According to Endometriosis.org, 1 in 10 women have endometriosis, and 176 million people worldwide are affected by the disruptive condition. It is a serious but deeply neglected public health issue. In fact, according to a National Institute of Child Health and Human Development-led study published in 2011, 11 percent of a group of women who had not been diagnosed with endometriosis actually had the disorder. If the finding applies to all women in the United States, the number of American women with endometriosis could exceed previous estimates of five million. Some studies even show that their experiences are often labeled incorrectly as a mental health issue or another physical issue, leading to patients experiencing medical gaslighting and exhausting and painful searches for doctors who will actually listen to them.
Celebrities aren’t excluded from this condition or even the pervasive issues in accessing adequate care. But, recently, as more and more people become aware of the condition’s existence and different treatment options out there, several famous faces have started speaking out about their struggles. Like with so many invisible illnesses, more advocates standing up and sharing their stories can only lead to a world where more patients are heard and supported.
A version of this story was published June 2017.
]]>Over the past few years, as the anti-abortion movement gained traction, a few of Hollywood’s biggest stars have made their personal lives political and drawn attention to the issue of abortion. That’s huge, because stars being vocal about their own abortion stories is invaluable in normalizing the experience and lifting the stigma that surrounds it. After all, when people have the ability to choose when and if they want to grow their families, they have a better chance of accomplishing what they want to do and living the lives they want. And seeing high-profile people share their own reproductive health choices (and the positive aftermath of having that access), it’s an overwhelming reminder that we pretty much all know and love someone who has had an abortion.
Ahead — from Busy Phillips to Nicki Minaj, Ashley Judd to Stevie Knicks — here are some of the real celebrities (who we totally love) who are changing the conversation, and helping to end the stigma, surrounding abortion.
A version of this story was published December 2020.
]]>We all know there are certain objects that must go in there. There’s no way around it. We have periods, and we want to protect ourselves during sex, and there are products we use in both of those scenarios for reasons of health, comfort, and pleasure. But when these objects become stuck and we aren’t able to remove them on our own, it can be incredibly scary. That’s why SheKnows spoke with a few experts who can tell you exactly what to do (and what not to do) if this happens to you.
Don’t worry — it’s not going anywhere
Dr. Laura Hagopian is an emergency room physician who has seen her share of vaginal foreign bodies. First, she wants to assure you the object can’t get very far and says, “The vagina ends at the cervix (bottom of the uterus), so foreign bodies generally have nowhere to go but stay in the vaginal canal.” So, don’t worry — it can’t make its way through your body never to be found again. It will come out one way or another.
Hagopian says she usually sees women who come in because a condom has come off during intercourse and the patient can’t remove it. But she’s also seen small children who have put toys in their vagina or women who have inserted garlic cloves to try and fight off an infection.
“I’ve also seen patients who have multiple tampons in their vaginas,” she says. “Sometimes, they forget to take them out and add more in.”
Should I try to get it out on my own?
Dr. Jennifer Wilder, who specializes in women’s health, says if you get something such as a tampon or condom stuck, you can safely try to get it out on your own.
“Squatting often helps, but do not insert any object into the vagina to try to retrieve it. It can do more harm than good. You can end up injuring yourself and/or causing an infection,” she adds.
What’s OK to put in your vagina — and what isn’t?
Dr. Hagopian advises that you should never put anything in your vagina that isn’t supposed to be there, such as fruits, vegetables, and sharp or fragile objects. And yes, we know that using food items as homemade sex toys can be fun, but it’s worth keeping in mind that this is not technically recommended by doctors and carries risk of infection or injury. If this is something you choose to experiment with, make sure to “clean thoroughly, check for sharp edges or nubs, and use a condom to cover any part that goes inside your body,” sex coach Jenna Switzer told SheKnows in a previous interview.
Fingers, penises, sex toys, tampons or “medications that are given intravaginally,” like creams or suppositories, are OK to enter your vagina, Dr. Hagiopan says. Sex toys designed for intravaginal use, like dildos and some vibrators, are also OK as long as they’re made from a non-porous material like silicone, body-safe metal alloys like titanium, aluminum blends, stainless steel, or glass. Cleaning your sex toys after use is also a must.
You should also know vaginal foreign bodies — even the safe ones, like sex toys, tampons, and menstrual cups — should never stay inside you longer than they have to, as they can cause infection, irritation and vaginal odor.
When should I see a doctor?
It’s a good idea to head to the doctor if you’re not able to get the object out on your own. You should also consult a doctor if the object is big or broken, Dr. Hagopian says, because it could break further and make the situation worse. Let the experts handle it instead.
We know it’s not the most comfortable conversation to have with your MD, but Dr. Wilder and Dr. Hagopian want you to remember these doctors have seen it all and your doctor’s office is a no-shame zone! There is no need to delay a visit because you are embarrassed. Your health is much more important than your pride (not that the latter should be bruised by getting help!) — and medical professionals will not judge you or ask too many questions. They will be able to remove it and give you any additional care you need without judgment.
A version of this story was published November 2017.
Before you go, check out 100 of these (totally vagina-safe) toys that you can put around, in and near your vulva:
According to The Preeclampsia Foundation, this hypertensive disorder, which usually occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy, affects five to eight percent of all births in the United States, or 1 in 12 pregnancies, a rate that has risen by 25 percent in the last two decades. Most women with preeclampsia deliver healthy babies and fully recover. Still, for Black women, the rate is 60 percent higher than that of White women, and they are three times more likely to develop severe preeclampsia due to a higher incidence of inequities in access to prenatal and health care, social inequities, and chronic stressors that affect health and well-being.
For years, doctors adopted a “wait and see” approach when diagnosing preeclampsia, with elevated blood pressure and protein in the urine as indicators. The challenge with this antiquated approach is that once symptoms develop, the condition can progress swiftly, necessitating prompt action. “Preeclampsia can lead to seizure, stroke, organ failure, hemorrhage, and even death to both the mother and her baby before, during, or after birth,” says Dr. Dallas Reed, MD, FACMG, FACOG, a practicing OB-GYN and geneticist. “Survivors also face a 4x increased risk of heart failure and a 2x increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and death because of cardiovascular disease across their lifetime.”
Many factors influence how preeclampsia is managed, including the gestational age and health of the baby, the overall health and age of the mother, and a thorough assessment of the disease’s progression. To achieve this, doctors monitor blood pressure and evaluate laboratory test results that reflect the condition of the mother’s kidneys, liver, or her blood’s ability to clot. Other tests assess how well the fetus is growing and whether they appear to be in danger. If the pregnancy is less than 37 weeks, the doctor typically aims to prolong the pregnancy; however, if it is 37 weeks or later, the provider will often choose to deliver the baby.
Thankfully, there is now a first-of-its-kind innovation available to expectant mothers that predicts the risk for preeclampsia months before symptoms occur. The Encompass blood test, developed by Mirvie, provides a tailored action plan that includes a responsive virtual assistant and individualized support to give expectant women and their providers the tools to reduce preeclampsia risks. “Over the past decade, Mirvie has combined technological innovation with rigorous clinical evidence to deliver biological-data-driven approaches that usher in the era of predictive and preventive prenatal care,” said Maneesh Jain, CEO and Co-Founder of Mirvie, in a press release last month. “We’re thrilled that we can now help families with our work.”
The Encompass test for preeclampsia analyzes cell-free RNA measurements to evaluate placental health and the biology of the developing pregnancy to predict if the pregnancy is at risk for preeclampsia. While developing Encompass, Mirvie examined the molecular health of nearly 11,000 pregnancies across the U.S., and the test classified as “high risk” 90 percent of pregnancies that later developed preterm preeclampsia.
“Encompass is a paradigm shift based on an increased understanding of the underlying biology of pregnancy,” Dr. Thomas McElrath, Vice President of Clinical Development at Mirvie and a practicing maternal-fetal medicine physician at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, said in the press release. “Pregnant women with a high-risk result can have conversations with their care teams about interventions to mitigate risk, including additional monitoring, aspirin adherence, monitoring blood pressure at home, and more.”
The Encompass Test was launched across the U.S. with a direct-to-consumer purchase process. Working with physician offices, the e-commerce experience helps pregnant women age 35 or older (at time of delivery) buy the test from encompasstest.com. A licensed telehealth provider will review and approve the order, collect a blood sample through an at-home visit between 18-22 weeks of gestational age, and the results will be returned within 10-14 days to the mom and her provider care team, along with a preventive action plan.
And Encompass is just the latest breakthrough in the fight against the effects of preeclampsi. In 2023, researchers from Brown and Western Universities were able to identify the protein, cis P-tau, called a “crucial culprit and biomarker” for the preeclampsia. As it turns out, cis P-tau is also associated with neurological diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and stroke. Potential new treatments for preeclampsia are also on the horizon.
While the Encompass Test is 18 years too late for me, it is welcome news in the fight for better prenatal care for millions of expectant women, especially women of color who are at higher risk for severe complications.
Before you go, shop our favorite natural cold products for kids:
]]>I was on birth control pills for around 14 years. When I finally tossed my last pack, I was surprised to learn just how irregular my cycles are. At first, I thought it was the effects of being on hormonal birth control for so long, but after being prescription-free for two years, I still deal with the frustrations of an irregular cycle.
Since going off birth control, I have become completely obsessed with wellness tech for women’s health to help me better understand my cycle. This includes the coveted Oura Ring, which I wear (and sleep with) daily. I love the Oura Ring because it makes tracking my cycle based on my basal body temperature a total breeze — all I have to do is sync it with the Natural Cycles app, and it tells me where I am in my cycle and can predict my fertility window and period.
Then I had the opportunity to test the Mira Hormone Monitor and realized that, as much as the Oura Ring and Natural Cycles combination is effective at predicting my period (it was almost always pretty accurate), my irregular cycle throws off the technology, making it harder to predict which day I actually ovulate.
Mira Fertility Tracker Review
The Mira Hormone Monitor is a small, egg-shaped device that is essentially like having a lab in the palm of your hand. It connects to the Mira app, where you can load data and share additional insights (including basal body temperature, which I still pull from my Oura Ring and Natural Cycles app) and get a good idea of what is going on internally throughout your cycle — no matter how long or short they might be — to know precisely when you’re ovulating.
“It doesn’t just give you a yes/no answer about ovulation — it quantitatively tracks key reproductive hormones, luteinizing hormone (LH), E3G (the main metabolite of estrogen), PdG (the main metabolite progesterone), and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), using urine samples, offering a much more nuanced and accurate view of your cycle,” says Rosemary MacKenzie, a clinical manager and research lead at Mira.
How Does Mira Work?
To test your hormones, you pee into a small silicone cup that is included with the device, then dip a test wand into the urine for 20 seconds (the app conveniently counts down for you), then you insert the wand into the device, and it works its magic to analyze the hormone levels and give you an accurate view of where everything is at. Once the wand is analyzed, the app doesn’t just store the insights — it uses AI to interpret the details in context, taking cycle history, hormone trends, and irregularities into account to generate personalized insights and predictions, says MacKenzie. The app also tells you when to test based on the data, so you don’t have to track and set reminders for yourself.
All of this sounds like a hassle — and a lot more work than just sleeping with a wellness tracker and syncing its data to a birth control app — but it’s actually not as annoying as it seems. I have taken my device with me on multiple trips, including on a tour with my musician husband, where I was literally operating a lab from the teeny tiny tour bus bathroom (while the bus was moving, no less). Its small design and simple process made it so easy to keep up with my cycle insights even as I bopped from city to city.
Verdict
Having a clear idea of my fertility window and ovulation window has been a total game-changer for me, since having an irregular cycle can make getting pregnant more difficult. “An irregular cycle often indicates that ovulation is not occurring regularly or at all, which makes it harder to predict the fertile window,” says Anate A. Brauer, M.D., FACOG, of RMA of New York, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist with extensive experience in treating all medical and surgical aspects of infertility.
She notes that most people with irregular cycles are still able to conceive, but without consistent ovulation, the chances of conception in a given cycle are lower. By understanding my cycle on a lab level, trying to get pregnant has felt less and less like a shot in the dark and given me the confidence boost I have needed in my fertility journey.
Pros:
More precise cycle tracking
Compact size that you can easily travel with
Comes with everything you need to get started
User-friendly app
FSA and HSA eligible
Cons:
High price tag (and the refill wands are also pricey)
For many of us, spring and summer present an opportunity to soak in as much sunshine as possible. But if you’re pregnant, doctors say you should try to stay out of the direct sun as much as possible, particularly in the first trimester, as too much sun can decrease the amount of the crucial pregnancy nutrient folic acid, according to Northwestern Medicine.
But the good news is you don’t have to give up your sunkissed glow just because you’re expecting. In addition to applying a great pregnancy-safe SPF from head to toe every day, make a pregnancy-safe self-tanner or tinted moisturizer your go-to product for getting bronzy, no sun required. Spoiler alert: not all self-tanners are safe to use during pregnancy, though. We asked a dermatologist and an OB/GYN to give us some pointers.
Best (and Safest) Self Tanners for Pregnancy, at a Glance
Best Foam: b.tan Love at First Tan, $9 (originally $10
Best Mousse: Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Sunless Tanning Moisturizer + Bronzer, $13 (originally $15)
Best Body Lotion: Alba Botanica Sunless Tanner, $10 (originally $18)
Best Serum: Whind Marrakech Sun Instant Glow Tanning Water, $35
Best Face Moisturizer: Coola Organic Sunless Tan Anti-Aging Daily Moisturizer, $48
Best Towelette: Tan Towel Self Tan Towelette, $23 (originally $29)
Best for a Dark Tan: Beauty By Earth Self Tanner Tanning Lotion, $36 (originally $42)
Best Buildable: Vita Liberata Fabulous Gradual Tanning Lotion, $20
Best Skin-Tone Corrector: St. Tropez Tan Tonic Glow Drops, $32 (originally $42)
Best Free Radical Fighter: Skinerals Californium Sunless Tanning Mousse, $30
Most Popular: Lux Unfiltered N°32 Hydrating Gradual Self Tanning Lotion, $38
Best Gradual: Tan Luxe The Gradual Illuminating Tanning Lotion, $34
Is Self-Tanner Safe During Pregnancy?
Many self-tanners are safe to use during pregnancy, but not all. Two factors will determine whether a self-tanner passes the pregnancy test: its packaging and the ingredients on the label. “I do not recommend using any aerosol versions of self-tanners,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian to SheKnows. “Stick to the lotions, creams and drops. Aerosolized versions can leave droplets of these ingredients in the air that are irritating and potentially toxic to lung tissue.”
It’s important to read the ingredients on the label. The active ingredient in most sunless tanning products that enhances the pigment by dying the surface layer of the skin is dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, which, thankfully, is minimally toxic. “The concentration of this active ingredient ranges depending on the product,” says Nazarian. “Typically, this ingredient can range from between 1 to 15 percent in self tanners, and thankfully studies have been done that have shown that systemic absorption of this ingredient is minimal. It stains the top layers of skin cells, and doesn’t have significant penetration into deeper layers of skin or [the bloodstream].”
“While there are no studies to prove the safety of DHA in pregnancy, DHA has been used in cosmetics since the 1960s with no reported problems,” confirms Dr. Kelly Culwell, MD, Board Certified OB/GYN, also known as ‘Dr. Lady Doctor.’ “When used topically (on the skin), minimal DHA is absorbed and likely even less (if any) could make it through the placenta.” Of course, it’s totally up to you how safe you want to play it: If you’re still uncomfy with the idea of using products with DHA, skip it.
What Ingredients to Avoid in Self-Tanner When Pregnant, According to Experts
So what should you avoid in a pregnancy-safe self-tanner? It’s okay if the product contains DHA, but it is smart to look for plant-based or organic products, because those should have fewer chemical additives — you should always try to avoid chemicals including parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde during pregnancy to cut back on your risk of birth defects or preterm birth. Just make sure the label says “paraben-free” or “pregnancy-safe” before you buy a self-tanner. And the shorter the list of ingredients, the better!
“Other ingredients to avoid in pregnancy include formaldehyde and oxybenzone, which either don’t have enough information to prove that they’re safe, or have some evidence to suggest they are harmful during pregnancy (hormones disrupters),” says Dr. Nazarian.
Taking all of that into consideration, you’re left with have plenty of options for sunless tanners that are pregnancy-safe: Some lather on like a lotion, while others can be applied in a thicker foam or drops on the skin. Remember to exfoliate and moisturize before using any self-tanner to ensure even coverage.
Check out our top picks below. Happy bronzing!
MOST POPULAR
Lux Unfiltered N°32 Hydrating Gradual Self Tanning Lotion
Lux Unfiltered was co-founded by Sivan Ayla, a mother of two. The self-tanner produces the most natural and bronze tan I’ve ever used! I love that it’s so simple to use, whether you’re pregnant or not. If you are an expecting mama, always check with your doctor before introducing new products, but the formula is gentle and not packed with harmful ingredients. Instead, there is shea butter, avocado oil, and squalane to hydrate and support the skin’s moisture barrier. The gradual self-tanner also includes a light scene that’s floral and earthy. It boasts notes of rose water, palmarosa, cedar, and fresh vanilla.
Product type: Lotion
Key ingredients:
Shea butter
Avocado oil
Squalane
Fragrance: Rose water, palmarosa, cedar, and fresh vanilla
Pros:
Developed by a mom
Easy to apply
Natural finish
Vegan
Cons:
Lightly scented
Some say it’s hard to remove
BEST FOAM
b.tan Love At First Tan
Amazon’s number-one best-selling self-tanner is this 100 percent vegan formulation cutely called Love at First Tan. It’s suitable for all skin types and develops into a medium-to-dark tan with no orange tones. It’s even cruelty-free. For best results, let this tanner soak in for four hours or more. ” I started using it when I was pregnant and never stopped. It spreads easily. Color develops right away and it looks like a real tan. I get a lot of compliments with this brand,” wrote a fan.
Product type: Foam
Key ingredients: Water
Fragrance: None
Pros:
Vegan
Cruelty-free
No fake tan smell
Doesn’t streak
Produces a dark tan
Cons:
Some say it fades quickly
Some did not feel the tan was dark enough
Some say it has a weird smell
BEST MOUSSE
Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Sunless Tanning Moisturizer + Bronzer
This Jergens self-tanner is infused with all-natural emollients like vitamin E and coconut oil to nourish your skin as it bronzes it. And instead of smelling like chemicals, it smells like the beach. “Fav tanning lotion ever. Goes on like lotion, smells good, has a beautiful dark color and stays for a couple days,” one shopper wrote.
Product type: Mousse
Key ingredients:
Water
Vitamin E
Coconut oil
DHA
Fragrance: Coconut
Pros:
Paraben-free
Cruelty-free
No streaking
Not sticky
Cons:
Some say it has too much of an orange hue
Some don’t like the smell
BEST BODY LOTION
Alba Botanica Sunless Tanner
This self-tanner is “powered by botanicals” so you know it’s pregnancy-safe. As you’d expect, it has no parabens, pthalates or synthetic fragrances — just plant-derived ingredients designed to infuse your skin with moisture and hydration while making you look like you baked in the sun. Apply this one for three hours for best results. One shopper called it “the best self tanner I have EVER used, including when I got professional spray tans.”
Product type: Lotion
Key ingredients:
Shea butter
Sweet almond oil
Safflower oil
DHA
Fragrance: Tropical
Pros:
Plant-based
Paraben-, sulfate- and phthalate-free
Synthetic fragrance-free
Cruelty-free
Dye-free
Cons:
Some say they didn’t tan deeply enough
Some say it doesn’t last long enough
BEST FOR A DARK TAN
Beauty By Earth Self Tanner Lotion
Beauty By Earth notes right on the packaging that this self-tanner is pregnancy safe, vegan, and suitable for sensitive skin. It also is great for getting even coverage for stretch marks, if there are any that you choose to cover up, and is made with plant-based ingredients so you don’t have to worry.
Product type: Lotion
Key ingredients:
DHA
Shea butter
Witch Hazel
Coconut oil
Aloe
Fragrance: Coconut
Pros:
Vegan
Hydrating and moisturizing
Gentle on sensitive skin
Pleasant smell
No orange tone
Cons:
Some say the smell is too strong
Some say it’s too dark for fair skin
BEST SERUM
Whind Marrakech Sun Instant Glow Tanning Water
Like the idea of tanning drops better to get a more gradual tan? Whind’s “tinting water” contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin while you get that glow. It’s made from erythrulose, a plant-based DHA alternative that produces color on the skin by reacting to skin proteins. Note: You may need to apply a few layers to match or deepen your skin tone.
Product type: Serum
Key ingredients:
Erythrulose (alternative to DHA)
Hyaluronic Acid
Glycerin
Fragrance: Sweet
Pros:
Lightweight
Buildable
Vegan
Cruelty-free
Cons:
Pricey
Some say the glow doesn’t last long
BEST FACE MOISTURIZER
Coola Organic Sunless Tan Anti-Aging Daily Moisturizer
If you like products that do double duty, this is the one for you. A daily moisturizer and sunless tanner in one, Coola Organic’s self-tanner has anti-aging properties built-in. It’s completely clean and organic and even uses DHA derived from beets.
Key ingredients:
DHA
Hyaluronic Acid
Squalane
Aloe Vera
Green Tea Extract
Fragrance: Pina colada
Pros:
Vegan and clean
Cruelty-free
Reef-safe
Deeply moisturizing
Multi-tasking
Anti-aging
Sustainable packaging
Cons:
Pricey
Some say it made them break out
Some did not like the smell
BEST TOWELETTE
Tan Towel Self Tan Towelette
Tan Towel towelettes give you the opportunity to self-tan on tho. Each individually wrapped wipe is infused with paraben-free, dye-free liquid that takes two to four hours to show up and lasts a full week. Best of all, Tan Towel exfoliates, moisturizes and tans your skin all at once, so pop one or two of these in your purse and no one will know you spent all day under your umbrella at the beach!
Product type: Towelette
Key ingredients:
Water
DHA
Aloe Vera
Pro-Vitamin B5
Pentavitin
Fragrance: Citrus
Pros:
Paraben-free
Dye-free
Streak-free
Fast-acting
Portable
Moisturizes and exfoliates
Cons:
Some don’t like the smell
Some find towelettes hard to apply
Some say it does streak
BEST SKIN-TONE CORRECTOR
St. Tropez Tan Tonic Glow Drops
If you’re looking exclusive for a face a bronzer, then look to this potent self-tanning serum by St. Tropez. The vegan formula gently but powerfully tans your skin while nourishing ingredients keep your complexion hydrated and happy. It even contains niacinamide, which helps even your skin tone and your overall glow.
Product type: Serum
Key ingredients:
Niacinamide
Vitamin E
Echinacea
Hyaluronic Acid
Fragrance: Floral
Pros:
Vegan
Hydrating
Anti-aging properties
Recyclable packaging
Cons:
Pricey
Some don’t like the smell
Some say they didn’t tan dark enough
BEST FREE RADICAL FIGHTER
Skinerals Californium Sunless Tanning Mousse
This Skinerals self-tanner has a different texture: a fluffy mousse that can help even the skin tone, thanks to antioxidant-packed ingredients like acai berry and fig extract. You can apply the mousse to both your face and body. It’s best to lather it on at night and then shower in the morning to give it plenty of time to set (yet, it won’t transfer on your pajamas or sheets).
Product type: Mousse
Key ingredients:
Water
DHA
Lavender oil
Orange peel oil
Vanilla bean extract
Shea butter
Fragrance: Fruity
Pros:
Vegan
Cruelty-free
Good for all skin types
Streak-free
Fast-acting and long-lasting
Cons:
Some don’t like the smell
Some say the results are too subtle
Vita Liberata Fabulous Gradual Tanning Lotion
Designed for all skin tones, Vita Liberata’s Gradual Tanning Lotion is buildable on your face or body and can be used daily, as it tans you gradually. The lotion itself is not tinted, so it won’t stain your clothes or bedding (always a win with a tanning product!). Its ingredients include skin soothing shea butter, hyaluronic acid, cucumber extract, and aloe vera for a smooth application and hydrated skin.
Product type: Lotion
Key ingredients:
DHA
Shea butter
Hyaluronic acid
Cucumber extract
Aloe vera
Fragrance: Cocoa butter
Pros:
Tans gradually
Moisturizing
Hydrating
Cons:
Some say it feels sticky
Some say the results are too subtle
Bali Body Gradual Tanning Butter
This tanning butter melts right into your skin! Even though it has a thicker consistency, shoppers love how moisturizing it feels once you apply it. The tanning butter includes low-level tanning actives to create a gradual tan that lasts. Shoppers praise the subtle gold shimmer it leaves behind.
Product type: Lotion
Key ingredients:
Niacinamide
Hyaluronic acid
Vitamin E
Shea Butter
Cocoa butter
Fragrance: Coconut
Pros:
Tans gradually
Hydrating
Cons:
Smaller size
Tan Luxe The Gradual Illuminating Tanning Lotion
When you’re looking to build a natural and beautiful tan without worrying about it staining your clothes, reach for the Tan-Luxe The Gradual Illuminating Tanning Lotion. It goes on streak-free and is perfect for beginners who are too nervous to self-tan at home. The tanner comes in one shade, which adapts to all skin tones! Shoppers also praise the light and airy citrus scent that lingers on the skin all day. For the best results, apply the lotion every other day to maintain your glow.
Product type: Lotion
Key ingredients:
Aloe vera
Raspberry seed oil
Cellutone complex
Fragrance: Light citrusy scent
Pros:
Tans gradually
No orange streaks
Good for pale skin
Cons:
Need to thoroughly exfoliate before applying
Experts in This Article
Dr. Rachel Nazarian: New York-based board-certified dermatologist
Dr. Kelly Culwell, MD: Board Certified OB/GYN, also known as ‘Dr. Lady Doctor’
“I regularly speak with patients who are nervous to talk about sex and birth control,” Dr. Kyle Graham, board-certified OBGYN and medical director at Pediatrix Medical Group in San Jose, CA, tells SheKnows. For one thing, many patients find the topic embarrassing, he explains. There might also be “cultural reasons where sex and birth control are something not to be discussed,” he adds. And with sex specifically, it’s common to believe that no one else is experiencing the same problem you are, which makes it even harder to bring up — “when in reality,” Dr. Graham says, “their question/concern is one that most people are also asking their doctor.”
Dr. Orchideh Alexander, an OB/GYN at Atlantic Health System, notes that sexual health topics like birth control are simply “deeply personal and sensitive,” and thus hard to bring up. Other people, she adds, “are influenced by the lingering stigma surrounding sexual health in our society.”
How To Talk To Your OB/GYN About Sexual Health
The good news for us patients is that a good doctor can help you move past any awkwardness or stigma. “When a patient is nervous to talk about these topics, I start by reassuring them that they are not alone — many people share the same feelings, and it’s completely normal,” Dr. Alexander explains. According to Dr. Graham, your doctor should be factual and open with you as the patient, and they should make sure that you’re comfortable having anyone else in the room with you (like a partner or family members). You should also be reassured that nothing you say in that room will be “judged, laughed at or brushed aside,” he adds.
You should expect your doctor to ask “open-ended questions about their hopes and concerns around sexual health and family planning,” Dr. Alexander adds. “From there, we work together to create a personalized plan, moving at a pace that feels right for them. I always remind patients that there’s no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to have these discussions — what matters most is that they feel heard and respected.”
Talking To Your OB/GYN About IUDs
Whether you’re a mom looking to wait a bit (or longer than a bit) in between kids or looking into contraceptive options for your teen or young adult, birth control is always a major topic at the OB/GYN. IUDs in particular are the subject of a lot of conversations — and misconceptions.
Both doctors say IUDs are an excellent birth control option. “I have a very positive perception of IUDs and try to convey my positivity to the patient,” Dr. Graham explains, and Dr. Alexander agrees: “I absolutely love IUDs and often share that excitement with my patients.”
Dr. Graham also specifically works to “dispel myths patients have heard from social media or friends” about IUDs — like that they’re only for women who have already had children (nope!) or that they cause infertility (also no). And while IUD insertion can range from uncomfortable to very painful for some people, you should feel empowered to talk to your doctor about pain relief options and seek another provider if you don’t feel comfortable with what they can offer.
When you ask about getting an IUD, your doctor should also give you a general overview of what they are: a small device that is placed in your uterus to prevent pregnancy. “I explain that IUDs are a type of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), meaning that after a single office visit to place the device, patients typically don’t have to do anything for contraception for several years — anywhere from 3 to 10 years, depending on the type of IUD,” Dr. Alexander explains. “It’s an extremely low-maintenance and effective option, and many of my patients end up loving their IUDs.”
What Are the Different Types of IUDs?
Your doctor will also explain the different kinds of IUDs, specifically the difference between the hormonal (levonorgestrel) IUD and the non-hormonal copper IUD, so you can decide which is right for you.
“The hormonal IUD releases a small, steady amount of progesterone over 3 to 8 years, depending on the specific model,” explains Dr. Alexander. Some of the benefits? The hormonal IUD often leads to lighter periods (or no periods at all!) and less cramping; it’s actually considered a treatment option to address heavy or painful periods, Dr. Alexander says.
The copper IUD, meanwhile, is a good option if you’re looking for something hormone-free. It’s also good for 10 years (!), although Dr. Alexander notes that this option can sometimes lead to heavier, more painful periods.
What’s the Right IUD for You?
When you’re deciding the right IUD, it’s important to think about your birth control priorities. You’ll want to think about whether you want a hormonal or non-hormonal option, for starters, and what your menstrual cycle is currently like. “I ask about things like how important it is to them to avoid hormones, whether they’re looking for lighter periods, and how long they want protection,” Dr. Alexander says. Your doctor will also ask about your medical history to see if one option is better for you than another, Dr. Graham says.
The decision to get an IUD or not, and what kind of IUD you get, is up to you and your preferences. Your doctor is just there to guide you through it, answer your questions, and support you — and if you don’t feel supported, again, it’s a good idea to seek out other providers if you can. “Ultimately, it’s a collaborative decision,” Dr. Alexander says. “I make sure patients feel fully informed and empowered to choose what works best for them.”
Before you go, read up on these yoga poses to avoid during your period:
]]>To help guide you before your appointment, we break down the most common types of birth control and the questions you should ask yourself before making a choice. Whether you’re exploring birth control for the first time or considering switching methods, understanding your options (and knowing when to seek professional advice) can empower you to make informed, confident decisions.
Hormonal vs. non-hormonal options
Birth control options include hormonal methods like pills, patches, rings, and injections, as well as non-hormonal options like IUDs and condoms. Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods like IUDs and implants offer long-term protection and can be a good option when a patient has a true contraindication to a hormonal option, according to Dr. Maria Sophocles, an OB/GYN based in New Jersey. She adds, “Hormonal options are safe for nearly every woman; non-hormonal options such as a non-hormonal copper IUD are not necessarily more ‘natural.’ Some hormonal options contain estrogen and progesterone while others contain only progestogens (types of progesterone), which are used in women with clot risk or who smoke as they do not increase risk of clots.”
Common birth control methods
Pill – according to Planned Parenthood, if you use it perfectly, the pill is 99% effective. But people aren’t perfect and it’s easy to forget or miss pills — so in reality the pill is about 93% effective. That means about 7 out of 100 pill users get pregnant each year. There are two kinds of birth control pills— combination pills (the most common type of birth control pill) and progestin-only pills.
Patch – The transdermal contraceptive patch is a safe and convenient birth control method that works really well if you always use it correctly. You wear the patch (and change it weekly) on certain parts of your body, and it releases hormones through your skin that prevent pregnancy. If used perfectly, the patch is 99% effective, but it’s actually closer to 93% effective as it can be easy to make a mistake.
Vaginal ring – With the vaginal ring, you wear a small, flexible ring inside your vagina, and it prevents pregnancy 24/7 by releasing hormones into your body. You put it in and take it out once a month. About 7 out of 100 ring users get pregnant each year. The birth control ring may cause negative side effects for some people, such as nausea, headaches, and sore breasts, but they usually go away after a few months.
IUD – IUD stands for intrauterine device (basically, a device inside your uterus). It’s a small piece of flexible plastic shaped like a T. It’s long-term, reversible, and one of the most effective birth control methods, with it being more than 99% effective (fewer than 1 out of 100 people who use an IUD will get pregnant each year). IUDs are so effective because there’s no chance of making a mistake. You can’t forget to take it (like the pill), or use it incorrectly (like condoms). And you’re protected from pregnancy 24/7 for 3 to 12 years, depending on which kind you get. Once your IUD is in place, you can keep it in until it expires or decide that you’re ready to try and get pregnant. Once it’s removed, an IUD doesn’t prevent you from getting pregnant right away.
Birth control shot – The birth control shot is an injection you get once every three months from a healthcare provider. It contains the hormone progestin, which stops you from getting pregnant by preventing ovulation. When used perfectly, the birth control shot is more than 99% effective, meaning less than 1 out of every 100 people who use it will get pregnant each year. However, in real life, the shot is about 96% effective due to people sometimes forgetting to get their shots on time. The most common side effects are changes in your periods, especially during the first year. These include bleeding, spotting, or not getting your period.
Birth control implant – The birth control implant is a tiny, thin rod about the size of a matchstick. The implant releases hormones into your body that prevent you from getting pregnant. A nurse or doctor inserts the implant into your arm and you’re protected from pregnancy for up to 5 years. Similar to an IUD, the implant is so effective (more than 99%) because it’s in your arm, and therefore there’s no chance of using it incorrectly or forgetting to take it altogether. If you decide you want to get pregnant, a nurse or doctor can take it out and you can get pregnant right away.
Factors to consider
Dr. Sophocles notes that two of the main questions to ask yourself when trying to decide a birth control is what can I stick with? Do I have any contraindications? For example, if you are a smoker than an estrogen containing pill is not right for you. Similarly, if you have trouble remembering to take a daily pill, then that method is also not right for you. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance/convenient option then an IUD or implant might be best for you. Those methods are also highly effective (over 99%).
However, as mentioned above, some people use birth control not just to prevent pregnancy, but to also address additional health concerns. Some IUDs can be used to help treat heavy menstrual bleeding whereas hormonal options such as the pill, can help regulate your period, reduce PMS symptoms, improve skin complexion, and help manage conditions such as endometriosis and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
Remember, the right choice is not about following trends or meeting others’ expectations; it’s about finding a method that reflects your unique needs and preferences, while ensuring your health and well-being come first. It’s best to talk to your healthcare provider as they are best equipped to help if you have questions or concerns.
]]>No one likes to be surprised by their period, but there’s something especially terrible about it when you’re a teen. It’s that familiar sinking feeling: realizing it in the middle of class, calculating how to make it to the bathroom as quickly as possible, trying to remember whether you still have a leftover pad in your backpack from last month, hoping above all that you don’t have to spend the rest of the school day bleeding through your jeans. Sorry to bring back any unpleasant memories, but we’ve all been there — and, probably, learned from the experience. The lessons? Make sure to keep your period kit stocked at all times, and start tracking that cycle — whether by hand or on a handy period-tracking app — so it doesn’t sneak up on you again.
Dr. Somi Javaid, a board-certified OB/GYN and founder of HerMD, says that anyone who menstruates should ideally be tracking their cycle. That’s because, during your menstrual years, “presence or absence or changes in your menstrual cycle can be another vital sign indicative of what’s going on with your general health,” she tells SheKnows. For teens, it’s especially important to get into the habit.
Why Should Teens Track Their Periods?
“For the first few years, as your hormones are maturing… cycles aren’t always predictable, and so that leaves teens unprepared,” Dr. Javaid explains. That might mean they’re caught without a period product while at school, at a sports game, or traveling. It might also mean that they’re confused when new PMS symptoms come on. “They already have unpredictable moods because of being a teenager,” Dr. Javaid points out. “Sometimes they’re not aware that they’re moody or angry or depressed… or they are very self-conscious about their [breakouts] or bloating… and it’s really due to PMS.” Knowing that these symptoms are actually due to their cycle can be reassuring.
Plus, picking up on their symptoms is the first step to treating or even preventing them, Dr. Javaid adds. “You can go talk to your provider about options to treat the PMS,” she explains. “Knowledge is power, but it also arms them with the capability, then, to go in and make an informed decision if they want treatment for some of their concerns,” whether that means grabbing some ibuprofen before a day they usually get cramps, or taking preemptive migraine medication if they’re a menstrual migraine sufferer.
How Teens Should Track Their Period
There’s no right medium for tracking a menstrual cycle, Dr. Javaid says — it’s whatever fits into your teen’s life the best. “Some people like old fashioned paper, and they that’s how they keep track of homework assignments and their social life,” she says. “Some people use their notes app. Some people love the period apps.”
When it comes to what your teen should be tracking, they should start with the first day of their period and make a note of what days they bleed. They should also record the heaviness of their cycle — so, how many pads or tampons they use, or how many times they emptied their menstrual cup. Then, your teen should note down any other symptoms, like pain, cramping, breakouts, GI symptoms (like bloating, nausea, or diarrhea), moodiness, anxiety or depression, or changes in sleep habits. It’s all worth making note of, Dr. Javaid says, “because we know your menstrual cycle doesn’t just affect bleeding.”
Are Period-Tracking Apps Safe for Teens?
Of course, period apps come with some concerns these days. Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, many users have worried about period-tracking apps sharing data about their health or their cycle, which could be used to determine when a pregnancy begins or ends. That raises major flags for people in abortion-restricting states, especially, whose cycle data could conceivably be used to prosecute them for seeking an abortion. “A big spotlight was placed on HIPAA concerns,” Dr. Javaid explains, referencing the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, a federal law that protects medical records and personal health information.
As Dr. Javaid points out, most period-tracking apps are not held to HIPAA standards — meaning, they’re not legally required to protect your health data the way doctors and health insurance companies are. That means that, yes, your teen’s menstrual data could be shared with a third party (meaning any other entity outside the app), if they record it in the app. Recent research has also found that some period apps mismanage health data, leaving it open to hacks or leaks, and many experts continue to recommend deleting period-tracking apps given the continued risks and uncertainty, especially if you live in an abortion-restricting state.
If privacy is a top concern, Dr. Javaid recommends opting for the old-fashioned pen and paper technique, or recording cycles in the phone’s built-in notes app. Other experts recommend the Apple Health app (for those with iPhones), which is “encrypted and inaccessible by default,” per Apple’s company policy. Dr. Javaid notes that some newer period-tracking apps also prioritize privacy and “either delete data as you enter it, or they don’t allow third-party tracking.” It’s ultimately a personal choice, and one that you should talk through with your teen and, if you can, a trusted doctor.
Best Period-Tracking Apps for Teens
If you and your teen do decide to opt for a period-tracking app, think about what they’re looking to get out of it. Are they looking for an app that’s ultra-private? One that can predict their cycle? One with a built-in community? Here are the period-tracking apps Dr. Javaid recommends for teens:
Euki: If you’re looking for an app that prioritizes privacy, Euki is a good choice. This period-tracking app gives you the option to delete all data — either at scheduled intervals or on the spot — and doesn’t permit third-party tracking, meaning the app won’t allow your teen’s menstrual data to be tracked by any other entity. Your teen also has the option to set a pin number for further protection. Besides its privacy features, Euki also offers the typical bells and whistles of a period-tracking app: a calendar, the ability to log symptoms, and resources to learn more about your cycle and health.
Clue: “Clue is a great period tracker recommended by a lot of MDs,” says Dr. Javaid, noting that users can easily track all their symptoms. With the free Clue Basic, your teen can tap into statistics about their cycle and check out cycle predictions; with the subscription-based Clue Plus, they get access to the app’s pattern analysis and content from medical experts to help them recognize patterns in their PMS and get their burning questions answered. If privacy is a concern, the German-based Clue team has also vowed not to share user data with the US government.
Magicgirl: A period tracker made specifically for teens (ages 12 and up), Magicgirl is unique because it offers a built-in community, where teens can talk to other teens about their cycles or symptoms. “I think community is really huge and something people are asking for,” Dr. Javaid notes. The app also features kid-friendly educational videos and tips for young menstruators.
Flo: The most popular period-tracking app, Flo is all about providing as much info as possible. The more data your teen puts in the more “insights and tips [it gives you] as reward,” explains Dr. Javaid, who highlighted Flo’s period predictor. Flo is also encrypted and offers an anonymous mode. “We will never sell your data,” the app says on its site, “but no one (not even us) can identify you when you use Anonymous Mode.”
Whatever app or method they choose, period tracking is a great way for teens to get to know their cycle and their bodies. That knowledge becomes power, because the more they know about their cycle’s patterns and tendencies, the more quickly they’ll realize when things seem off — and get help when they need it.
“[Tracking your period] can actually help us prevent pain,” Dr. Javaid points out. “[You can] prevent the migraine, prevent the cramping, because if you know when it’s coming, you can get the medications on board, if you want to make that intervention.” And preventing the symptoms, or noticing when they’re out of the ordinary, affects your teen’s life way beyond the few days a month they have their period. “It’s not just about the period,” Dr. Javaid says. “It’s about so much more. It’s about overall health.”
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]]>But Dewan is also honest about the not-so-adorable parts of motherhood. For example: mastitis. In a set of Instagram photos celebrating her return to The Rookie after maternity leave — including multiple sweet pictures of mom and baby! — Dewan included a selfie showing her reclining on a bed with what look like raw potato slices on her chest. Some fans were left confused. “Wait what do the potatoes do?” one person commented. “Are the soothing or helping with maybe stretch marks or just skin stuff in general?”
Turns out, raw potatoes may help with symptoms of mastitis, which is swelling and redness of the breast tissue, sometimes involving an infection, according to Mayo Clinic. “Mastitis can be triggered by clogged (plugged) milk ducts and engorgement,” Dr. Jessica Madden of Aeroflow Breastpumps, a board-certified pediatrician and neonatologist, and an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), tells SheKnows. “Cracked nipples can also lead to mastitis by allowing bacteria to enter into the breast tissue.”
People who are breastfeeding are most likely to get mastitis, which can include symptoms like breast tenderness or warmth, breast swelling, breast lumps, a burning feeling or pain while breastfeeding, and even a fever. Per the Cleveland Clinic, mastitis affects up to 10 percent of breastfeeding people in the US.
Dewan dealt with mastitis for the first time while pregnant with Rhiannon, she told Us Weekly back in September — and she tried everything to find relief. “Anything someone DMed me, I was like, ‘I’m gonna try that,'” she explained, “because it was so miserable. It was so awful.”
And an Instagram post from August showed Dewan wasn’t exaggerating about all the remedies she tried, sourced from a supportive network of fellow moms. In addition to applying “thinly sliced potatoes after feeds,” she also used hot Epsom salt baths “to help with the shaking,” and put castor oil on her breasts with a warm compress on top. She also took probiotics, vitamins C and E, ibuprofen, and antibiotics.
In the post, Dewan said the potatoes eased her inflammation — so is it true? Well, depends who you ask. According to a 2016 report in the IOSR Journal of Nursing and Health Science, raw potatoes can help with pain, swelling, and redness if applied within the first 24 hours of noticing symptoms. (Per the authors, you should start with six to eight washed, raw potatoes and soak them in room temperature water before applying a few to your breasts. The slices should be replaced every 15 to 20 minutes.)
However, Dr. Madden isn’t convinced. “Although there is some scientific evidence that chemical components in potatoes may promote wound healing, mastitis occurs in the deeper tissues of the breast where components of topical potato slices will not reach,” she explains. In fact, in their most recent guidelines, the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine actually recommends against applying topical products to the breast when treating mastitis. “While I don’t think that applying raw potatoes to inflamed breasts is harmful,” Dr. Madden says, “I suspect that in most cases it will not help.”
Instead, Dr. Madden recommends ibuprofen, ice or cold packs, managing breast milk oversupply, wearing a supportive and well-fitting bra, and antibiotics in some cases. It can also help to continue feeding or pumping from the affected breast, but “minimizing pumping and efforts to full empty the affected breast after feeding,” she adds.
As for Dewan, she reported in the Us Weekly interview that she thinks the potato trick worked — but not on its own. “It was kind of in combination with also antibiotics, which really worked,” she explained. “You gotta have the natural and the actual medicine work together.” Sounds like this mom of three found the combination of strategies that worked for her. If you can relate to the mastitis struggle, make sure to talk treatment options with your doctor to relieve your symptoms.
Before you go, shop these essentials for bed-resting moms-to-be:
