Have you ever walked down the personal care aisle and noticed that a pack of “feminine” razors in a bright pink wrapper costs significantly more than the “men’s” blue razors right next to them? This isn’t just a coincidence, it’s a global phenomenon known as the Pink Tax, and in South Africa, it is hitting…
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the rows of boxes and different names at the clinic, you’re not alone. Choosing a contraceptive isn’t always quick and simple. It’s not just about “not getting pregnant” it’s about finding a method that respects your body’s rhythm and slides into your daily routine without causing stress. Whether you…
What is Vaginismus ? Vaginismus occurs when the muscles surrounding the vagina suddenly tighten up in an automatic reaction that the individual cannot consciously control. This sudden tightening or spasm of the vaginal muscles prevents entry or makes penetration severely difficult and painful. Vaginismus is a condition that can be painful, distressing, and often…
Early detection is the single most important factor in the fight against breast cancer. Knowing how to perform a self-exam can help you identify any changes in your breasts early on, giving you the best chance for successful treatment. Understanding Your Breasts It’s important to remember that every woman’s breasts are different, and they…
Let’s be honest for most of us, understanding our menstrual cycle starts and ends with, “Am I getting my period?” But the truth is, our bodies go through four distinct phases every month, and each one comes with its own hormonal shifts, emotional changes, and even differences in how we look and feel. It’s not…
Hey there, beautiful souls! 💕 Are you looking for a safe space to get answers to those burning questions on sex, relationships, mental wellbeing, sexual and reproductive health and rights, you might be too shy to ask anyone else? Well, look no further because Marie Stopes South Africa has partnered with Girl Effect’s Big…
By Marie Stopes South Africa Picture this: a lively, buzzing Sex Expo filled with vendors showcasing their jaw-dropping goodies. Amidst the sea of excitement, Marie Stopes South Africa set up our very own women’s wellness clinic. It was like stepping into a wonderland of knowledge and empowerment! We firmly believe that reproductive health is a…
Bacterial vaginosis is the most common cause of vaginal infection and inflammation. It is most prevalent in women who are in their reproductive years, but it can affect women of any age. It frequently develops after unprotected sexual intercourse with a new partner, and is extremely rare for a woman to have it if she…
A number of women use so-called feminine hygiene products which include intimate cleansers and wipes, douches, and even deodorants, in the hope to feel clean and fresh. In recent years, many a discussion on vaginal health have seen the rise of the mantra — “the vagina is a self-cleaning oven.” We take a look at…
The year 2020 came with a number of challenges on a scale we haven’t witnessed in a very long time. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the earth and had an impact on our everyday lives. This, sadly unsurprisingly, has had a detrimental effect on women as seen by women disproportionately affected and…