Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can cause pelvic pain, unusual discharge and changes to your period, but symptoms aren't always obvious. Learn what causes PID, how to recognise possible symptoms, how it differs from period pain and when to seek medical care.
Women and girls remain central to conversations about menstrual health, but they're not the only people who menstruate. Learn how practical, inclusive language and period care can support everyone.
A 2026 study found oestrogenic activity in extracts from 8 of 18 tampon products. Here is what the lab results show, what they cannot tell us about health and how tampons are regulated in Australia.
Hormones can influence mood, but they aren't the whole story. Learn about PMDD, premenstrual mood changes, hormonal contraception, perimenopause and how to recognise when recurring symptoms need support.
Nervous system regulation is about finding ways to respond to stress and settle after demanding moments. Learn practical techniques including slow breathing, grounding, movement and rest, what the evidence says about meditation and NSDR, and when ongoing symptoms may need professional support.
Not sure what a menstrual health term means? Use this A–Z glossary to understand period, cycle, reproductive anatomy, pelvic health and period product terminology, with links to practical guides and further information.
Period blood can be pink, bright red, dark red, brown or almost black. Learn why colour changes during your period and which signs, including heavy bleeding, large clots or unexpected bleeding, are more useful to watch.
Period flow varies, and you don't need to measure every millilitre to know when bleeding may be heavy. Learn how to recognise your usual flow, signs of heavy menstrual bleeding and when a change is worth discussing with a doctor.
Spotting is light vaginal bleeding outside your usual period. It can happen with contraception, hormonal changes, pregnancy, infections and other conditions. Learn what can cause it and when to see a doctor.
Maintaining an exercise routine during your period can be beneficial when it comes to managing cramps and other period symptoms. Here's some tips for working out during your period.
PMS causes physical and emotional symptoms in the week or two before a period. Learn about bloating, mood changes, cramps and other symptoms, plus treatments and when to seek help.
Research has found measurable metals in some tampons, but finding a metal in a product does not by itself show that it causes harm. Here’s what the evidence actually tells us.
Endometriosis can cause painful periods, pelvic pain, painful sex, bowel or bladder symptoms and fertility difficulties. Learn what endometriosis is, how it is now investigated in Australia and the treatment and support options available.
No tea has been proven to relieve PMS, but chamomile and ginger have some promising research. Learn what the evidence says about popular herbal teas and how to use them safely.
Period tracker apps can help you record periods, symptoms and cycle patterns and estimate when your next period may start. Learn how they work, compare popular tracking options and understand the limitations of period and ovulation predictions, privacy considerations and when changes in your cycle may be worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
Vaginal douching isn't recommended for routine hygiene. Learn why your vagina doesn't need internal washing, how douching may affect vaginal bacteria and irritation, how to clean your vulva gently and when changes in discharge or odour are worth discussing with a doctor.
COVID-19 may be associated with temporary changes to the menstrual cycle in some people. Here’s what current research says about infection, vaccination, stress and when a change in your period is worth checking.
You may have heard that the uterus doubles in size during the menstrual cycle, but the evidence is much less dramatic. Learn what actually changes in the uterus and endometrium during your period, ovulation and the rest of the cycle.
Talking about periods works best as a series of relaxed, honest conversations. Learn when to start, how to explain periods, what your child should know before their first period and how to help them feel prepared at home, school and when they're out.
Period positivity is about removing shame from menstruation—not pretending every period feels positive. Discover how open, inclusive and practical conversations can help challenge period stigma.
Yes, you can have sex during your period if you want to. Learn practical ways to reduce mess, which menstrual discs and sponge-style products can be worn during penetrative sex and what to know about contraception, STIs, toxic shock syndrome and aftercare.
Period poverty refers to the lack of access to sanitary products, adequate menstrual hygiene education and proper sanitation facilities. This issue disproportionately affects those who menstruate, particularly those from low-income, marginalised communities and developing countries.