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The uncomfortable truth about STIs: You might not feel a thing

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common. According to UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) annual data, 401,800 STI diagnoses were recorded in 2023, which is an increase of 4.7% when compared with 2022. However, these figures only show a partial image of the prevalence of STIs in the UK. The actual number of new STIs –…

Endometriosis diagnosis wait times: How to get a prompt diagnosis

If you suspect that you or a loved one may have endometriosis, you might be concerned about how long it can take to obtain a diagnosis. According to research by Endometriosis UK, it takes an average time of eight years and 10 months to obtain an endometriosis diagnosis, a figure that increased by 10 months…

IUD coil insertion pain and what you can do to reduce it

Intrauterine device (IUD, also known as the ‘coil’) insertion is a routine procedure, with the IUD having been a popular form of contraception since the 1950s. Much like a smear test, it is often described by healthcare providers as a little uncomfortable, but painless. However, with conversations expanding around feminine health, many women are coming…

Pain between periods – is it ever normal?

Pelvic pain between periods can often be uncomfortable and confusing. While period cramps during menstruation are common and usually considered normal, pain that occurs at other times in the cycle may signal ovulation, hormonal changes, or underlying health conditions. Understanding the causes of pelvic pain, knowing when to seek help, and learning self-care strategies can…

A plain-language guide to abnormal vaginal bleeding

Abnormal vaginal bleeding refers to any unexpected or irregular bleeding from the vagina. It is sometimes confused with Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB), though this refers to abnormal bleeding specifically from the uterus. Understandably, any bleeding that is not normal for you might cause you to worry – but it doesn’t necessarily mean that something is…

Sex and your pelvic floor: What you need to know

The pelvic floor (sometimes known as the pelvic diaphragm) is a structure of muscles, ligaments and fascia, which play a part in supporting your pelvic organs (like your bladder and uterus), sexual function, and continence. In this article, we will explore sex and your pelvic floor, including vaginismus, a condition where the pelvic floor muscles…

What to do if you’ve just found out you’re pregnant but don’t want to be

If you have just found out that you’re pregnant, but don’t want to be, you may be experiencing feelings of panic, fear or confusion. Some women may even feel shame, particularly those in certain cultures where abortion is seen as a taboo subject. However, it’s important to know that you are not alone – 21…

Do you have unexplained vaginal bleeding?

Have you experienced unexplained vaginal bleeding, also referred to as irregular bleeding or ‘spotting’? It’s often nothing to be concerned about. However, you should always take note of changes in your cycle, and flag with your doctor or gynaecologist any vaginal bleeding that’s unusual for you, as there is a small chance that it can…

Why is the UK women’s health gap so large?

In an ideal world, every individual would receive the same quality of healthcare. In reality, that’s not always the case – even in the UK. Here, we have a significant “women’s health gap” (also called the “gender health gap”). This refers to the gap between the level of care received by female and male patients,…

Let’s talk all things SEX (and making it more comfortable)

Sex is meant to be a pleasurable and intimate experience, but for some people, it can be uncomfortable or even painful. If you have been Googling, “Why does it hurt when I have sex?”, you are not alone; around 7.5% of sexually active British women have reported painful intercourse for three or more months in…