delay Tablets?

If you’re one of the thousands of people in the UK who have signed up for Go Sober for October, committed to Dry January or otherwise pledged to quit booze for a month (or longer), good on you! For some it’s a breeze, and for others it’s quite a struggle to go a while without a drink. However easy or difficult you may be finding it, it can do wonders for your health and overall wellbeing.  

But what about when you’re on your period? Many of us will likely drink as normal throughout our cycle, but could your hormones affect your alcohol consumption, and vice versa? Let’s take a look-see.

Yup, we got the short straw here girls. It’s common knowledge that a woman’s blood alcohol level will almost always be higher than a man’s, even when they have consumed the same amount. This is a fact confirmed by Drinkaware, and it’s because women tend to have a smaller build than men, with a higher proportion of body fat. This hasn’t always been known, as prior to the 1990s most alcohol research deliberately excluded women due to the instability of their menstrual cycle.

Jenny Valentish, author of the book Woman of Substances, found a connection between our menstrual cycles and alcohol habits, which could be the key to helping more women with alcoholism get the help and treatment they need. During her research, she actually found that female recovering alcoholics are more likely to relapse due to hormones affecting the way female bodies crave and absorb alcohol.

That’s also why research suggests that when we experience PMS, we may find ourselves drinking more alcohol during this time, as we attempt to booze away our bad mood.

Don’t drink and bleed! Just kidding. But let’s get one thing straight before we go further: a little bit of alcohol is rarely a problem. As with any health-related issue, laying off the alcohol is advised in a general sense, but we all know it’s the excess and frequent binge drinking that we need to watch out for. 

To that end, excessive drinking could definitely be negatively affecting your periods. In fact, according to the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, regular heavy booze sessions can cause irregular periods or even skipped periods. This happens because alcohol can temporarily increase levels of estrogen and testosterone, disrupting typical hormonal fluctuations that happen during ovulation.

If you are trying to conceive, it’s also good to know that regular and excessive alcohol intake could be affecting your ovulation in the same way, and therefore your fertility. Think ahead and plan your drinking around your ovulation. Your sauvignon blanc around your sexy time, if you will. Better yet, reduce your alcohol intake for a prolonged period of time to encourage more regular ovulation.  

If you’re wondering how much alcohol it takes to disrupt your cycle, there’s no data to tell us when to stop and each person’s body is different, so it’s about listening to your own body. You’ll probably want to stay under the recommended daily limit of 2-3 units, and perhaps take a few sober days each week. 

Probably not. Some women believe that as alcohol is known to dull some physical pain, it can lessen the intensity of cramps. This logic falls apart when you realise alcohol is a diuretic, meaning that it dehydrates your body - that’s why you get the horrible hangover the next morning.

Being dehydrated actually tends to worsen cramps, so it’s always best to avoid alcohol if you are experiencing bad cramps, or supplement with plenty of water to hydrate.

If you find yourself becoming more drunk more quickly while on your period, having irregular periods, or experiencing bad cramps, alcohol may be to blame, and the simplest way to avoid these symptoms is to reduce alcohol intake, or have some sober time.

If you do want a drink though, it’s best to avoid fruity cocktails that are usually high in sugar, as this can create a spike in blood sugar which worsens the effects. Choose non-alcoholic mocktails that aren’t made up of mostly fruit juice, or things like sparkling water or tea if you want to order a drink socially. Coffee can worsen PMS symptoms and anxiety, so try to avoid this if you can.

If you’re out for a special occasion and want a couple of alcoholic drinks in moderation, it’s all good. Just drink plenty of H2O alongside and you’ll be good to go. Cheers to that! 

Got questions about having a drink while on your period? Let us know over on Instagram at @itsyoppie. If we don’t have the answer, we’ll always do our best to direct you to the info you need. 

P.S. If you’re struggling with alcohol in any way, this page has a lot of great advice, resources and support. 

You've got enough going on at that time of the month so don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic cotton tampons, PMS supplements, and much more, delivered through your letterbox. That's a few less things to worry about each cycle!

How Alcohol Consumption Can Affect PMS and Your Cycle

There are all sorts of alternative therapies out there to explore for period pain, and when it gets really bad, you might be tempted to try a few on for size to see if they make a difference to your pains and overall wellbeing. Let’s take a closer look at reflexology, the pressure points involved, and whether or not this can be an effective relief for period pain. Prepare your tootsies!

What is reflexology and how does it work? 🧐

Reflexology is essentially a foot massage, but with a little more strategy to it. By applying specific amounts of pressure to the feet, it is believed that you can connect to organs and systems throughout your body, and influence them to promote certain health benefits.

Some swear by this technique, while others claim a lack of scientific evidence to make the effects plausible. At the end of the day, whether it's effective or a placebo; if it works for you, it works for you. While the science does put this technique into question as a legitimate medical treatment, there’s nothing to say that your toes can’t be the key to your tummy ache, so give it a go - you never know! 

Though some say that reflexology has helped them fix back problems and fight cancer, these suggestions should be taken with a pinch (or two) of salt, as there is no scientific evidence to show that there is any truth to these claims.

That said, reflexology is thought to be able to help with reducing general pain, stress, anxiety, depression, and improving wellbeing. In fact, some strong studies have shown that reflexology can have many beneficial effects on anxiety, so it’s certainly worth a try if you suffer from any of the above.

Reflexology is essentially massaging the feet, so it’s considered a very safe and even enjoyable therapy to receive, even if you have a serious health condition. That said, it’s recommended that people speak to their doctor if they suffer from certain health issues, such as circulatory problems, blood clots or inflammation of the leg veins, gout, foot ulcers, thyroid problems, epilepsy, or anything else you may be concerned about. And of course, if you have a case of the ol’ tickly feet syndrome, you may want to avoid!

Lastly, if you’re pregnant and keen to visit a reflexologist, definitely let them know before your session, as some pressure points are thought to induce contractions… best avoid those!

Some who receive reflexology have reported mild side effects such as lightheadedness and emotional sensitivity, so keep this in mind if you choose to try it.

Pressure points and where to find them 🗺

Studies vary on exactly which pressure points affect each part of the body, but typically it is thought that key points on the soles of the feet affect specific areas. For example, the outside arches of the feet are thought to be linked to back pain, so this is where your reflexologist might concentrate their efforts if you have an achy back.

The below diagram from Massagaholic gives a general overview of which areas you may want to focus on if you are targeting a specific condition.

It’s the big question! And the answer is… maybe. Some studies have found reflexology could be as effective as taking ibuprofen, and that in itself could be enough reason to give it a try, as many of us would agree that an alternative to popping pills is usually best.

There is evidence to suggest that focusing on reflex points in the feet could affect the endocrine system and possibly even the reproductive system, which is responsible for hormone production. If this is the case, reflexology could in fact help alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) - yes please!

How to use reflexology for period pain 🦶

Want to give it a try next time you’re reaching for the hot water bottle and the painkillers? Then you’ll likely want to focus on one particular spot, named ‘Liver 3’, which is thought to soothe cramps and regulate menstruation. You’ll find this one about an inch below the spot between your big and second toe.

If this doesn’t work for you, you don’t need to give up entirely on using pressure points. There are other places on the body that could be more effective for you - here’s a quick guide you might find handy.

Have you ever tried reflexology for period pains? Did it work for you, or is it a lot of woo-woo? Let us know your thoughts over on Instagram at @itsyoppie! Still, you've got enough going on at that time of the month even if you aren't getting a foot rub, so don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic cotton tampons, PMS supplements, and much more, delivered through your letterbox. That's a few less things to worry about each cycle!

Reflexology For Period Pain: Is It Worth It?

No one should feel lost when it comes to their menstrual health worries. Much of this subject is still taboo, but at Yoppie, we believe no question should be too embarrassing or too silly! We asked expert Dr Brooke Vandermolen, Obstetrics & Gynaecology specialist doctor, to answer some of the commonest concerns that women ask their gynaecologist.

Having vaginal discharge is a vital part of maintaining the overall health of the region. It is quite normal for your discharge to change throughout your menstrual cycle, from its colour to the consistency and smell.

This discharge serves many important functions including; cleansing the vagina, getting rid of natural bacteria and any dead cells and providing a natural lubrication to keep sex comfortable as well as preventing any skin irritation or discomfort. (1)

Pay close attention to your discharge, and if you notice it has an unusual colour or smell, or is blood-stained when it shouldn't be, seek advice from your doctor.

2. Why do I need to have a smear test? 🔬

Cervical cancer is an extremely rare, slow growing cancer. Doing a smear test, where a doctor or nurse takes a small sample of the cells in your cervix to be checked under a microscope is a very effective way of detecting abnormal changes in these cells, before they have a chance to become cancerous. It is not a diagnostic test for cervical cancer.

A new addition to the cervical cancer screening program is testing for the HPV human papillomavirus. This virus is known to cause 99% of all cervical cancer, so we now test every sample for HPV before the cells are checked under a microscope. (2)

Having regular smear tests means if there are any changes that develop, it can be caught and treated early without requiring any invasive treatment. 

3. Do I need to shave before visiting the gynaecologist? 🤔

Definitely not! Gynaecologists are not particularly interested in what you chose to do with your pubic hair, and it makes no difference to the outcome of the examination. They will most likely have seen thousands of vaginas, so there is no need to be concerned or embarassed about the appearance of yours! Do whatever makes you feel most comfortable but of course it is perfectly normal to feel nervous before expecting an intimate examination.

4. Does it matter if my period isn't regular? 🙇🏽‍♀️

The average menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, although it’s normal for it to vary by a few days each month. You don’t need to get medical advice if you have always had slightly irregular periods or you’re still going through puberty.

Periods suddenly become irregular and you’re under 45

Your cycle lies outside of the range 21-35 days

There’s a big difference (at least 20 days) between your shortest and longest menstrual cycle

You have irregular periods and you’re struggling to get pregnant whilst trying to conceive for more than 6 months

There might not be anything wrong, but it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor and get checked out to see what the cause might be.

5. How much blood is normal to lose during your period? 🩸

Most women will lose around 80ml of blood during their period. Your period is described as heavy if you lose more than this amount, or your periods last for 7 days or longer.

However, what seems heavy for one woman may feel completely normal for another. Therefore to help you work out if your bleeding is generally considered excessive see if it fits with any of these issues:

Having to change your sanitary products every 1-2 hours

Passing blood clots larger than 2.5cm (about the size of a 10p coin)

Bleeding (flooding) through to your clothes or bedding

Needing to double up on sanitary products (eg tampons and pads) 

Simply put, all you need is warm water! People often describe the vagina as ‘self-cleaning’ because the environment itself, which includes friendly bacteria and a naturally low pH as well as the lubrication of the vaginal discharge all help to prevent infections and get rid of old cells and debris. Fragranced soaps, or even vaginal ‘douching’ disrupt this delicate environment and actually increase the likelihood of infections occurring. You should never wash inside the vagina with soap or any other gels or antiseptics.

If you want to clean the outside, known as the vulva, you can use gentle, unfragranced soap and warm water daily as part of your normal bathing routine. (3)

7. What should my vagina smell like? 👃🏼

A healthy and clean vagina has a certain natural scent and taste that should not be unpleasant. You should get to know your ‘normal’ smell so you can understand when something is up. You may notice the smell change at different times of your cycle, such as during your period.

Factors that affect the odor of the vagina include antibiotic use, douching, spermicide, new sexual partners, and frequency of sex. Your diet, such as eating garlic, onions, brussels sprouts and red meat, can create a different odor in the vagina. Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause can also alter your scent.

If you or your partner notices an offensive, fishy, yeasty, or foul odour, it is a good to speak to your doctor who may recommend a swab to check for any infections.

8. My bowels go weird around my periods - why is that? 🧻

It’s probably not talked about enough, but important period symptoms also include digestion; specifically abdominal bloating and diarrhoea which you may experience around the time of your period.

During menstruation, your body releases chemical-messengers called prostaglandins, which stimulate your uterus to contract, which helps encourage the shedding of the uterine lining (the period). These prostaglandins are suggested to be responsible for increasing gastrointestinal side effects around this time, by having an effect on the gut tissue. (4)

Not everyone may notice this shift in stool patterns, but if you already suffer from conditions like IBS you may be more susceptible to these changes.

Yes, you certainly can have sex when you're on your period. However, apart from the mess there are also some risks to be aware of; HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may be passed on more easily therefore so you should always use a condom.

Also, while it's very unlikely, it's still possible to get pregnant if you have unprotected sex during your period. This is because some women ovulate early, and sperm can survive inside a woman's body for up to 7 days.

10. How do I avoid getting infections like thrush? 👀

Infections like thrush and bacterial vaginosis are very common for women of all ages. At best they can be a bit of a nuisance, and at worse they can seriously impact on your ability to lead a normal life.

There are lifestyle and hygiene changes that you can make to lower your risk of developing thrush, as well as keeping you in good health. It may surprise you to know that your diet can have an impact on your vaginal health, so you can support your immune system and keep the friendly bacteria in balance.

Other precautions you can take against thrush include:

Washing your underwear in gentle and fragrance free detergent

Avoid perfumed soaps when washing the vagina, and never use soaps or douches internally

Making sure to dry your genitals properly after washing

Wearing light-fitting cotton underwear and avoid wearing tights or tight jeans 

If you experience recurrent infections, avoid the temptation to self-treat each time with over-the-counter treatments. Instead pay a visit to your doctor who can confirm the infection with a swab and prescribe different or longer-term treatment.

You've got enough going on at that time of the month so don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic cotton tampons, PMS supplements, and much more, delivered through your letterbox. That's a few less things to worry about each cycle.

Menstrual Pheromones: How Scent Could Be Connected To Your Cycle

Periods are a common thread connecting us through all walks of life. That said, no two periods are the same, just as no two people are the same. Disabilities present differently for each person, so whether you have a physical or an intellectual disability, you may find that the traditional period advice doesn’t exactly apply to you.

Let’s start by clarifying what we mean by ‘disability’ - it’s a broad term. The dictionary definition is “a physical, mental, cognitive, or developmental condition that impairs, interferes with, or limits a person's ability to engage in certain tasks or actions, or participate in typical daily activities and interactions”.

For some with disabilities, managing their period might be no problem at all, but for others, the simple act of changing a tampon could be something that requires much more forethought and creativity than the rest of us apply to the task.

There’s a wide spectrum of physical disabilities, and within each category, individual abilities vary. It could take us an entire book to list all possible types of physical disability, so here are just a few examples; multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, epilepsy, visual impairment, cerebral palsy, limb amputation, and more.

Some barriers often faced by those with a disability include:

Lack of educational materials that cover advice for women with different abilities and body types

Insufficient infrastructure in public bathrooms to aid all abilities, which can make basic hygiene procedures more challenging and increase risk of health problems

According to menstrualhygieneday.org, although people with physical disabilities can experience menstruation in much the same way as non-disabled women, they are often found to have more negative symptoms such as heavy periods (menorrhagia) and painful periods (dysmenorrhoea).

The management of menstruation can prove difficult for some with limited physical functions. After all, tampons can be a fiddly business at the best of times! Though applicators can make things slightly easier, inserting and removing one, or doing the same for a menstrual cup, just isn’t an option for some. Plus, those who have the help of a carer for hygiene may not feel comfortable with someone else doing this.

In many cases, sanitary towels (and perhaps period-proof underwear) are the best choice, though they can still be challenging to change. They present a less intrusive option for carers, and can be essential for those who do not have sensation below the waist and therefore can’t always tell when their period is on its way, or already there.

We love this account by writer Melissa Blake, who talks about the logistics of getting her period while in a wheelchair.

Some disabilities you can’t see, and when it comes to intellectual disabilities such as Down syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, developmental delay, and more, women and girls are up against a number of barriers that make menstruation a stressful experience. These include a lack of ability to gather information on periods, lack of educational materials that cater to varying learning requirements, and sometimes a lack of understanding about what is happening to their body.

Many of us have grown accustomed to our periods and can handle them on autopilot, but if you actually think about what goes into managing them, there’s a lot! Some steps include keeping track of when it’s due, being prepared with appropriate sanitary products, changing the products (which can be messy!), disposal of used products, knowing about things like toxic shock syndrome (TSS), dealing with laundry when inevitable leaks happen, pain relief for cramps, remembering the correct daily intake of birth control pills to manage symptoms, and of course, there’s low mood and mood swings, which can be even more difficult for someone with an intellectual disability.

Typically, if someone is independent with their toileting, they are usually also able to manage their menstrual care, however this isn't always the case. Still, it can be useful for carers or family members to track the periods of those with disabilities to ensure they are always healthy, since your menstrual cycle can be an indicator of other health problems, and those with intellectual disabilities may not recognise tell-tale signs or feel comfortable sharing them to seek help.

Tracking allows the person to be prepared for their next period, and can even help manage the symptoms of their disability. As an example, up to 20% of people with intellectual disabilities also have epilepsy, and seizures can be linked to hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle. By tracking this, carers can monitor the likelihood of issues.

Whatever difficulties you face with puberty, periods, and the emotions that come with them, you can be sure that most girls and women have experienced the highs and lows (well, mostly lows!) of periods, and that’s something that will always unite us - making it forever acceptable to ask a stranger for an emergency sanitary towel!

Do you have a disability, or care for someone with a disability? We’d love to hear your thoughts and stories on managing periods - you can chat to us over on Instagram at @itsyoppie or in our private FB group. Whatever your particular circumstances, you've got enough going on at that time of the month so don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic cotton tampons, PMS supplements, and much more, all delivered through your letterbox. That's a few less things to worry about each cycle!

Managing Periods With A Disability

It’s time to talk about ‘that which shall not be named’. Nope, worse than Voldemort… it’s those pesky period poops. Yoppie’s not afraid to talk about the icky stuff, so we thought it was time to address this mysterious phenomenon that ranges from mildly inconvenient to downright disgusting.

You may have experienced some iffy digestion while on your period, and if you’re one of the not-so-lucky ones, the occasional ‘period poop’. Your digestive system is affected by your menstrual cycle due to fluctuating hormones, and sometimes it’s tough to decipher between period cramps and digestive discomfort, since cramps often feel like pressure in the abdomen, and both can bring on contractions around the uterus and bowel area.

All this is caused by prostaglandins, a group of lipids that control processes like blood flow, formation of blood clots, and induction of labour. That’s right, sometimes it’s hard to tell if you’re in labour or just about to poop your pants - aren’t periods fun?!

Not everyone experiences symptoms quite as dramatic as this - although some of the stories in this Cosmo roundup go into heavy detail - we love it! One study found 73% of respondents experienced period-related gastrointestinal symptoms ranging from more frequent bowel movements (1), to constipation or diarrhoea. IBS sufferers or those with other digestive issues could experience worse symptoms like abdominal pain and excessive diarrhoea during this time.

Here are some things you might notice during your period:

Prostaglandins are responsible for your increased frequency of bowel movements, as cells in the lining of the uterus produce more prostaglandins before your period, which stimulate muscles in your uterus to help it contract and shed its lining. Excess prostaglandins enter the bloodstream and can do the same to your bowels (2). Hence, period poop.

… smellllly poo, what are they feeding you?! Hormones are typically the culprit of period poop, but dietary changes can also be blamed. Progesterone increases feelings of hunger and causes cravings for certain foods (chocolate, anyone?). An increased intake of junk food is bound to have negative effects on your bowels. You know; smelly farts, smelly poos, all that stuff.

Feel constipated at certain points during your cycle? Once again we can blame hormones for this. Low prostaglandins and high progesterone leads to slow digestion and a lot less poopin’ (2). If this happens to you, up the fibre in your diet around your period.

More likely during your period is diarrhoea, thanks to excess prostaglandins making everything in your belly contract (2). What fun! Having diarrhoea and your period at the same time can make things rather messy, and losing blood and fluids can affect your energy levels, so it’s important to take it easy, drink a lot of water to boost hydration levels, and maybe cut the caffeine out for a while.

Cravings can be the cause of smelly poos, but they can also be responsible for mild to severe bloating (2). Excessive sugar, greasy food, and fizzy drinks can all make bloating much worse, but you will know your own bloat triggers, so try to limit those particular foods around this time and substitute some gut-friendly foods and herbal teas to calm the bloat.

When you’re using your pelvic muscles to poop, it can feel like your tampon may shoot out, Nerf gun-style. Perhaps it’s even happened a few times. Tampons can become dislodged if you strain for a poo, so some women prefer to remove and replace with another when they’re done.

All categories

Lifestyle

Yoppie's World

Sustainability

Health & Wellbeing

For Teens

Nutrition

Fertility

Meet Lydia Reeves, Creator Of The Vulva Diversity Project

The Lowdown: How Safe Are Period Delay Tablets?

How Alcohol Consumption Can Affect PMS and Your Cycle

Reflexology For Period Pain: Is It Worth It?

Top 10 Questions Women Wish They Could Ask A Gynaecologist

Menstrual Pheromones: How Scent Could Be Connected To Your Cycle

Managing Periods With A Disability

Period Poop: How Menstruation Affects Your Digestive System

Boob Check 101: An Easy Guide To Your Breast Health

How To Manage Your Period On Every Type Of Holiday

Period Advice To My Fellow Teens

Your Shame Free Guide To Common STIs

A Tell-All Guide To Vaginismus

Menstrual Cycle Slumber: 6 Ways Your Period Can Affect Your Sleep

Why Sex May Be Painful, And What To Do About It

A Simple Guide To Vaginal Cysts

What You Need To Know About Thrush and BV

How To Survive Your Hot Flashes In Summer

Planet Friendly Periods: Disposing Of Period Products In An Eco-Conscious Way

Yoppie Loves: Our Favourite Menstrual Art On Instagram

Menstrual Migraines: How To Manage The Hassle Of Hormonal Headaches

Zero-Waste Periods: How To Make That Time Of The Month More Eco-Friendly

Emergency Contraception: What It’s Like To Take The Morning After Pill

How Stress Affects The Menstrual Cycle

The Great Debate: Tampons vs. Menstrual Cups

Insulin-Resistant PCOS: More Common Than You Think

Teen Periods Demystified: What You Need To Know About The Early Days Of Your Cycle

How Does Vegetarian Life Affect Your Periods?

A Mum And Daughter Guide To Talking About Periods

Why We Need To Stop Using Euphemisms For Periods

A Brief History of Menstrual Hygiene

Is 'Period Flu' A Real Thing?