Period poverty comes and goes from the mainstream media, but the problem still exists; millions of girls around the world lack access to sanitary products and menstrual hygiene education. And that’s not OK.

You may have heard Period poverty discussed again recently thanks to British teenager Amika George and her Free Periods campaign, which strives to end period poverty in schools around the world. Thanks to their efforts, from 20th January 2020, every state-funded school and college in England can order free period products for their students.

It's a huge win for the issue in the UK, but there’s still a long way to go to ensure girls around the world get the same fair access to what they need. Globally, girls are missing out on school and valuable education for reasons that many of us take for granted daily.

Why is period poverty not talked about more?

At Yoppie, we’re incredibly open and honest about periods and all the fascinating and gross bits that come with them. But many countries around the world still hold stigma when it comes to feminine hygiene. It’s either not talked about, or discussed in the context of it being shameful or embarrassing, despite the fact that every woman in the world goes through it.

Whether due to religious beliefs or cultural ideation, many women around the world are forced to take harmful and undignified approaches to their menstrual health on a monthly basis. Not only is the stigma surrounding menstruation incredibly archaic, but in some cultures much of it is based on myths and superstitions - not science.

For girls around the world, period poverty has a direct affect on their education. UNICEF estimates around 1 in 10 school girls in Africa avoid school during their period, and some end up leaving education altogether. Whether due to lack of products, or lack of adequate facilities in which to manage their period, it’s simply unacceptable.

Worryingly, many girls will resort to using dirty materials, overusing the sanitary products they have, or even inserting unsafe makeshift tampons. This, combined with the lack of access to bathroom facilities in some countries can contribute to dangerous, even life-threatening circumstances.

How does period poverty affect girls in the UK?

You may think period poverty only exists in developing countries, but research from Plan International suggests that 1 in 10 girls aged 14-21 in the UK have been unable to afford sanitary products, and an astounding 49% have missed at least one day of school due to their period.

Empowerment starts when you are young. Girls should be able to focus on their education and their future without being worried about or embarrassed by their periods... This is a global issue . Without education, women and girls around the world won't be able to take the steps to reach their true potential. - Penny Morduant, Minister for Women & Equalities

If you feel helpless while other women deal with the issues surrounding period ooverty, know that there are ways you can get involved.

Donating to the Free Periods campaign can make a big difference to the work they are doing. The campaign continues to fight for free menstrual products in schools globally, working with in-country menstrual rights groups to coordinate the social movements needed to pressure governments into introducing free period products in schools. To help their cause, find out more and donate here.

Donating period products to your local food bank is a great way to make sure girls in your own UK community always have access to what they need. There are many drop-off points within large supermarkets, allowing you to donate food and other assorted items. Next time you visit a drop-off point, consider contributing period products to the cause.

Even without donating money, you can help by talking about the issues and breaking stereotypes, both in person and on social media. One of the best ways to tackle period poverty is to discuss menstruation freely and stifle the stigma that remains, even in this country. Talking about the issues faced and everyday struggles (cramps, leaks, the lot!) with others can start necessary conversations.

Got questions about period poverty? Want to find out more ways you can help? Head on over to our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic tampons, pads, liners (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, giving you more time to fight the good fight.

Let’s Fight Period Poverty Together

So you’ve had the dreaded letter inviting you to your cervical screening exam? Never fear! Whether it’s been a few years since your last exam, or you’re brand new to this medical encounter, we’re breaking down exactly what you can expect at a cervical screening exam. Let’s get to it!

Cervical screening, otherwise known as a smear test, is a short exam which checks the health of your cervix. It’s nothing to worry about, but many women put off going for years due to fear of pain, embarrassment, or because they don’t feel it necessary. It is important that you DO NOT avoid your cervical screening exam for any reason. The test is a preventative measure to catch any signs of cervical cancer as early as possible, and anyone with a cervix in the UK should get regular smear tests from age 25 onwards. 

The nurse or doctor conducting your test will have a close look at your cervix and take a small sample of cells from your cervix to check for a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV).

HPV is the name for a very common group of viruses. Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by infection from certain types of HPV, so your smear test helps identify if this bug is present or not.

You can get HPV from a sexual partner from any kind of contact with the genital area, not just from penetrative sex, and most people will get some type of HPV during their lives, so don’t worry if you are found to have this.

If you do have HPV present, the cells will be examined under a microscope to check there are no cancerous or precancerous changes caused by this bug.

Cervical screening exams are usually done by a female nurse or doctor, but if not, remember you can request a female doctor at any time, to make you feel more comfortable. They can answer any questions you have before they begin. If you want to see what happens during a test,this short animation on the NHS website is helpful.

You might be asked a few questions; for example if you are sexually active, where you are in your menstrual cycle, if you are using any contraception or hormone therapies, and if you have any symptoms such as unusual bleeding or pain. You might be offered testing for sexually transmitted infections at this appointment.

Firstly, you’ll be asked to undress from the waist down behind a screen. This may feel a bit awkward, but you'll be given a sheet to put over you.

Next, you’ll lie back on a bed, usually with your legs bent, and your knees apart. In some cases you may be asked to place your legs into stirrups. Being so exposed can feel uncomfortable, but try to remember that your nurse will have seen many, many vaginas before yours!

They will insert a tube-shaped tool called a speculum into your vagina, using a small amount of lubricant to allow it to slide in easily. When they open the speculum, it feels a bit stretchy, as the speculum is wider than a tampon, but shouldn’t be painful. If you do feel pain here, let your nurse or doctor know, they might be able to use a smaller speculum size.

Once the speculum is inserted, the doctor or nurse might need to wiggle it a little to bring your cervix into view. They will take a good look at the cervix, making sure everything looks healthy. A small sample of cells will be taken from your cervix using a soft brush. Though the instrument used is soft to the touch, the very act of anything touching your cervix can feel unpleasant, so you may wish to take some deep breaths during this part, which should only take a few seconds at most.

Remember: You can ask the nurse to stop at any time if you feel uncomfortable or experience any pain, and begin again when you feel more relaxed.

Once the sample of cells have been collected, the speculum is removed and you are free! You will probably be given some tissue to wipe away any remaining lubricant, and then you can re-dress behind the screen.

Some things you may want to do before and during the test to make it easier:

Wear something long that can be pulled up, such as a skirt or a long top

Bring along a friend or partner who can put your mind at ease

Practice some breathing exercises you can use during the test

Bring something to read or listen to, to take your mind off of what’s going on

Don’t be afraid to tell the nurse if you feel embarrassed, as they are usually very understanding and will help you through the process

A lot of people like to have a shower or bath before their test to help them feel less embarrassed, but don't feel like you need to go mad down there and definitely don't use anything more than water and unscented soap. Wear clothes that are quick and easy to take off and on, especially below the waist (leave the cute jumpsuit for another day). It's recommended to avoid going for a smear test when you're on your period as it can interfere with the results, so if your bleed surprises you, just ask to rearrange. For similar reasons, avoid having penetrative sex for 24 hours before your test if you're using spermicides, barrier contraception like a condom of diaphragm, or any lubricants.

The hard part is over! You may experience some gentle cramping and light spotting in the hours after your cervical screening test. This is very normal and nothing to worry about. If the bleeding becomes heavy, speak to your GP to make sure everything is as it should be.

Normally you will receive the results of your test via letter around 2 weeks after your appointment. These can sometimes take longer to get to you, so don’t worry if this happens. If you have any concerns, call your GP.

Regularity of appointments depends on your age and where you live. In England, the typical schedule is

First smear test: around the age of 25, you may be invited up to 6 months before you turn 25

64+: screening by invite, only if one of your last 3 tests was abnormal

You may be asked to attend more often if HPV is found, or if you have required treatment to your cervix in the past. Let’s face it, nobody enjoys a cervical screening test! They can feel embarrassing, invasive, and very uncomfortable, but they are necessary. Your health is important, and the benefits of catching any abnormal cells early far, far outweigh the small inconvenience of a cervical screening exam. 

Even if you feel you have waited too long after being invited to book your screening, know that it’s never too late. If you are in any doubt, call your GP to find out when you should next be seen.

Do you have an upcoming cervical screening exam? Worried about what’s in store? Chat to us in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic tampons, pads, liners (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox. That's one less thing to get stressed about, at least.

Smear Fear: What To Expect At Your Cervical Screening

We’re all about embarrassing body issues here at Yoppie, especially the ones that no one else wants to discuss. One that’s usually kept hush-hush is urinary incontinence after giving birth. Postpartum urinary incontinence is when urine involuntary leaks, brought on by anything from laughter, coughing, sneezing, or just strenuous activity. It’s very common after giving birth, with more than a third of new mums suffering from it. So… let’s talk about it!

Postpartum incontinence happens when pregnancy and the trauma of childbirth put lasting strain on your pelvic-floor muscles. You might already have experienced incontinence during pregnancy, as many women do. This may have been mild and manageable while pregnant, but after giving birth can become a more significant issue, as the delivery can weaken the muscles around your bladder and pelvis. Also, as your uterus shrinks back after delivering your baby, it sits right on your bladder, applying more pressure still.

Picture the bladder as a balloon, and the tied part of the balloon is the urethra. The fuller your bladder becomes, the tighter the sphincter muscles around the urethra squeeze to keep the urine inside. During childbirth these muscles are stretched, and this, combined with changing hormones, means you may experience a weak bladder. In fact, it is not the bladder causing the issue, it is the weakened ligaments - who knew?!

Age and body mass index often contribute to postpartum incontinence, but it can affect anyone after they have given birth, along with a whole bunch of other bodily changes. Even women who have given birth via C-section could experience some degree of postpartum incontinence. Plus, it’s good to know that if you had an epidural you could experience more bladder weakness for a few days after giving birth.

How long will it take to regain bladder control?

It usually takes around 3-6 months for the bladder to return to ‘normal’ and regain control once again. This can be made even shorter by paying attention to these tips:

Kegel exercises: These help to strengthen the muscles, and can be done as often as you can manage after giving birth. Things like stopping your wee mid-stream during urination, and building up the length of time you hold for, could help. The more you do Kegel exercises, the quicker you will notice your muscles return to normal.

Train your bladder: As well as training the muscles with Kegel exercises, try to urinate every 30 minutes before there is enough urine buildup to lead to incontinence. You can then start to slowly extend the time between loo visits.

Avoid constipation: Paying attention to your diet to avoid constipation can help, as added pressure from the bowels can worsen incontinence.

Drink enough: You may think limiting your water intake helps, but this puts you at risk of dehydration and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Avoid certain drinks: Too much coffee, citrus juices and alcohol can worsen urinary incontinence.

Wear liners or pads: Absorb any leakages to feel more confident when you’re out and about.

Remember that urinary incontinence is very common, but many women are embarrassed to discuss it with their partner, friends, or even their doctor.

During your postpartum period, you will usually have appointments booked in with a healthcare professional who will be monitoring both your baby’s health and your postpartum journey. Don’t be afraid to let them know if you are suffering from any type of urinary incontinence. Aside from the above tips, your nurse or doctor will have other treatment options available that they can discuss with you, and together you can figure out the best way to proceed

Are you going through the flows of postpartum incontinence? We’re all about open conversations at Yoppie, so head on over to our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic pantyliners delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox to make life easier in those extra-busy post-birth times!

Bladder Bother: Understanding Postpartum Incontinence

Have you ever noticed the rainbow of different colours that can emerge from your vagina during your period?! Paying attention to these can be beneficial, as the colour of your period blood can actually indicate crucial health information. While period blood is known for being red, it can vary in its strength of colour, and even the colour itself. Let’s take a closer look.

Period blood is known for being bright red, so this is pretty average, and indicates a steady flow of fresh blood. At the beginning and middle of your period you will likely see bright red blood, and possibly some darker red towards the end.

Very vividly bright red blood, if it is particularly heavy or accompanied by clots (where the blood comes out in lumps), can sometimes be a sign of polyps or fibroids. These are non-cancerous growths that can occur in the uterus and cause women to experience a heavy flow during their period, and possibly even pain. If you experience untoward pain or believe something is abnormal about your cycle, always chat to your GP so they can make sure everything is A-OK.

Dark red blood is also nothing to worry about, and is very common, especially when you first wake up in the morning. This is because when you have been lying down for a while the blood collects, ready to be expelled when you stand upright. The darkness in colour simply means the blood has oxidised inside the uterus, and you are more likely to notice dark red blood when your period cycle is coming to an end - this is ‘old blood’ leaving the body.

Another reason for vaginal blood to be dark red is if you have recently given birth, and this is called ‘lochia’. We have a whole blog on lochia and what to expect, here.

Just as dark red blood is a sign that the blood has oxidised, blood that is brown means it is older, and more likely to signal the end of your period. Alternatively, if you tend to experience a very slow flow each month, blood could be taking longer to pass through your system, therefore having more time to oxidise and turn to a darker shade of red or even brown.

Black blood can look a little alarming, but it doesn’t always mean there’s anything wrong. This is usually just very old blood that has taken a long time to pass through your system, and therefore has oxidised to the degree that it has turned black - this can look similar to coffee grounds in appearance.

Period blood can take on a pink tint when it mixes with cervical fluid, which can sometimes happen at the start or end of your period as your discharge changes and dilutes the blood. If you use hormonal birth control such as the pill or the implant, you may notice some spotting or pink-stained discharge at other times of your cycle. It can be a bit of a nuisance, and typically settles after you have been taking the contraception for more than 3 months, however if it is bothersome, speak with your doctor or sexual health clinic.

You might also experience pink or bloody discharge after sex, as sometimes intercourse can leave you with small tears in the vagina or cervix that heal on their own. Blood from these tears mixes with fluid in your vagina, and leaves the body looking like pink discharge. However, it is important that you don’t ignore bleeding after sex as it can sometimes occur if there's a more sinister underlying cause like cervical cancer.

Orange blood?! Yup. Probably the rarest of the colours, and not one that gets talked about a lot. Just as blood can mix with cervical fluid and appear pink, if you have an infection in the vagina it can mix with the coloured discharge and even look orange. Possible infections include bacterial vaginosis, or sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia. If you also notice bad smelling discharge or vaginal itching alongside orange period blood, you should discuss your symptoms with your doctor to make sure everything is as it should be.

Another colour that sounds like cause for concern, but isn’t always: grey blood. More like discharge in consistency, grey blood can be a sign of bacterial vaginosis. Remember that if you experience itching in and around your vagina, any smelly vaginal odour, or a burning sensation when you use the toilet, you should definitely chat to your GP about possible causes and getting started on the necessary antibiotics to treat the condition.

Your period is often an indication of your overall health, so aside from colour changes, watch out for changes in texture, length, heaviness, consistency or size of clots. Keeping an eye on what’s normal and what doesn’t seem right is key, so you can chat to your doctor about how to stay as healthy as possible.

Have you ever experienced unusual colours in your period blood? It’s sharing time! Head on over to our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic tampons, PMS supplements and more delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox. That's one less thing to keep an eye on.

Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare. Management of Unscheduled Bleeding in Women Using Hormonal Contraception.

Bilardi JE, Walker S, Temple-Smith M, et al. The burden of bacterial vaginosis: women’s experience of the physical, emotional,  sexual and social impact of living with recurrent bacterial vaginosis. PLoS One 2013; 8: e74378.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324848#clots

Clues In The Hue: What Does The Colour Of Your Period Blood Mean?

Whether it’s achieving that famous pregnancy glow, avoiding stretch marks, or making sure your stomach returns to ‘normal’ after giving birth, there’s a lot of internal and external pressure on women during and after pregnancy. It’s rare to hear anyone embrace or let alone talk about the inevitable changes that your body will go through when having a baby. Nobody put it better than Elizabeth Banks’ character in the movie What To Expect When You’re Expecting:

“I just wanted the glow. The one that they promise you on the cover of those magazines. Well, I'm calling it - pregnancy sucks. Making a human being is really hard. I have no control over my body or my emotions.”

Amen, girl! We’re breaking down those pregnancy and postpartum bodily changes that don’t get talked about enough, and while most of what’s on the list might sound negative, remember that all mothers go through this, and we’re in it together… haemorrhoids and all!

Lots of women experience swelling in the hands, feet and even face during pregnancy, and there’s a genuine reason behind it. Extra fluids in your body build up, and can remain for a time after giving birth. Try putting your feet up for some of the day, lying on your left side when sleeping, keeping your temperature down and drinking plenty of water. For some women, swollen feet are permanent as they never return to their original size after birth. Annoying? Sure. A good excuse to go shoe shopping? Absolutely.

Haemorrhoids aren’t always as bad as they are made to sound in popular culture. They are basically swollen veins in and around the anus, and they can hurt or even bleed. Anyone can get them, but pregnant women tend to experience them due to their expanding uterus. If you end up with haemorrhoids, don’t worry - they’re not permanent. Soak in regular warm baths to keep the area clean, use cream for any pain (ask your doctor), eat high-fibre foods and drink lots of water to make pooing easier, and try not to strain when doing so.

As your baby grows, your skin stretches to accommodate, and many women will notice stretch marks from where their stomach has popped out quickly. You might also see them on your thighs, hips and bottom, and while these probably won’t go away completely, using creams or lotions to improve skin elasticity during pregnancy, and continuing to use a stretch mark cream after the birth can drastically reduce their appearance. But most of all, don't feel embarrassed or ashamed of your new stripes. Stretch marks are a beautiful marker of how far your body has gone to bring new life into this world. 

There’s a lot of discussion around pregnancy weight gain and postpartum weight loss, but always remember your body is YOURS, and you should do whatever makes you feel good. Pregnancy weight gain happens while your body is holding onto extra reserves while growing your baby, and it’s usually temporary. After the birth, things like breastfeeding and the general busy-ness of being a new mum tends to help you lose those extra pounds. If not, don’t sweat it. There is no medical reason for you to strive to return to your pre-pregnancy body right away, so enjoy this time and don’t let weight worries overshadow it.

Finally, something positive! Many women notice that their hair becomes denser and even longer during pregnancy, and this is due to the increased hormone levels in the body. Women do often report hair loss around 6 months after giving birth, but let’s just focus on those long, luscious locks for now!

pelvic-floor muscles - the ones around your bladder, vagina and bottom. When this happens, some women experience small leakages when bearing down (coughing, lifting heavy things or laughing hard!) Kegel exercises help strengthen these muscles, and these can be as simple as stopping your wee mid-stream a few times during urination. Start small and increase the time you hold them for, and pretty soon you’ll be all tightened up down there. 

During pregnancy your abdomen muscles were stretched further than ever before, and it can take some time for these to regain strength. As a result, your body compensates by putting extra weight on your back muscles, leading to an achy back. This should clear up a few weeks after giving birth, but if not you may want to discuss with your doctor the best way to combat this.

One of those birth horror stories everyone tells is when a woman having a vaginal delivery tears at the perineum (the space between the vagina and anus) or has to have this surgically cut. This will need several weeks to fully heal, during which time moving around and going to the bathroom can be somewhat painful. If you end up having a Cesarean delivery (C-section) you will also have a large scar on your abdomen, and it’s important that you give yourself plenty of time to rest after the trauma of this.

As your baby grows in your uterus, the two muscles that run down the middle of your stomach tend to separate during pregnancy. As with most things in the body, this too will right itself around 8 weeks after giving birth. The gap will gradually get smaller and eventually close up, but if it doesn’t and the gap is still obvious after around 8 weeks, it’s a good idea to contact your doctor as this could lead to back problems in future. 

When your baby arrives, so does your milk. If you are not breastfeeding, this will usually go away in a few days. If you are, you’ll want to make sure you get into a routine of regular feeding or pumping, to avoid your breasts becoming tender and sore. As well as expressing milk to relieve pain, you can take a warm shower or lay a hot water bottle across your breasts to help your milk flow. If they continue to be painful, speak to your doctor or healthcare professional for advice on how to alleviate this.

The good boob news? Breastfeeding is thought to lower your lifetime risk of developing breast cancer, dropping by around 4% according to LiveScience.com.

When you first start breastfeeding, cracked nipples can unfortunately be a common occurrence, especially if your baby struggles to latch straight away. Speaking to a lactation consultant can help make this right, and special creams or lotions can help to ease any pain. While this might be uncomfortable, remember the phase shouldn’t last long and you will be back to stress-free nips before you know it! 

Are you pregnant or have you recently given birth? We’d love to know your own body changes, no matter how weird and wonderful they may be! Head on over to our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic pantyliners (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, helping keep you covered for any unexpected leaks once things settle down.

Bodily Changes: From Pregnancy To Postpartum

The female body is simply amazing, but let’s face it, at times the bodily changes that can occur can be pretty off-putting! One of those times is undoubtedly during pregnancy when discharge becomes a whole new ball game! Discharge during pregnancy is known as ‘leukorrhea’, and though it’s often entirely different to what you have experienced before, it is very natural and nothing to stress over. Here’s everything you need to know:

It’s the medical term for the milky white (or sometimes clear) fluid that comes out of your vagina while you are pregnant. It should have a very mild smell or be odourless, and as your baby grows, the amount of discharge often increases. You will likely have experienced discharge before between your periods, and leukorrhea is similar, though usually a tad heavier.

Vaginal discharge changes throughout your menstrual cycle due to fluctuating hormone levels, and changes once again when you become pregnant. Your estrogen levels will increase during this time, which causes more blood to flow to the pelvic area. This in turn stimulates the mucous membranes, and voila! Vaginal discharge that increases as your pregnancy progresses. It’s really helpful as it removes dead cells from the vagina, helping to protect it from infection and balance the healthy bacteria in the birth canal, ready for your baby to be born.

Simultaneously, your cervix changes during pregnancy, which can also affect vaginal discharge. The walls of the cervix and vagina soften ready for birth, and towards the very end of your pregnancy your baby’s head can often press against the cervix, leading to even more vaginal discharge.

Just like your regular discharge, leukorrhea is typically either white or clear the whole way through pregnancy, but some colours to watch out for are brown, pink, green or yellow. Brown or pink discharge is usually nothing to worry about at all. In fact, in early pregnancy this can sometimes be an indication of ‘implantation bleeding’, a small amount of bleeding that occurs just after the fertilised egg has attached to the wall of your uterus.

If you are already pregnant, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor or healthcare worker about any brown or pink discharge, and of course any unexpected blood, to make sure everything is A-OK. Similarly, green and yellow discharge shouldn’t be ignored, as this could be sign of an infection. If you notice discoloured discharge, seek advice from the healthcare professional who is monitoring your pregnancy.

Vaginal discharge is very normal and healthy throughout pregnancy, but it’s always good practice to keep an eye on how it is progressing, and any changes that occur, as these are a good indication of what’s going on inside.

It could be a sign of infection if your leukorrhea becomes...

Much thicker than before Itchy on your skin

If you think your discharge has changed or something doesn’t feel right, never be afraid to speak to your doctor or healthcare professional to make sure everything is as it should be.

Will it get heavier near the end of pregnancy?

Yes! The closer you get to the birth, the more intense the discharge becomes - but don’t worry, this is all very normal. In the last week or so of your pregnancy, the discharge may even contain streaks of pink, sticky mucus that is jelly-like in texture. This is referred to as a "show", and occurs when the mucus that has been in your cervix during pregnancy is released - a sign that your body is ready for the birth. In the days leading up to labour, you may experience a few of these “shows”, so you’ll know the big day is getting closer.

If your leukorrhea is driving you a little loco, here are a few ways to keep on top of it:

Take regular baths to dislodge as much of the discharge as possible, to stay clean, and to keep bacteria balanced 

Wear pads or liners to absorb as much of the discharge as possible

Do not use tampons, as they can introduce unhealthy bacteria into the birth canal

Avoid wipes, which can alter the pH of your vagina and increase your chance of infection

Wear breathable underwear to help you feel fresher down there

Leukorrhea is nothing to worry about, as excess discharge while you’re expecting is perfectly normal. However, as always, we recommend that if anything doesn’t feel right to you, don’t hesitate to discuss it with your doctor or healthcare professional. If your discharge has a bad-smelling odour, takes on a different colour, or becomes itchy or sore in your vagina, this could be a sign of an infection that may require treatment. Similarly, if you experience pain when you have a wee, speak to your doctor to make sure everything is in order. 

Are you pregnant and love talking about the gory details?! We love to hear that stuff! Share your journey with us in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic pantyliners (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, helping keep you covered for any lighter leaks in a body and planet-friendly way.

Pregnancy Discharge 101

You’ve just given birth, so the last thing you want is MORE going on “down there”. Postpartum bleeding (otherwise known as lochia) is a natural and unavoidable side effect of having a baby, whether you give birth vaginally or have a cesarean section. The good news; it’s totally normal, and only temporary. Here are all the questions you’re probably asking, what you can expect, and how to manage it.

Lochia is the process of your body ridding itself of all the extra blood and tissue that your uterus produced during gestation to help nourish your baby while he or she grew inside you. It’s part of your body’s process of returning to ‘normal’ after the stress of childbirth, and it’s nothing to stress over.

Lochia acts much like a period in the sense that blood comes out of your vagina, but it’s usually much heavier and lasts longer than the average period. The colour of lochia can go from pink to red to brown, and even end up yellow or white. You may even find more than just blood in there; expect mucus, clots, and tissue from where the placenta was attached in your uterus. It might look a bit intimidating but it’s all normal. However, if anything doesn’t feel or look quite right, don’t be afraid to ask your nurse or doctor. When it comes your health no question is silly. 

It’s different for everyone, but heavy bleeding usually lasts between 3 and 10 days after you have given birth. After this it usually eases up to a light spotting.

Sometimes I bleed more... is this normal?

There are some things that will have your body producing more blood than normal. When you first bring your baby home, you can expect more blood because you are likely moving around a lot. When you first get home after giving birth, it’s advised to stay off your feet for a while and rest up so your body can recover, especially when bleeding so much. 

You may also find that you experience a gush of blood when you stand up, but again, this is nothing to worry about, it’s simply due to the way your vagina is shaped. When you are sitting or lying down the blood collects, and when you stand up it releases. This is also why you’ll often bleed more in the morning when you first wake up.

One more thing to remember is that breastfeeding causes your body to release oxytocin, which makes your womb contract, producing more blood also.

It’s normal to feel that there might be something wrong due to the large amount of blood loss, and while you shouldn’t worry about it, it’s important to be aware of anything that might be out of the ordinary. Never feel embarrassed or scared to ask your doctor or nurse what is and isn’t normal.

Watch out for any blood clots that look larger than a plum, any foul smelling discharge, or if you feel faint, weak or nauseous. If you experience any symptoms like blurred vision, chills, clammy skin or a rapid heartbeat, seek medical help immediately just in case there’s anything you need treatment for.

When you first come home after giving birth, you will likely need to wear a hospital-grade sanitary pad to collect the blood, but it won’t be long before you can return to a normal sized sanitary pad. You should wear underwear and clothes that you don’t mind getting grubby, as stains from lochia blood could easily end up on your clothes - stick to those trusty sweatpants for a while! 

Also, try not to exert yourself in the beginning. Even a quick tidy up around the house counts as moderate exercise and could mean you bleed more, so remember to rest as much as possible and allow your body to get back to healthy.

It is advised that for the first 6 weeks you only use pads, never tampons. This is because tampons (even our natural ones!) can introduce foreign bacteria into your uterus and genital tract, which is still recovering from the trauma of childbirth. Give your vagina a much-needed rest and stick to pads for the first 6 weeks, or as long as you feel necessary. 

Have you recently given birth, or will be expecting soon? Share your journey with us in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic pantyliners (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox, helping keep you covered for any unexpected leaks once things settle down.

Postpartum Bleeding: What To Expect and How To Manage It

Alongside the monthly bleeding that we get to look forward to, another menstrual cycle side effect many often experience is PMS. For some, it only lasts a few days (some more, some less), and everyone experiences varying levels of PMS intensity. If the symptoms begin to negatively affect your mental health, there are steps you can take to better understand your body, and to improve it each month. Let’s talk PMS...

PMS stands for premenstrual syndrome, and affects our physical body, emotions and behaviours. Most commonly, women can experience sadness, irritability, anxiousness, tiredness, anger, unexplained crying, absentmindedness, lack of sex drive, eating more or less than usual, and sleeping more or less than usual. These feelings happen because your hormones are rapidly fluctuating, and serotonin levels dip at this point in your cycle.

If you experience particularly bad depression around your period, it could be a sign of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD. PMDD is thought to affect around 3-8% of women, and may present itself as severe depression or even suicidal thoughts. Always speak to your doctor if you think this could be affecting you.

PMS can actually affect women at any stage of their cycle, but it typically happens when estrogen levels lower a few days before menstruation, causing serotonin levels to quickly drop. Low levels of serotonin are directly linked to depression, anxiety and panic disorder, which is why the mind reacts in this way, feeling more sad, stressed, sensitive and irritated.

PMS is thought to be linked to hormonal fluctuations occurring in the second half of your menstrual cycle. When you begin ovulating, the body releases an egg, which triggers estrogen and progesterone levels to drop, and thus serotonin levels.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep and appetite, so when levels are lowered, things like sleep and food cravings are affected, and feelings of sadness occur.

This differs for everyone, as no two cycles are the same, but usually PMS should disappear as soon as estrogen and progesterone levels start to rise again, which happens a few days after your period.

Does hormonal birth control help, or make it worse?

This works very much on a person-by-person basis. Some hormonal birth control pills help reduce bloating, breast sensitivity and other physical symptoms, as well as minimising emotional symptoms like depression and anxiety. Others, however, have been known to make symptoms even worse. It often takes a few tries to find a method of contraception that works for you and doesn’t negatively affect your cycle and PMS symptoms. Always speak to your doctor about the options you have.

In the throes of PMS, it can feel like you’ll never return to your regular mood, but it’s important to maintain perspective throughout the month, and know that what goes down must come up; after a few days your mood will stabilise. A great way to maintain perspective is to track your period cycle, so you can identify which times of the month your PMS symptoms occur. Knowing this can help you prepare for symptoms of depression, avoid stressful situations and limit your exposure to anything that will make you more sad, irritated or anxious. Keeping track of when negative emotions appear can help you keep them in perspective. Managing PMS is different for everyone, but some other things to try are:

Exercise: This naturally boosts endorphin levels, which studies show can make you feel better during times of depression. Even a brisk walk outside could help you feel instantly better.

Improve nutrition: It’s easy to satisfy any junk food and sugar cravings you have when PMS rears its ugly head, but eating consciously and nutritiously during this time of the month can help avoid foods that will negatively affect your mood. You don’t have to cut them out altogether, just make mindful, balanced choices.

Sleep more: Treat yourself to a few extra hours in bed if you can. Your sleep is often affected during PMS, so don’t be opposed to going to bed an hour or so earlier than usual to get a little extra shut-eye. It could make all the difference to your mood.

Manage stress: Try to avoid stressful situations as much as possible. Use meditation, yoga, deep breathing and other self-care techniques to calm your mind.

Take vitamins: Studies have shown that the right vitamins and supplements can help relieve symptoms of PMS. Calcium is thought to reduce tiredness and appetite changes, while vitamin B6 can help boost your mood during depression.

Remember, if your PMS symptoms feel unmanageable or have increased in their intensity, there may be options you don’t yet know about. Being a woman with a period does not automatically mean we have to deal with severe depression, so don’t be afraid to ask for help from your doctor or a medical professional.

What are your PMS symptoms like, and how do you manage them? Let us know over in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic tampons (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox. So that's one less worry each month!

PMS and How It Can Affect Your Mental Health

PCOS isn’t the most commonly known condition, but chances are you know someone who suffers with it. PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, affects the function of a woman's ovaries, and statistics say around 1 in 10 women of reproductive age have it, though some estimate as high as 1 in 5 women. While it may seem like all it does is cause fertility issues, there’s a whole lot more to this condition that you need to know. Here’s a quick overview:

PCOS can cause varying symptoms from woman to woman, but the most common are irregular periods (due to ovaries not releasing eggs regularly enough), excess androgens (sometimes causing excess body hair), and enlarged ovaries (containing fluid-filled sacs that surround eggs).

Other symptoms that can occur are weight gain, acne, and even scalp hair loss. Since the disorder is rooted in metabolic dysfunction and insulin resistance, women with PCOS need to be aware of the health risks that can come along later in life, such as higher risk of developing heart disease and diabetes. And of course, women with PCOS can find it more difficult to get pregnant due to irregular ovulation, but it is not impossible.

Simply put, polycystic ovaries contain harmless follicles that are essentially sacs in which eggs develop, making them unable to be released for ovulation. This happens due to abnormal hormone levels in the body, specifically insulin, which controls levels of sugar in the body.

The cause of PCOS is unknown, but it tends to run in the family. There is no complete cure for the condition, but by working with a GP, the symptoms can be managed. Gaining weight is a common symptom of PCOS, so eating a healthy, balanced diet is encouraged, and can help you not only lose weight but also minimise some of the other symptoms.

With irregular periods, excessive hair growth and fertility issues, prescribed medications or supplementation can help. For women trying to get pregnant, if medications do not help then sometimes a simple surgical procedure called LOD (Laparoscopic Ovarian Drilling) is recommended… which is less scary than it sounds! This means using heat or a laser to remove tissue from the ovaries.

Though PCOS often shows up when a woman is in her late teens or early twenties, much of the time it isn’t properly assessed and treated until there is a problem, like when she is trying to get pregnant. By then, the condition could have progressed and further treatment is required.

With this in mind, it’s important for women to understand PCOS and the symptoms, and to self-advocate for intervention. If you believe your symptoms are abnormal and possibly in line with PCOS, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor or healthcare professional to do the necessary tests, so that you can better understand your body and begin treatment earlier if required.

Many women with PCOS are told that their chances of having children are very slim, and possibly non-existent, but it’s important to know that it can still happen, though with more difficulty. Oftentimes this struggle is due to the ovaries not releasing an egg each month, or releasing it at irregular times. As mentioned, certain medications can help with this. If, after trying medication, a woman is still unable to conceive after some time, this can be combined with procedures called intrauterine inseminations (IUI), injectable medications used in conjunction with these, or even in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

However, there is some good news! Women with PCOS often have a higher ‘ovarian reserve’, which means they could have a longer reproductive life and undergo menopause later than others. It also means that during IVF a larger number of eggs can often be harvested.

While the symptoms are known to improve slightly, PCOS unfortunately does not completely disappear when a woman experiences menopause. Symptoms will still need to be managed, so speak to your doctor about how best to do this later in life.

What else can be done to limit PCOS symptoms? 

If you suffer with PCOS, there are a few other things you can do to make symptoms more manageable.

Ditch sugar: Sugar and refined carbohydrates exacerbate the cycle of metabolic dysfunction, so quitting sugar sweetened beverages, limiting your consumption of bread, pasta, and pastries, and not going overboard on desserts, can help a lot.

Manage stress: PCOS often flares up when stress is involved, so maintaining a routine of meditation, yoga, journaling, or whatever you do to de-stress, can help keep symptoms at bay.

Exercise regularly: Daily activity, even if it’s just a brisk walk, can help manage symptoms of PCOS, and weight training is often recommended as it helps to improve insulin sensitivity. Pump that iron!

Check your thyroid and vitamin D: Women with PCOS are three times as likely to suffer from hyperthyroidism, as well as being more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency, so check these things with your doctor to ensure you’re in ship-shape

Take an all-in-one formulate supplement to help target some of the most common symptoms, find out more here about Poly Complete Support by Yoppie.

Do you suffer with PCOS? How do you manage your symptoms? Share in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic tampons & supplements for PCOS delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox. Remember less stress always helps!

PCOS: What You Need To Know

Puberty: an important part of life. Everybody goes through it, and though it’s totally normal, nobody talks about how freaky it can be at the time. Especially how daunting it can be as a young girl. Hair growing in weird places? More sweating? Periods?! It can make you want to hide in your room and not come out until it’s over, but trust us, it’s nothing to worry about. So let’s shatter the stigma and talk puberty!

There’s no handy calendar to help you figure out when puberty will begin for you. As a rough estimate though, the average age for girls to hit puberty is 11, but it can start at any time between ages 8 and 13. Hormones in the body signal puberty to start, which shows itself in a number of ways, so while your best friend may start to look taller or get her period, this doesn’t mean you are developing any slower than she is. It’s all natural!

How is puberty different for boys and girls?

You’ll likely notice the boys around you start to change too. For boys, hormones tell the body it’s time to start producing testosterone and sperm, which happens in the testicles. Once this happens, boys experience bodily changes just like girls do, except they get excess hair on their face (beards) and usually start to grow a little taller.

For girls, hormones tell the ovaries that it’s time to start making another hormone called estrogen. This tells the body, put simply, that it can now become pregnant with a baby, which is when the period starts. Remember, just because your body seems like it’s ready to have a baby, this does not mean you are emotionally ready, so don’t feel pressured into thinking that once you have started puberty it means you should be having sex. You can make that choice whenever you feel most comfortable.

Puberty often starts a ‘growth spurt’, and most girls experience this at a younger age than boys do. Girls usually grow most between the time breast buds start to develop, and about 6 months before they get their first period. You can usually expect to grow a further 1-2 inches after getting your period. Again, don’t worry if your friends are shorter or taller than you, as this could still change in adulthood.

One of the first bodily changes to happen for girls during puberty is breasts start to develop. They start as ‘breast buds’, which are small hard lumps under the nipple. These can be very tender to begin with, but don’t worry, they won’t always be sore!

Sometimes one breast will develop before the other, but this usually evens out over time. If it doesn’t, don’t worry. Most women have a slight difference in the size of each breast, and it’s totally normal.

With puberty comes hair growth, which is nothing to freak out about. At some point pubic hair starts to grow around the genitals, and some girls notice more hair on their legs and arms around this time too. Your pubic hair tends to become more coarse and curly over time.

You may also start to grow hair under your arms, and in less common places like your upper lip. While your first reaction might be to get rid of it, just know that it’s all very normal, and everybody is going through something similar. Embrace the hair and don't feel pressured to make any rushed decisions with the razor!

All the hormones flying around in your body means you may start to experience some clear or white vaginal discharge, which often begins 6-12 months before your first period. Periods start at different times for everyone, but typically the first period arrives around 2 years after you begin to develop breasts. 

Your period (or menstrual cycle) is when blood comes out of the vagina, which sounds a little gross and scary, but it’s really not at all. All that’s happening is your ovaries are releasing an egg down the fallopian tube to the uterus. Before the egg exits the ovary, your hormones tell the uterus it’s time to build up its inner lining with extra blood and tissue, in case the incoming egg is fertilised by a sperm cell and needs something to hang on to, to grow a baby. With no sperm, the egg will simply pass through unfertilised, so the uterus no longer needs the extra blood and tissue, and breaks it down to leave the body through the vagina… voila! A beautiful period! 

This lasts anywhere from 2 to 7 days, but in the beginning you might experience light, short periods. It’s usually pain-free in the early years, but your period can become slightly more uncomfortable over time, due to cramping and PMS related symptoms. This is generally normal, but if it becomes particularly painful, speak to your doctor about what you can do to minimise this. Remember, there’s no such thing as a silly question or query when it comes to your period and menstrual health. 

Puberty brings on a lot of bodily changes, and as well as those mentioned above, you may also experience an increase in sweating, acne on the face and body, weight gain, and hip widening. It’s normal to want to fight these things and seek clearer skin and a slimmer body, but remember that these are unrealistic societal standards that women do not need to live up to. Everything you’re experiencing is totally normal, and if you talk to your friends about it, you will likely find they are going through the same changes you are. Try to view them as a sign of you growing into a woman, rather than something negative happening to you as a girl.

With so much change, and so many hormones whizzing around the body on a daily basis, some girls (and boys) feel uncomfortable with their changing bodies, and their mood becomes sad, anxious and even depressed. You might feel self-conscious, overly tired, easily irritated or inexplicably sad, but this emotional rollercoaster is actually pretty normal. Understanding mood swings before you experience puberty is important, so you can be prepared and keep things in perspective; this feeling won’t last forever.

That said, you shouldn’t have to feel depressed, so if you feel overly sad for a long time it’s important to chat to your doctor, a health professional or your family about how you feel, and how they may be able to help.

Got more questions? Don’t be afraid to reach out in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic tampons (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox. Easy, simple, and kinder to your body.

Puberty: What Is Happening To My Body and Mind?!

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose… and your period is due the week of Christmas. Excellent. While its timing isn’t always perfect, your period needs a little TLC around this time of year too, and your classic Christmas feast actually has benefits for your period that you may not even know about. Dinner is served!

A standard on most Christmas dinner tables; turkey. For the meat-eaters that is. It’s not the ideal meat you could be eating while on your period (a small amount of red meat can better help replenish low iron) but it is a lean protein which can boost everything from muscle growth to thyroid hormones to immunity. The immune system is somewhat suppressed during the ovulation part of your cycle (to allow sperm to enter), so anything that boosts immunity is a good thing, especially with all the winter bugs that go around this time of year.

Don’t forget to add a generous helping of cranberry sauce to your plate, as cranberries are a superfood surprisingly high in antioxidants and rich in vitamin C and E. Plus they contain mineral manganese, which boosts metabolism, as well as potassium which is known for it's anti-cramping properties which will help with the bloating too. They’re also high in fibre, which is recommended when on your period to eliminate estrogen from the body faster.

Squash gives you vitamins A, B6, C and E, while parsnips offer up vitamins C and K, plus folate and a whole host of other micronutrients. Adding these filling fibres to your plate is a good way to load up on antioxidants, but their main draw is that you can swap some of your carb-heavy potatoes (carb bloating and period cramps don’t mix) for squash or parsnips, which can help you to feel full for longer.

Everybody loves a ball of stuffing (or two… or three…) on their plate, and while it may seem like its nutritional benefits are few, it does give a nice boost of carbohydrates which provide much-needed energy to get you through Christmas while menstruating. If you choose a whole grain stuffing, however, you’ll also be getting a lot of fibre, which is recommended for your period. Any excuse to have more stuffing, right?

Each person’s festive vegetable choices vary, but if you opt for things like calcium-rich cabbage and high-fibre broccoli then you can’t go wrong. And while spinach isn’t exactly a traditional accompaniment to your roast, it’s high in iron, as well as the vitamin C required for your body to absorb the iron. More leafy greens, please!

Wine? Good for you? You should probably avoid drinking too much alcohol during your period as this can exacerbate bloating and cramps, but if you are going to drink, a little red wine is actually rich in antioxidants, can support cardiovascular health, and is even thought to diversify your gut biome. Wine = win.

No festive meal is complete without dessert, and if your family and friends have gone with something chocolatey then it could help to ease your period pain. Studies have shown that eating chocolate that is lower in sugar but higher in cacao beans, like dark chocolate, can improve mood swings and cramps during your period, and can even help to boost iron levels. Oh, go on then…

Finish off your feast with a ginger or peppermint tea to aid digestion, ease bloating, and help soothe period cramps, and then fall asleep on the couch like you’re supposed to on Christmas day!

Will you have your period over the holidays? Let us know how you’re coping in our private Facebook group or drop us a note on Insta @itsyoppie. Don't forget that our personalised period subscription box can get organic tampons (and more) delivered easily and regularly through your letterbox. Better than being caught out during the festivities.

Festive Nutrition Tips For A Merry Menstruation!

What do you get the friend who has everything…including super heavy periods? If someone on your nice list this year suffers from painful, uncomfortable and annoyingly intense cycles, you can make them feel extra special and appreciated by helping make their period something to look forward to all year round. Have a wonder through our Christmas gift guide and have them feeling a ho ho whole lot better in no time!

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