Vulvar itching is a skin symptom, and the vulva is skin. It is subject to the same conditions that affect skin anywhere else on your body, plus a few that occur only here. Yeast infections get the credit for nearly all of it, but studies have repeatedly found that many women who buy over-the-counter antifungal…
DetailsChronic pelvic pain is pain below your belly button and between your hips that lasts six months or longer. It can be constant or come and go, and it may or may not be tied to your period. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists estimates it affects roughly 15% to 20% of women between…
DetailsVaginal health depends heavily on a bacterial ecosystem called the vaginal microbiome. In most women, a healthy vaginal pH is between 3.8 and 4.5. That acidity is what discourages the overgrowth of yeast and the bacteria involved in bacterial vaginosis. Diet is one of several factors that influence this system, alongside hormones, medications, and hygiene…
DetailsVaginal dryness is a lack of moisture in the vaginal tissue, and it is far more common than most women realize. It can cause itching, burning, irritation, and discomfort during sex or everyday activities. While many people assume it only happens during menopause, women can experience vaginal dryness at almost any age and for many…
DetailsHeadaches that occur right before your period are a real and well-documented pattern, not just a coincidence. Many women notice a headache or full-blown migraine in the days leading up to their period, often accompanied by cramps, mood changes, and fatigue. These are known as menstrual or hormonal headaches, and they are tied closely to…
DetailsHeavy menstrual bleeding is more than just an inconvenient period. Known medically as menorrhagia, it means bleeding that is heavier or lasts longer than what is typical, to the point that it affects your daily life. Many women assume their heavy periods are simply normal for them, but bleeding that soaks through tampons and pads,…
DetailsA Pap smear is a quick, routine test that checks the cells of your cervix for changes that could one day lead to cervical cancer. During the test, your provider uses a small tool to gently collect a sample of cells from the surface of your cervix. It only takes a few minutes and is…
DetailsAn ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside one of the ovaries. Up to 30% of women will have at least one cyst at some point in their lives, and the majority cause no symptoms. Many cysts come and go without you ever knowing they were there. But some types can…
DetailsIrregular periods are menstrual cycles that fall outside the typical range of every 21 to 35 days. Most women experience some changes in their cycle at different points in life, and not every shift is cause for concern. But when you have an irregular period for more than a few months, it often points to…
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