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Discover our 5 reasons for why you should start taking the right supplements for you today

5 reasons you should start taking the right supplements today

When it comes to improving your health, taking the right supplements could be a complete game-changer. Taking the correct types of supplements for your body and personal needs could have multiple positive effects on your lifestyle and overall well being. Let’s take a look at 5 reasons why you should start taking the right supplements today: 1. Improve your overall health Supplements, when used correctly, can help fill any nutritional gaps in your diet, and help you to manage your intake of all essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that you need to maintain your health.  Certain supplements are designed to help those with particular health conditions or concerns while others are formulated for overall health for the majority of people. When taking the correct supplements for your lifestyle and needs, you can help maintain and improve your health. These benefits can be seen in a multitude of areas in your body including: Shop now: Zoie Health Vitamins & Supplements 2. Customize them to your unique needs As individual women, our bodies are unique and have different needs. Some of us may need more or less of certain nutrients and when these needs aren’t met, we can experience deficiencies. By turning to supplements, these issues can be addressed in a personalized way.  This is also ideal for those who have certain dietary restrictions like being vegetarian or vegan. For those who choose to exclude animal products and by-products, experiencing a lack of vital minerals and vitamins is common. Healthcare providers can determine your current nutritional needs and give you a personalized dietary and supplement plan to help improve your health. This will allow you to better understand your body and provide the nutrition it needs, by incorporating certain foods into your diet or taking daily supplements to maintain the appropriate levels of vitamins and minerals you need. Read more: These are the best super foods studies show that boost fertility 3. Provide additional support during specific milestones Like with many aspects of life, our needs change over time; this is exactly the same with nutrition. During certain stages of life or milestone events, such as pregnancy, breastfeeding or menopause, the amounts of certain nutrients can increase or subside. For pregnant women, it is common to be prescribed with a number of different supplements as they are considered important for the growth and development of the baby in the womb as well as the health of the expecting mother.  Menopause is another example of where supplementing is useful. Many changes occur in the body during this time and by taking the right supplements, this helps to manage common symptoms and balance hormones. By taking the right supplements with these specific events in mind, you can give your body exactly what it needs during these phases to have a beneficial outcome for your health. Shop now: Zoie Health Pregnancy Supplements 4. It’s simple, convenient and practical As modern women, we all have busy, jam-packed lives juggling work, family, exercise, hobbies, and other responsibilities. The thought of needing to add just one more thing to this overfilled plate sounds exhausting. Supplementing in the form of pills is probably the most practical and convenient way to do it as you know the exact amounts of each nutrient, removing any confusing guesswork.  Taking supplements is a low-effort, high-impact way of improving your general health. With the use of tools like a medication organizer, incorporating the right supplements into your schedule will be quick and easy to do. Take the quiz: What type of supplements should you be taking? 5. Enhanced your fitness Supplements are a great addition to your fitness routine. While some supplements help to improve your athletic performance, others can assist you in your recovery after working out. You don’t need to be a professional athlete in order to see the benefits of using the right supplements. Whether you enjoy hitting the gym first thing or going for a relaxed walk to unwind after a long work day, using supplements designed to improve your workouts will have a positive impact no matter your fitness level. Curious about which supplements would be the best to take? Take the Zoie Health quiz “What type of supplements should you be taking?” to find out the right supplements for you or click here to book a hassle-free virtual consultation with our Zoie Health professionals who can help you with any nutritional concerns. Sources: Zoie Health professionals, U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Health Service (NHS), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, National Osteoporosis Foundation, American Dietetic Association

As women, we all have period FAQs when it comes to our cycles.

Is this normal? Period FAQs and their answers

Just like women, periods aren’t one-size-fits-all yet there are many period FAQs that we may not want to ask out loud. Even when we do, we may not get the best answers and can feel even more confused than before. When women better understand their periods and what’s going on with their cycle, they can feel empowered by that knowledge and know how they can seek out the help they need when they need it. Speak to a qualified healthcare provider about all you period FAQs so you can get the best treatment for you. Here’s our list of period FAQs and the answers every woman should know about: How do I know if my menstrual cycle is a normal length? A menstrual cycle typically lasts between 21 to 35 days, with an average cycle length of 28 days. One cycle is usually counted as the number of days between the start of your period until the start of your next period. In order to find out how long your period is and to see if your cycle is regular, tracking your menstrual cycle is important. Start by marking the first day of your period on a calendar and the first day of your next period. Then count the number of days between these two dates to determine your cycle length. Do this over several months and see how many days each cycle is and if it’s consistent. Many women are now using period tracking apps in order to keep track of your menstrual cycle and to see when they are becoming irregular. Monitoring your cycle is a great tool for understanding your reproductive health and knowing when something could be wrong. What are normal PMS symptoms and how can I manage them? Premenstrual syndrome (commonly known as PMS) is a group of physical and emotional symptoms that happen in the days leading up to your period.  Symptoms of PMS usually include:  Eating more nutritious foods, getting regular exercise, and using stress management techniques like meditation can help to alleviate these symptoms. If you are experiencing more severe symptoms, you can talk to your healthcare provider about this period FAQ and what type of medication they would recommend to manage your symptoms. Read more: PMDD: What is it exactly? Why do I experience cramps during my period? Menstrual cramps are caused when the muscles around uterus begin contracting in order to shed its lining, leading to you having a period. The uterus does the same thing during childbirth, to help deliver the baby as well as the placenta. This is a normal symptom that many women experience during their period and while they can be uncomfortable, they should not be extremely painful to the point that you cannot do daily activities. My menstrual cramps are painful, how can I manage them? Dysmenorrhea is a medical name used to describe painful menstrual cramps. If you are having painful cramps during your cycle, taking over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, can help to lessen the pain.  Other options include applying heat to the lower abdomen where you can feel the cramps as well as getting regular exercise. Both of these options can help to alleviate the pain caused by cramping. Shop now: Zoie Health Period Care products Should I be concerned if my period blood is a different colour than usual? Period blood can range in colour from bright red to dark brown. This usually depends on the age of the blood and how long it’s been in your body for. A brighter shade is usually fresh blood while darker tones indicate that the blood is older.  However, if your period blood is an unusual colour and/or has a foul smell, it may be a sign of an infection or another medical condition. If this happens, contact your healthcare provider to find out what treatment you need. Can period blood be a different texture or consistency? Yes, period blood can vary in both texture and consistency. Sometimes it may be thick and clumpy or thin and watery.  Just like with a significant change to colour, if you experience significant changes in the texture or consistency of your period blood, speak with your healthcare provider about this period FAQ to find out what may be the cause of these changes and how you can treat any underlying conditions. When should I be concerned about heavy bleeding during my period? Heavy or prolonged bleeding during your period is known as menorrhagia. You may have menorrhagia if you need to change your tampon or pad very frequently or if you are passing blood clots larger than a R2 coin.  If you experience heavy bleeding during your period, it may be linked to an underlying medical condition such as fibroids or endometriosis.   Heavy menstrual bleeding can also affect the iron levels in your blood and can cause anemia. This is a condition when there is a shortage of red blood cells in the body.  Symptoms of anemia include: If you have heavy periods and are experiencing the above symptoms, you may want to speak to your doctor about taking the correct kinds of supplements and medications for your needs. Shop now: Zoie Health Vitamins & Supplements Can I still get pregnant while on my period? While it is less likely to happen then while you are ovulating, it is possible to get pregnant while on your period. This is especially true if you tend to have a shorter menstrual cycle.  This is because sperm can stay alive for up to five days inside the uterus and cervix. So if you have sex near the end of your period and then you begin to ovulate shortly after that, you have a higher chance of becoming pregnant.  If you do not want to become pregnant, it is important that you and your sex partner use contraceptives correctly no matter where you are in your cycle. Read more: Which contraceptive option is right for you? I’ve missed my

Painful sex caused by vaginismus may make you feel trapped but you are not alone.

Painful sex? Learn about vaginismus and how to enjoy sex again

When we think of sex, thoughts of pleasure and enjoyment usually aren’t too far behind. Yet for those with vaginismus, sex can be quite an uncomfortable and even painful experience. If this is something that you struggle with, you may feel isolated but it is important to remember that you’re not alone.  Vaginismus is a condition that affects many women of all ages from around the world, but with the right care and support, is a treatable and manageable condition. Let’s break down what vaginismus is and how you can effectively manage it. What is vaginismus? Vaginismus is a condition where your vaginal muscles contract and tighten involuntarily during sex or another form of penetration such as having a routine gynecological exam. This can cause extreme amounts of pain and discomfort, sometimes leading to your sexual partner being unable to penetrate during sex. For those women dealing with vaginismus, this condition has a negative impact in multiple areas of their lives including their relationships with others especially sexual partners, their physical and mental health as well as their perceived self-worth. The symptoms of this condition can worsen due to this negative impact on their lives, creating a difficult cycle to break without the right kind of help. Symptoms While pain and discomfort during sex is usually the main symptom, other symptoms of vaginismus may include: Read more: 5 things sex coaches really wish you knew about sex Causes A variety of factors can lead to vaginismus including physical, psychological, or emotional issues. Some of the common causes include: Read more: How to know if you have PCOS or endometriosis, or both In order to effectively treat vaginismus, doctors and other medical professionals must first figure out what is the root of the issue. Once this has been identified, effective treatment can begin. Often medical professionals will work alongside therapists and counselors in order to create a well-rounded treatment plan for you. Treatment options Treatments will vary depending on the underlying cause of vaginismus so your treatment will be unique to your individual needs. These treatments may include: Read more: Chronic pelvic pain: 4 ways to *really* manage your mental health In some cases, medication may also be prescribed by a healthcare professional. These medications can include a low-dose antidepressant or anti-anxiety medication if the cause of vaginismus is linked to any anxiety or fear related to having sex.  Additionally, a prescription for a topical anesthetic, such as lidocaine, can help to reduce pain or discomfort when applied just before any sexual activity.  With the right treatment plan and appropriate care, women with vaginismus are able to manage their symptoms enough that they can use tampons, have a gynecological exam done and enjoy sex again, all without the fear of experiencing extreme pain and discomfort. Shop now: Zoie Health’s CBD pain relief Getting a diagnosis While you may be experiencing the symptoms and suspect that you may have vaginismus, it is important to get proper diagnosed before beginning any form of treatment on your own. Working with a healthcare provider who specializes in women’s sexual health is vital. They will be able to give you the correct diagnosis as well as the best care and treatment for you.  Our Zoie Health professionals are ready to help you find the right treatment plan personalised for you. Click here to book a virtual consultation today. Sources: Zoie Health professionals, Mayo Clinic, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, National Health Service UK, National Institutes of Health

Diagnosis is the first step in treating syphilis, medical professionals like our Zoie Health experts can help you with this.

Let’s talk about syphilis: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention

When it comes to talking about syphilis, as well as other sexually transmitted infection, many of us would rather shy away from this taboo topic and remain in the dark. But being informed this STI is the best way to stop it from spreading and empower those who have been infected to get the treatment they need to make a full recovery. What is syphilis?  Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacteria called Treponema pallidum. The way in which this infection is spread is through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with a person who is already infected.  Syphilis can be particularly dangerous for expecting mothers as, in some cases, the infection can be transmitted from the pregnant mother to her unborn baby in the womb. Read more: Gonorrhea: Here’s the latest plus what to know about it Symptoms: Symptoms of syphilis can vary depending on the stage of the infection and will change overtime if it remains untreated. Some people do not experience any symptoms at all yet are still able to infect others. In the early stages, a painless sore or ulcer (known as a chancre) appears on the body about three weeks after infection most likely in the area where the infection was contracted. This chancre will heal on it’s own within a few weeks of it first developing. During the secondary stage, a rash may develop on the body, often including the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.  Other symptoms that occur with the rash may include: After this, latent syphilis can occur: this is when the the infection is still living in the body but there are no visible symptoms often leading to people believing there is no issue. This stage can last for several years. In the later stage of syphilis, the infection can cause damage to many areas of the body including the brain, heart, liver, bones, joints and nerves. A loss of vision and hearing as well as paralysis and dementia can also happen when it remains untreated. Getting diagnosed:  When it comes to syphilis, early diagnosis is vital for treatment and recovery. Rapid testing kits are fast and easy to use as they usually take less than 20 minutes to get results and many can be done in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Shop here: Zoie Health’s Syphilis Test Kit If you receive a positive test result, it is recommended that you seek out medical assistance for the health and safety of you and your sexual partners. Having a healthcare professional confirm the test results is the best way to begin receiving the appropriate treatment. Treatment options: If diagnosed early enough, syphilis can be treated with a course of antibiotics, usually penicillin. Even if your symptoms disappear, it is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider.  This can lead to the infection not being treated completely and risk having the symptoms return but will now be more resistant to medical treatment. If left untreated, syphilis can cause numerous serious health problems, damage to several organs and even death in the most serious cases. How to prevent infection: To prevent being infected with syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases, practicing safe sex is essential. This includes using condoms during sex and getting tested regularly for STIs. It is also important to disclose any STIs to your sexual partners and ask them to do the same for you before engaging in sex. Shop here: Zoie Health’s STD Combo Test Kit If you have had sex with an infected person or you are experiencing symptoms of syphilis, contact a health provider as soon as possible to get the correct diagnosis and treatment for you. For fast and discreet medical assistance, click here to book an online consultation with a Zoie Health professional today. Sources: Zoie Health medical experts, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Find out exactly what medications and remedies to use for cold and flu during pregnancy.

Cold and flu during pregnancy? Here’s our list of baby-safe medications and remedies

Dealing with cold and flu during pregnancy may seem confusing but is very manageable if you know what to do. The first sign of a sniffle will probably have you reaching for your go-to medications but if you’re currently pregnant, you’ll want to make sure everything you use is safe for you and your baby. Some common and seemingly harmless products may cause some negative side effects for expecting mother. This is why many moms-to-be look for alternative treatments and choose to use a combination of natural remedies and pharmaceutical products during their pregnancy. Pregnancy-safe natural remedies Natural remedies are great options that can be used whether or not you’re pregnant. They often aren’t as potent as pharmaceuticals but offer more gentle relief for cold and flu during pregnancy. Here are some common natural remedies for cold and flu symptoms: It is important to remember that natural remedies should not replace medical treatment, and expecting mothers should always consult with their healthcare provider before using any natural remedies. Shop now: Zoie Health’s Pregnancy Products Pregnancy-safe medications As pregnant women are generally excluded from clinical trials for safety reasons, there is a limited number for medications considered safe for expecting mother to use. Here are some commonly used medications that are safe for cold and flu during pregnancy: Your doctor or healthcare provider may prescribe you other medications. These decisions are made at an individual level and they will take into consideration your medical history and the severity of your symptoms as well as the potential risks and benefits of the treatment. Shop now: Zoie Health’s Online Pharmacy Medications to avoid during pregnancy While these medications are considered safe to use normally, they can cause potential harm to pregnant women. Avoid using these and look for alternatives. Painkillers such as Ibuprofen (Neurofen) and Aspirin (Disprin) are not recommended for cold and flu during pregnancy. While it is particularly important to avoid use during the third trimester, it is better to refrain from using these medications throughout your pregnancy. While they are considered safe to use normally, they can have a negative impact on your baby’s development so it is best to use suitable alternatives. Read more: The Ultimate Childbirth Checklist Additional measures for expecting mothers In addition to taking medications and remedies, here are some other steps you can take in order to help manage the symptoms of cold and flu during pregnancy. These simple steps include: It is important to always check with a healthcare provider before using any medications, remedies or treatments during pregnancy. This is to ensure the health and safety of both your and your baby during your pregnancy.  Our Zoie Health professionals are ready to assist you in finding the best treatment options to keep you and your baby safe. To book a hassle-free virtual consultation today, click here. Sources: Zoie Health medical experts, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Chest,

A severe form of PMS, PMDD affects 5% of women globally.

PMDD: What is it exactly?

Who is affected? Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, commonly known as PMDD, is a severe type of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). About 5% of women globally are diagnosed with this condition and is more often linked to women who have a personal or family history of depression, anxiety, and/or other mood disorders.  This chronic health condition causes significant emotional and physical symptoms which interfere with the daily lifestyle, activities and relationships of women diagnosed with PMDD. Read more: Tools to help manage your mental health What are the symptoms? Common PMDD symptoms include: These symptoms need to happen consistently in the second half of your menstrual cycle and are severe enough to impact the quality of daily activities and relationships in order to be diagnosed with PMDD. The symptoms also usually go away a few days after the start of your period. What are treatment options? Treatments for PMDD may include lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination of both. Examples of lifestyle changes can include: Some women choose to use medications to help relieve some of the physical symptoms. These can include: While PMDD is a serious condition, it’s important to remember that, with the right treatment plan and professional care, many women are able to manage and reduce their symptoms and still experience an excellent quality of life.  Shop now: Zoie Health’s period care products How do I get diagnosed? If you think you may have PMDD, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider so you can receive the correct diagnosis, treatment plan and care that you need. Zoie Health’s expert healthcare professionals are ready to help you, click here to book your virtual consultation today. Sources: Zoie Health medical experts, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, National Institute of Mental Health, Mayo Clinic

Zoie Health and Uber partner to offer female drivers wellness services

Zoie Health and Uber are proud to announce an initiative to provide bespoke health and wellness services to female drivers on Uber and their families. This initiative, which went live on the Uber app during International Women’s Month, allows female drivers on the platform free access to the Zoie Health app for a year on the Zoie Plus package. Through the Zoie Health app, these women and their families can access a range of features and services, including: How Zoie Health and Uber are working together “We’re thrilled to be working with Uber to provide this to female drivers on their platform to improve their overall wellness. Alongside their work as drivers, they also take care of loved ones. So with this benefit, we hope not only to help keep them safer in their daily lives, but also give them affordable and convenient healthcare that saves them time and money”. Thato Schermer, co-founder Zoie Health. We cannot talk about women’s health without talking about women’s safety. According to the 2019 Global Homicide Report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), South Africa is in the top five countries with the highest rape, femicide and female assault statistics in the world. This reality means that female drivers want peace of mind, which is why drivers have access to medical and security emergency services through the panic button, powered by Aura –  a third-party emergency services provider, while on a trip.  Mpho Sebelebele, Head of Communications for Uber South Africa says, “We are excited about this new addition to our platform through Zoie Health, as it will help raise the bar on women’s safety and empowerment. We are committed to helping female drivers on the platform grow, and this wellness feature is a great step towards empowering them so they bring the best version of themselves to their businesses and their families.” Disclaimer Drivers will be under no obligation to (i) accept receipt of or (ii) use any products and/or services mentioned herein. Uber is not responsible for the products or services offered by other companies. Uber in no way whatsoever warrants as to the quality of any products or services nor does Uber make any claims as to the effectiveness, medical or health benefits related to the use of such products or services. Drivers are encouraged to consider the use of such products and/or services at their own discretion.