The Best Health Advice We’ve Received from Healthcare Providers

Over the years, we’ve gathered tons of useful advice from sexual and reproductive health care providers. Here are some of our favorite tips:

1. Your period won’t attract sharks (and other vacation sex tips)
   Good news! You can swim while on your period without worrying about sharks any more than usual. Also, while you’re at it, avoid getting sand in your vagina—it’s not a great idea. A health expert shares answers to all your vacation-related sex questions.
2. Vaginal discharge is totally normal
   It’s perfectly normal for people with vaginas to experience discharge after puberty. Here’s everything you need to know about vaginal discharge, what’s typical, and when it might be time to see a healthcare provider.
3. You can start birth control right after an abortion
   Although it might be the last thing on your mind after an abortion, it’s important to know that you can get pregnant again quickly afterward. This article explains when and how to start birth control after an abortion.
4. Birth control doesn’t affect future fertility
   There’s a lot of confusion surrounding birth control, but rest assured, using it now won’t impact your ability to get pregnant later. Our experts debunk common myths about birth control and explain what you should know.
5. You don’t need special products to clean your vagina or vulva
   Despite what’s marketed in the “feminine hygiene” section of the store, you don’t need any products to clean your vagina. Your vulva only needs water for cleaning. We’ve got more surprising facts on this topic!
6. The morning-after pill and abortion pill are not the same
   A lot of people confuse the morning-after pill (emergency contraception), the birth control pill, and the abortion pill. They’re different! A healthcare provider explains how each one works and when to use them.
7. It’s okay to switch providers if yours isn’t a good fit
   If your current provider isn’t meeting your needs, it’s not just okay to find a new one—it’s a smart move. Finding a provider who works well with you is crucial for getting the care you deserve. This article helps you figure out what to look for when choosing a new provider.