Health Archives • Page 8 of 12 • Zoie Health

STI Testing: Exploring the Significance of STI Testing

Today, we’re diving into a topic that might not be the easiest to chat about at the dinner table, but it’s oh-so-important – STI testing. Yes, we’re talking about those sexually transmitted infections that can sneak up on you without any warning signs. So, why is getting tested for STIs a big deal, and is it worth the hassle? 1. Knowledge is Your Superpower: Spotting Trouble Early Picture this: you’re feeling fine, when suddenly, you get hit by a health issue that could’ve been nipped in the bud. That’s where STI testing comes in. Many times, these infections are like ninjas – no symptoms at first, but silently causing trouble. Regular testing gives you the upper hand by letting you know what’s going on inside your body. Finding out early means you can tackle any issues head-on and prevent them from getting worse. Plus, getting your STI test just became easier than ever with the Zoie Shop, which allows you to get your test kit delivered straight to your door! 2. Your Health, Your Priority Let’s face it – you’ve got a one-of-a-kind body, and taking care of it should be high on your to-do list. Unchecked STIs can lead to some not-so-fun complications, like fertility problems or chronic pain. Yikes, right? Getting tested gives you the peace of mind that you’re on top of your game when it comes to your health. Put your health first, and get your STI test kits here. 3. Respect Your Partner, Protect Your Partner When you’re in a relationship or even if you’re just getting to know someone, getting tested shows that you care about their health as much as your own. Having an open conversation about STI testing is like building a trust bridge between you two. Plus, it’s a two-way street – you’re not just looking out for yourself; you’re making sure your partner is in the loop too. 4. Busting Myths and Ditching Stigma Let’s break down barriers here – talking about STIs doesn’t have to be awkward or embarrassing. The more we discuss it openly, the more we erase the stigma. Getting tested is a responsible move, and spreading that message helps everyone feel more comfortable taking charge of their sexual health. Sometimes, speaking to a professional might actually help ease your anxiety surrounding the topic, and prepare you for having these conversations with your loved ones. You can chat to healthcare professionals virtually here who can help. So, let’s break those taboos, have open conversations, and keep ourselves and our partners safe. Remember, knowledge is power, and taking care of your sexual health is a pretty cool way to show some self-love. Stay informed, stay healthy, and keep the conversations flowing! Sources: National Institutes of Health, Healthline,

Empowering Your Motherhood Journey with Our 3-in-1 Fertility, Pregnancy, and New Motherhood Multivitamin, Enriched with Moringa

Are you dreaming of starting a family, currently expecting a little one, or already embracing the joys of new motherhood? No matter which stage of your motherhood journey you find yourself in, the right nutrition can make a world of difference. That’s where our revolutionary 3-in-1 Fertility, Pregnancy, and New Motherhood Multivitamin, enriched with the natural African ingredient moringa comes in. Crafted by leading healthcare experts, this powerful blend of essential nutrients is designed to support you throughout every step of your womanhood. Understanding the Importance of Proper Nutrition As women, our bodies go through incredible changes during different stages of life. From conception to pregnancy and postpartum, these transitions demand specific nutrients to support optimal health. Proper nutrition is not only vital for our well-being but also plays a crucial role in the development and well-being of our little ones. During the preconception phase, the right nutrients can enhance fertility, boost reproductive health, and prepare your body for a successful pregnancy. Throughout pregnancy, your nutrient needs increase to accommodate the growth and development of your baby. And after giving birth, the demands on your body continue as you nourish your newborn through breastfeeding. The Power of Our 3-in-1 Fertility, Pregnancy, and New Motherhood Multivitamin, Infused with Moringa Our 3-in-1 Multivitamin, now enriched with the natural African ingredient moringa, is the result of meticulous research and collaboration between gynaecologists, pharmacists, and dieticians. They have expertly curated a blend of essential nutrients tailored for each stage of your motherhood journey. Let’s explore some of the key ingredients and their benefits, including the remarkable properties of moringa: 1. Folic Acid (Vitamin B9): Vital during the preconception and early pregnancy stages, folic acid is essential for the development of the baby’s neural tube, which forms the brain and spinal cord. 2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These nourishing fats are crucial for brain development and cognitive function in both the foetus and the growing child. They also support the mother’s cardiovascular health. 3. Iron: During pregnancy, your body requires more iron to support increased blood volume and the growing baby. Iron deficiency can lead to anaemia, which may negatively impact both mother and baby. 4. Vitamin D3: Plays a critical role in the development of the baby’s bones and teeth. Additionally, vitamin D is essential for the mother’s immune system and overall well-being. 5. Choline: An essential nutrient that supports brain health and may help prevent neural tube defects during early pregnancy. 6. Magnesium: Helps alleviate muscle cramps and supports proper nerve function. It’s particularly important during pregnancy, as magnesium needs increase to aid in muscle relaxation. The Marvel of Moringa In addition to these vital nutrients, our multivitamin proudly incorporates moringa, a natural African ingredient known for its extraordinary health properties. Moringa is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It’s known to support energy levels, enhance immunity, and promote overall well-being. With moringa as part of our formula, you’re not just nourishing your body, but also connecting with the remarkable benefits of this African treasure. More Than Just a Supplement At Zoie Health, we believe that your well-being extends beyond nutrition. As part of our commitment to supporting you through your motherhood journey, we are excited to offer something extra special – free access to the Zoie Health community. The Zoie Health community is a vibrant and supportive space where you can connect with a team of health experts, including gynaecologists, nutritionists, and lactation consultants, who are ready to provide personalised support and guidance throughout your womanhood journey. We understand that navigating motherhood can be overwhelming at times, but with the Zoie Health community by your side, you can access reliable information, share experiences with other mothers, and find comfort and support during every step of your journey. More from Zoie Health In addition to our 3-in-1 Fertility, Pregnancy, and New Motherhood Multivitamin enriched with moringa, Zoie Health offers an array of services and products tailored to meet the unique needs of women: 1. Prenatal Nutrition Plans: Our certified nutritionists have designed comprehensive prenatal nutrition plans to support you during pregnancy, ensuring you and your baby receive the necessary nutrients for a healthy journey. 2. Postpartum Support: The postpartum period can be challenging, but with our postpartum support services, you’ll receive expert guidance and care to ease the transition into motherhood. 3. Lactation Consulting: Breastfeeding is a beautiful and essential part of motherhood. Our lactation consultants are available to address any breastfeeding concerns or questions you may have, ensuring a successful breastfeeding journey for you and your baby. Making a Difference Together At our core, we believe that every woman deserves access to proper nutrition and support during her motherhood journey. That’s why, with each purchase of our 3-in-1 Multivitamin enriched with moringa, we pledge to donate a portion of the proceeds to women’s NGOs that advocate for gender-based violence survivors, human trafficking survivors, and provide access to menstruation products for underprivileged girls. When you choose our supplement, you’re not only investing in your own well-being but also contributing to the betterment of other women’s lives. Together, we can make a positive impact and empower women to thrive in all aspects of their lives. Conclusion Motherhood is a transformative journey, and the right nutrition and support are essential for a smooth and healthy ride. Our 3-in-1 Fertility, Pregnancy, and New Motherhood Multivitamin, enriched with the natural African ingredient moringa is your go-to companion, packed with essential nutrients to nourish you from preconception through to postpartum. And with free access to the Zoie Health community, you’ll have a team of experts guiding you every step of the way. Choose our supplement today and experience the difference it can make in your motherhood journey. Join us in our mission to empower women, support important causes, and foster a community of strong and resilient mothers. (Note: As with any new supplement regimen, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting, particularly during pregnancy or when planning to conceive.)

Fertility 101: How Crunches and Carrots can help with Fertility

Hey there, future mommies and daddies! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of fertility and how two rockstars, exercise, and nutrition, can get you on the baby-making train! So buckle up, it’s gonna be a fun and informative ride! Sweat It Out With Exercise Exercise isn’t just about looking fabulous in those skinny jeans; it’s a fertility booster too. A little moderate physical activity can do wonders for your hormone balance, stress levels, and blood circulation, all of which play a crucial role in your reproductive health. When you engage in exercise, your body releases endorphins, which help improve your mood and reduce stress. Additionally, exercise improves blood circulation, ensuring that vital nutrients are efficiently delivered to the reproductive organs, enhancing their function. Nutrition, Your Fertility BFF Picture this: a plate filled with colorful veggies, some delicious flaxseeds, and a side of walnuts – that’s the dream team for fertility. These nutritional superheroes, like folate, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, support your eggs and sperm, giving them all the protection they need from oxidative stress. Plus, maintaining iron levels will keep your menstrual cycle in check, so say hello to spinach and lean meats! Low on folic acid and iron? You can shop for them on Zoie here and here. Plus, if you need a dietician, Zoie has plenty onboard. You can book a consultation here. Getting to That Sweet Spot Weight Your weight can play a role in this baby-making game. Being underweight or carrying extra pounds can throw a wrench in your fertility plans. So let’s find that sweet spot where your hormones are doing the happy dance. A combo of exercise and a balanced diet will get you there, no sweat (well, maybe a little). Not sure where to get started? Chat to a wellness coach here. Chill and Reduce Stress Life can be stressful enough without worrying about making babies, right? Stress messes with your hormones. When your body experiences chronic stress, it produces high levels of cortisol, which can disrupt the delicate hormonal interplay required for successful ovulation and implantation. So, find your Zen zone with exercises like yoga and meditation. Trash the Bad Guys: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Friends Now, don’t get us wrong, we love a good party, but not when it messes with your fertility mojo. Those pesky substances like alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs can mess up your baby-making plans. Reducing intake of these substances can go a long way in improving your fertility.! Seeking Pro Help: The Dream Team! If you’ve been playing the baby-making game for a while without success, it’s time to call in the pros. Fertility specialists are like the secret weapon to tackle any obstacles. They’ll give you personalized advice and sort out anything that’s holding you back. So, don’t be shy; give them a ring. We’ve got plenty on speed dial at Zoie. Book a session here. Exercise and nutrition are the dynamic duo when it comes to boosting fertility. They’ll keep your hormones in check, your stress at bay, and your body in baby-making mode. Remember, every journey is unique, and what works for one may not for another. So, find your own rhythm, take care of yourself, and enjoy the ride. With exercise, nutrition, and a sprinkle of professional help if needed, you’ll be ready to welcome that little bundle of joy into your life soon. 😉 Sources: BioMedCentral, National Center for Biotechnology Information

Tying your Tubes : Here’s everything you need to know

A Real Woman’s Story: Bongi, 34, Mom of 3. Welcome to our blog post all about Tubal Ligation, or as we like to call it, “Untying the Knot: Everything you need to know about Tying your Tubes.” And guess what? We’ve got a real woman’s story to share with you! Meet Bongiwe, a fabulous 34-year-old mom of three, budding psychologist, and an absolute music lover—she’s all about Coldplay and Kings of Leon! Now, we at Zoie are passionate about Real Women’s Health, and that’s why we sat down with Bongiwe for a little chat about her experience with getting her tubes tied. Tubal ligation is a fancy term for Tying your Tubes, a permanent, long-term form of contraception, where they block or cut the fallopian tubes so that pregnancy is a no-go. It’s kind of like saying goodbye to the baby-making factory! So, let’s dive into Bongi’s story and her journey with tubal ligation: Zizi: We’ve all been young and reckless, right? But as we grow older, we become wiser (well, most of the time!). Bongi, how have your opinions about contraception changed from your younger days to now, as a mom of three? Bongi: Oh, absolutely! Back in the day, I was a bit clueless about all things related to sexual health and contraceptives. But now, I’m all about doing my research and being informed about what goes into my body. Trust me, my first child came along when I was just eighteen, and that was an interesting experience. Speak to a professional to find out more about contraceptive options here. Zizi: Tubal ligation, quite a mouthful, huh? Can you break it down for us and tell us what led you to choose this path? Bongi: You got that right! Tubal ligation is basically Tying your Tubes, or cutting or blocking those fallopian tubes to keep those little swimmers from meeting the egg. I decided to go for it right after my third child was born via C-section. I had already tried various forms of contraceptives, but they were giving me some nasty side effects—acne, mood swings, and even vaginal dryness (not fun!). So, I said, “Bye-bye hormones, hello tubal ligation!” Plus, it meant no more running to the pharmacy every month for prescriptions—less hassle and admin for me! Read More: Which Contraceptive Is Right For You? Zizi: Making a decision like this is huge! Did you get your partner’s support on this? Bongi: It was ultimately my decision, but I did talk it over with my partner. At first, he was a bit hesitant, but he eventually understood why it made sense for us. You know, in many cases, women are the ones carrying the contraceptive load, and I wanted to take charge of that. It’s essential for couples to have open conversations about these things and find what works best for them. Zizi: Ah, the dreaded misinformation! Do you think that played a role in your partner’s initial hesitation? Bongi: Absolutely! Misinformation can mess things up big time. Also, the realization that we wouldn’t have more kids hit him hard. But we worked through it together, and it brought us even closer. Zizi: So, when did you first realize that Tying your Tubes was a possible option for you? Bongi: My fantastic OBGYN brought it up during my last visit before giving birth. Having a healthcare professional who knows your history and circumstances is crucial. I went for it at 28, which might seem young, but hey, it’s your body, and you gotta do what’s right for you! Zizi: Physically and emotionally prepping for this procedure must have been a journey. Tell us about it! Bongi: Physically, since I had it done right after my C-section, there wasn’t much extra prep needed. Emotionally, though, it was a bit of a rollercoaster. Accepting that you might never have more kids is a lot to process. But I had some heart-to-heart conversations with myself and loved ones to make sure I was making the right choice. Zizi: Okay, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty! How was your experience during the tubal ligation procedure? Bongi: It was a breeze, to be honest! Since I was already under local anesthesia during the C-section, they just added the tubal ligation to the mix. The whole thing took about 15-20 minutes, and thankfully, no complications whatsoever. Sure, the C-section recovery was a bit tough, but that’s par for the course. Zizi: Post-surgery blues, anyone? How did you feel after the procedure? Any moments of doubt? Bongi: Oh yeah, there were definitely moments when I doubted myself, especially when I faced judgment from people who didn’t understand my decision. Cultural taboos can be a pain! But I stood my ground and reminded myself that I had done my research, weighed the pros and cons, and made an informed choice. In the end, I’m grateful for it. Zizi: Addressing stigma head-on, love that! So, how did you handle all that judgement surrounding this topic? Bongi: Knowledge is power, and I am not afraid to bombard people with information! I armed myself with information and answered every question thrown my way. If someone didn’t get it, I’d explain it again (and again if needed). Education is key, and if sharing my experience can help even one person, it’s worth it. Zizi: High five to that! Now, let’s talk about the fun stuff! Has this procedure affected your sexual health or libido? Bongi: Nope, not one bit! My mojo is still intact and doing just fine. Tubal ligation hasn’t put a damper on my love life! Zizi: That’s what we like to hear! Alright, what advice would you give to any woman considering having their tubes tied? Bongi: Take your time, girl! Don’t rush into it. Do your research, chat with your partner, and make sure it’s the right choice for you. It’s a big decision, but when you’re sure, it’s the easiest form of contraception you’ll ever have! Zizi: Perfect advice! And for all our curious

Contraception & Your Sex Life: The Good, Bad and In Between.

Today, we’re diving into the exciting world of contraception and how it can play a part in your sexy adventures. Because, let’s face it, when it comes to getting it on, there’s more to consider than just the standard stuff, am I right? Understanding Libido: Alright, let’s talk about libido. You know, that inner fire that drives you wild in the bedroom? Libido is all about your sexual desire, and it’s as unique as a fingerprint. We’ve all got our own things that get us revved up, and that’s what makes us so wonderfully diverse! It can vary greatly from person to person and can be influenced by numerous factors, including physical, psychological, and hormonal aspects. It’s crucial to remember that libido is a highly individual experience, and what affects one person’s desire may not have the same impact on someone else. It is completely normal for people with lower libido to use different products to increase their libido. Read More: 5 Things Sex Coaches Really Wish You Knew About Sex Hormonal Contraception and Libido: Now, here’s where contraception comes into the mix. Hormonal contraceptives, like those fancy combination birth control pills, patches, injections, and IUDs, tinker with your hormone levels to keep pregnancy at bay. And while they do their job in the birth control department, they might also have a say in your libido. Some folks experience a bit of a libido dip due to the hormonal roller coaster, with testosterone levels potentially taking a hit. But hey, don’t panic! Not everyone’s in the same boat. Some lucky souls might find themselves with a libido boost, thanks to newfound peace of mind or mood improvements. So, it’s like a hormonal lucky draw! Additionally, the hormonal changes induced by these contraceptives may affect other factors such as mood, energy levels, and overall sexual satisfaction. Non-Hormonal Contraceptives and Libido: But hey, don’t worry if hormones aren’t your thing. There are non-hormonal options like condoms, diaphragms, and copper IUDs that keep the swimmers at bay without messing with your hormone levels. So, these are less likely to impact your libido directly, and that’s great news! Shop your favourite condoms here. Psychological Factors and Libido: Now, let’s not forget about the power of your mind. Yes, your thoughts and feelings can play a big role in the libido game. Worries about pregnancy or the simple presence of a physical barrier (hello, condom!) can influence how frisky you’re feeling. So, open communication with your partner and healthcare provider is a must to tackle any psychological hurdles and find solutions. Finding the Right Contraceptive Method: The takeaway here, my friends, is that choosing the right contraception is like finding the perfect pair of jeans—it’s a personal thing! Chat it out with your healthcare provider, and together, you can discover what works best for you. And if you find yourself experiencing some unexpected libido twists and turns, don’t hesitate to explore other options. Remember, a healthy and satisfying sex life is all about finding that sweet spot that fits your lifestyle and desires like a glove. Now, here’s a juicy tidbit for you: when it comes to sexuality and contraception, it’s like a wild roller coaster ride. It’s not just about considering the external or biological stuff; oh no! Our emotions and psyche can be the secret sauce that either sets the mood on fire or keeps it chill. So, embrace the complexities, enjoy the journey, and keep the passion alive! And there you have it! The thrilling world of contraception and libido demystified. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for you and your pleasure-seeking desires. You can also do a virtual contraceptive consult from the comfort of your home with Zoie Health’s My Contraceptive service, and have a professional help you choose the best contraceptive option for you. Read More: Which Contraceptive Option Is Right For You? If you have any burning questions about contraceptives, or just want to join a community of women to help support you with similar issues, download the Zoie Health App and join the Contraception circle to learn everything you need to know. Sources: PubMed, MDPI

Period tracking apps are an easy and effective way to monitor your reproductive and menstrual health.

Period tracking apps: What are the benefits & how to use one

When they say there’s an app for everything, they mean it! Period tracking apps are quickly becoming one of the most helpful tools when it comes to managing your cycle. Find out what period tracking apps are, the benefits and how you can start using one today. Read more: Is this normal? Period FAQs and their answers What does it do? As you can probably guess, period tracking apps help you to keep track of your period but that’s not all they can be used for. They can help you to monitor every part of your cycle so you can better understand your unique body and reproductive system better. Shop now: Zoie Health period care products What are the benefits? Since each woman’s cycle is unique, tracking your individual cycle will help you to better understand what’s happening in your body. Using a period tracking app simply makes the process easier. With a period tracking app, you can: A period tracking app is a helpful tool for monitoring your cycle but doesn’t replace a real healthcare professional so contact your doctor if you have any health concerns with regards to your cycle. How to use it Like most apps, period tracking apps should guide you on how to use them effectively. When starting off, you should input all the requested information about your last period and continue to do this every month. After using this for a few months, the app will be able to tell you useful information about your cycle like how long your period and overall cycle are, when your fertility window is and when you could expect to have certain symptoms. If you have questions regarding your period or fertility, book a hassle-free virtual consultation with a Zoie Health professional by clicking here. Sources: Mayo Clinic, Planned Parenthood, Office on Women’s Health, National Health Service (NHS)

Known as morning sickness, nausea is a common pregnancy symptom.

Common pregnancy symptoms & how to deal with them

During pregnancy, your body goes through many changes and while each pregnancy is unique, there are some common pregnancy symptoms that many mothers-to-be experience. We’ve created a list of some of the most common pregnancy symptoms along with how you can manage them while being safe for you and your baby. Nausea & morning sickness This is probably the most well-known symptom associated with being pregnant. Feeling nauseous or throwing up is likely linked to the hormonal changes happening in your body. A few ways to deal with this common pregnancy symptom are: Read more: 10 best foods for pregnancy for health babies Tiredness & fatigue Growing an entire human being can be draining on your body, leading to you feeling exhausted. Be sure to prioritize rest by taking short naps can help with sleepiness during the day and aiming to get 8+ hours of sleep at night. Making sure you stay hydrated, eating nutritious foods and getting more frequent, low intensity exercise can help to minimize the feeling of fatigue. Shop now: Zoie Health’s pregnancy accessories Emotional changes & mood swings Many expecting mothers say that intense changes to their mood are a common pregnancy symptom. With the large increase in hormones in the body, many pregnant women experience mood swings that are uncharacteristic for them. To help regulate your hormones, try incorporating activities that will help reduce stress like meditation or low-intensity exercise. Talking to your friends and family can also help you to feel emotionally supported. Shop now: Zoie Health pregnancy supplements If you are pregnant and have any concerns about these common pregnancy symptoms or anything else that you are experiencing, speaking to a healthcare professional will be the best way to get the right kind of care and treatment for your unique pregnancy. To book a virtual appointment with a Zoie Health professional today, click here. Sources: American Pregnancy Association

While every women is different, those dealing with heavy periods may need to monitor their iron levels

Heavy periods? You should check your iron levels

It’s normal for periods to last for 3-7 days, but if you are experiencing heavy periods there may be an underlying health condition causing this. Losing a lot of blood during your period can lead to low iron levels which can negatively impact your health. We want you to better understand what causes this and what can be done about it. What causes this? Women who experience heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia, often bleed more heavily or for longer. This means the body is losing large amounts of blood and tissue filled with iron. Over time, this can lead to the iron store in the body being depleted and causing an iron deficiency or even anemia. There are multiple things that could cause you to have heavy periods including: Read more: How to know if you have PCOS, endometriosis or both? What can I do to improve my iron levels? Introducing more iron into your diet is one of the best ways to increase iron levels in your body. Try eating foods that contain higher amount of iron in them, some examples are: Supplementing with iron tablets is also a convenient and stable way of making sure you’re getting enough iron daily. Combining an iron supplement with vitamin C, either in a supplement form or in your diet, can help with absorption. Read more: 5 reasons you should start taking the right supplements today + Quiz If you are experiencing heavy periods or are just feeling uncertain about your period, speaking with a women’s healthcare professional can help you to find the right diagnosis and treatment for you. To book a virtual consultation with a Zoie Health professional, click here. Sources: Mayo Clinic, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, National Institute of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Skip the lines and start using an online pharmacy today!

Why you should use an online pharmacy according to this pharmacist

Life’s busy – we all know that. Who has the time to stand in long lines to collect much-needed medication when we have so many other important things on our plate? That’s why Jani van der Hoven (M.Phil Clinical Pharmacology), one of our resident pharmacists, wants you to know about Zoie Health’s online pharmacy. Here’s how our online pharmacy can benefit you and how you can use it. The benefits: “Members can easily order medications and healthcare products from the comfort of their own home or office, saving time and effort. This is especially beneficial for busy professionals, parents, or those with tight schedules who find it difficult to visit a pharmacy during a busy day”, says Jani van der Hoven. Read more: The number 1 postpartum guide for new moms Some of the other benefits of using an online pharmacy include: According to Jani van der Hoven, “Zoie Health’s online pharmacy is designed to offer you convenience, accessibility, and expert support. We strive to provide you with a personalised experience, ensuring that your health is our top priority.” Read more: 5 reasons you should start taking the right supplements today + Quiz The process: These are the quick and simple steps for using the Zoie Health online pharmacy: “If you need any advice or guidance regarding over-the-counter medication, a pharmacist will be available to assist you. We are here to ensure that you make informed decisions and select the right medication for your needs”, say Jani van der Hoven. Click here to visit Zoie Health’s online pharmacy today. If you would like to book a hassle-free virtual consultation with Zoie Health’s experts, click here.

When it comes to the best period products, we've created a list to help you find your menstrual match!

Our list of the best period products

As women, we’re all too familiar with the usual symptoms of our periods. Thankfully, we have access to a large number of the best period products to help deal with our monthly cycle and improve the way we experience these symptoms. While each of us has our differences in how we like to handle our unique cycle, we’ve created a list of some of the best period products available so you can find the tools that best suit you and your body. Period cups A popular alternative to pads and tampons, menstrual cups have gained popularity in recent years. One of the main benefits is being able to reuse the same cup for several years, as the cup can be washed and stored in between uses. Most cups also have a high volume capacity, meaning that they hold more blood than traditional pads and tampons. They can also be worn for long periods of time without the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) which is a small but possible risk when using tampons for extended periods of time. Shop now: Menstrual cup Period underwear For those who experience discomfort when using tampons or pads, period underwear may be the best period product alternative on this list. While they may look like a regular pair of panties, they have a special lining which is very absorbent so you won’t need to worry about leaking or bleeding through onto your clothes. Once they’re been used, simply throw them in with the rest of your washing so they’re ready to use during your next period. It’s recommended that they’re washed in cold water but washing instructions are provided for the best way to maintain them. They are also a great option while sleeping, as they are as comfortable as normal underwear, or for those who have recently started having their periods and are still getting used to using other period products. Shop now: Period underwear Water bottles This is a classic, almost being stereotypical in sitcoms and movies, yet still being one of the best period products out there. Placing heat on the areas where you experience cramps can bring relief and comfort during your period. A modern improvement on this is the chargeable water bottle. All the benefits of a regular one without the risk of spilling hot water all over the place or even yourself. Simply plug the charger into the water bottle and you’ll have a nice warm bottle in minutes, all without needing to replace the liquid within. Shop now: Rechargeable hot water bottle Organic pads & tampons Most of us are familiar with regular tampons and pads, having probably used them from our very first period up until today. The major difference between those and the organic version is that the cotton used for the pads and tampons are free from pesticides, fragrances, dyes and bleaches. While this may seem like a small difference, it could make a large impact on your reproductive health as being exposed to these chemicals could be negatively affecting your body without you even realizing it. Those with skin sensitivity can benefit greatly from switching to the organic version. Painkillers While these can be used for more than just periods, many of us rely on low-dose painkillers during our period. These medications are available without a script from a doctor and help to reduce the pain often associated with cramping during your period. Popular options for painkillers include: Shop now: Zoie Health CBD Pain Relief While these options are sufficient for most women, a stronger painkiller may be necessary for those who experience more extreme symptoms. This could be caused by a number of things so if you experience painful cramps, speak to your doctor about your options. Read more: Is this normal? Period FAQs and their answers TENS device Probably the newest product on our list, a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation or TENS device uses harmless, low-level electric currents to help reduce the pain of period cramps. Some of these devices are small and discreet enough that they can be worn while out of the house. The electrodes are attached to the skin in the area where you feel the pain and once you turn the device on, it helps to stimulate the area. This helps to release endorphins as well as to block the pain signal in the body, both of which help to lessen the pain caused by cramping. Read more: PMDD: What is it exactly? Period tracking apps We all know our typical period cycle lasts about 28 days and yet somehow it manages to sneak up on us, usually when we plan on wearing a bikini or our new white pants. By using a period tracking app, you’ll know exactly when your next period is due plus you can monitor your cycle for any irregularities. It can also be a useful tool for those trying to conceive as these apps also track when you’re ovulating. Being aware of your fertility window can help increase your odds of having a positive pregnancy result. After downloading your app of choice, start inputting the relevant information about your cycle. You’ll receive helpful notifications about the different phases you’re experiencing, allowing you to better understand your unique cycle. Shop now: Zoie Health’s PMS/Period Bundle Speaking to a women’s healthcare professional can help you to find the best period products for you and treatments to help deal with any symptoms you may be experiencing. To speak to a Zoie Health professional, click here to book a virtual consultation today. Sources: Zoie Health professionals, NIH, Harvard, American Academy of Family Physicians, NIH, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic

Category: Health