As a child, I had very clear skin. When my older cousins started breaking out, I was sure it would never happen to me. And for a while, it didn���t, until 17, when I woke up with half my face covered in painful cystic acne. I tried everything: pharmacy prescriptions, black soap, toothpaste, lemon juice, Cacatin, shea butter; if someone recommended it, I used it. Nothing worked.

My skin didn���t start healing until I simplified my routine and stopped following every ���skincare rule��� I thought I knew. Looking back, I realised most of what I grew up believing was just bad advice.

It made me curious about the myths other women also had to unlearn. So I asked 16 women to share theirs and got Dr Olufolakemi Cole-Adeife, a consultant dermatologist, to debunk them.

1. ���If you have oily skin, you don���t need moisturiser������ Chioma, 32, Marketing Executive

Growing up, my older sister told me that putting cream on oily skin was like adding fuel to a fire. So for years, I’d wash my face and leave it bare, thinking I was doing the right thing. My skin was constantly shiny by midday, and I’d blot with tissue paper every hour. It wasn’t until a dermatologist explained that my skin was overcompensating for dehydration that everything clicked. Now I use a lightweight gel moisturiser, and ironically, my skin produces less oil than it did when I was avoiding moisturiser completely.

Expert Opinion: Moisturization helps control oil, and when the skin is dehydrated, it may cause it to produce more oil. For oily skin, choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that is more water-based or a gel formula.

2. ���Higher price means better product. Expensive cream = clear skin��� ��� Aza, 27, Content Creator

Good old YouTube and social media are where I learned this skincare rule from. I’d watch these beauty influencers with glowing skin use ���50,000 serums, and I genuinely believed that was the secret. It worked at first, or at least that’s what people around me were saying, then my face went back to its usual rough, black, spot-ridden self. I kept buying really expensive toners and serums, thinking I just needed to find the right one. Instead, I broke out in fungal acne and had the dullest skin of my life. My bank account suffered too.

The turning point came when I started investigating the actual ingredients in products rather than just the price tags. I realised there’s more to skincare than just having one particular skin type. When I saw no improvements for months despite spending so much, I knew something was wrong. Now I know that expensive doesn’t mean it’s good. I’ve also learned that results aren’t as immediate as the YouTube girlies make them seem. It can take time, and that’s fine. Less is more. I buy smaller sizes to test things out first, which saves me from wasting money and having regrets.

Expert Opinion: The price doesn���t always correlate with efficacy. Sometimes all you are paying for is the brand name. What really matters is proven, science-backed ingredients and formulations.

3. ���No need to go to a dermatologist, just know your skin type and find products that have the skin type tag��� ��� Ngozi, 45, School Administrator

My mother taught me this skincare rule, and I passed it on to my daughter before I knew better. The logic seemed sound: figure out if you’re oily, dry, or combination, then buy products labelled for that skin type. I never thought I’d need a doctor for something as simple as skincare. But over the years, I developed hyperpigmentation that wouldn’t fade no matter what ‘for dark spots’ cream I bought. Then came the psoriasis. It started small, just a few patches I thought were dry skin, but it spread. That’s when I finally went to see a dermatologist. I cried in that office when she showed me what years of using the wrong products had done. Now my rule is simple: anywhere it hurts, go to who knows best, doctors.

Expert Opinion: Skin concerns are more complex than ���types���, and we all have unique concerns that transcend skin types. A dermatologist consultation will address real issues with evidence-based solutions in a personalised way.

4. ���You only need sunscreen on sunny days��� ��� Folake, 29, Graphic Designer

Lagos’ weather is unpredictable; one minute it’s sunny, the next it’s raining. I only wore sunscreen when I knew I’d be under direct sunlight for extended periods, like on beach trips. Regular cloudy or rainy days? I didn’t bother. I couldn’t understand why my dark spots weren’t fading despite using all the brightening products. A dermatologist friend finally explained that UVA rays can get inside a building as well. I was getting sun damage while sitting by my office window every single day. Now my sunscreen sits right next to my toothbrush; it’s that non-negotiable.

Expert Opinion: Ultraviolet B rays are low on cloudy days, but UVA rays are present even on cloudy, rainy, and indoor days (UVA can penetrate glass). UVA is a major trigger or aggravator of hyperpigmentation, so please use sunscreen every day!

5. ���Drinking lots of water hydrates your skin enough��� ��� Amaka, 35, Pharmacist

You’d think that as a pharmacist, I’d know better, but even I fell for this skincare rule. I drank at least three litres of water daily and genuinely believed my skin would be plump and hydrated from the inside out. Don’t get me wrong, I felt great internally, and my body appreciated it. But my skin? Still dry and flaky, especially around my nose and forehead. I finally accepted that while water is essential, my skin barrier needed direct, topical help. Adding a good moisturiser to my routine made all the difference. Now I do both: hydrate from within and nourish from the outside.

Expert Opinion: Water is great for overall health, but the skin still needs topical hydration and moisturisers for the best results.

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6. ���Natural ingredients are always safer or better, and gentler than clinical treatments��� ��� Temi, 38, Small Business Owner

I was that person who swore by everything ‘natural’ and ‘organic.’ Chemical-free this, plant-based that. If it came from the earth, it had to be better than something made in a lab, right? I made face masks from ingredients in my kitchen: turmeric, honey, raw tomatoes, you name it. Then I tried raw lemon juice as a toner because someone on Instagram said it would brighten my skin. I got burns. My face was red, stinging, and peeling for weeks. That’s when I learned that natural doesn’t automatically mean safe. Now I look for products that have been properly tested and formulated, whether they’re natural or not.

Expert Opinion: Some natural products can irritate the skin, too. Isn���t poison ivy or ���werepe��� natural? Safety comes from proper testing, not just from being ���natural��� or unprocessed.

7. ���Black/darker skin doesn���t need sunscreen��� ��� Jennifer, 42, HR Manager

I genuinely believed melanin was enough protection. I’d hear about sunscreen and think, ‘That’s for oyinbo people.’ Why would I need it when I’m already dark? But after a beach vacation where I thought I was immune to sun damage, I came back with dark patches that took months to fade. The sun doesn’t discriminate. Now I wear SPF 50 every single day, rain or shine. My skin has never looked more even.

Expert Opinion: Darker skin can burn, tan unevenly, and is prone to hyperpigmentation from the sun���s rays. Sunscreen is more important for lighter skin tones to prevent skin cancer, but it is important for darker skin as well to prevent hyperpigmentation and premature skin ageing.

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8. ���Your skin gets used to a product, so it stops working��� ��� Blessing, 31, Software Developer

I had this amazing serum that cleared my breakouts within weeks. I was glowing. Then, about three months in, I started breaking out again. Immediately, I assumed my skin had ‘gotten used to it’ and the product stopped working. I switched to something else, then something else again when that ‘stopped working’ too. I was cycling through products every few months, spending so much money. Turned out, I’d been slacking on my routine during a stressful work period, and I’d also been eating terribly. The product was fine, it was me. 

Expert Opinion: Other factors may be involved in the recurrence of breakouts while using a product, like the level of consistency or changes in diet and environment. It may not be related to the product. Also, beware of imitation products, which are quite common in our environment these days.

9. ���Exfoliating every day makes skin clearer and smoother������ Hauwa, 26, Journalist

I read somewhere that exfoliation was the key to smooth, glowing skin, so I thought more must be better. I exfoliated every single day, sometimes with a physical scrub in the morning and a chemical exfoliant at night. For a week or two, my skin felt incredibly smooth. Then it started stinging whenever I applied anything, even water. My face was red, sensitive, and breaking out in places I’d never had acne before. I’d destroyed my skin barrier trying to make it perfect. 

Expert Opinion: Exfoliation is great for the skin, but over-exfoliation damages the skin barrier. Two to three times a week is ideal.

10. ���Retinol thins the skin permanently��� ��� Funmi, 51, University Lecturer

When I started noticing fine lines in my late forties, a colleague recommended retinol. But another friend warned me that it would thin my skin permanently and make me look older in the long run. I was terrified and avoided retinol for two years. Finally, at a conference I attended for work, I learned the truth: retinol thickens the skin over time. I started using it properly, with sunscreen during the day, and the results have been incredible. My skin looks firmer and healthier. I wish I hadn’t wasted those two years being afraid.

Expert Opinion: Retinol can cause temporary dryness, but it actually thickens skin over time by boosting collagen production.

11. ���Home/DIY hacks (toothpaste, lemon, baking soda) will clear pimples and popping them helps them heal faster��� ��� Chiamaka, 21, University Student

TikTok convinced me that toothpaste would dry out my pimples overnight. I also saw videos of people using baking soda as an exfoliant and lemon juice to fade dark spots. I tried all of them. The toothpaste burned my skin and left dark marks. The baking soda was so harsh that my face felt raw for days. And the lemon juice? Let’s just say I learned about photosensitivity the hard way when I stepped outside after applying it. As for popping pimples, I thought I was helping them heal faster. Instead, I spread the infection and now have scars on my cheeks that I’m still trying to fade. I’ve learned to leave the DIY hacks alone and use actual acne treatments from the pharmacy or a dermatologist.

Expert Opinion: Most DIY hacks actually burn or irritate the skin. Popping pimples can spread infection and worsen scars. 

12. ���Coconut oil or heavy oils are safe for everyone��� ��� Ivie, 28, Fashion Designer

Coconut oil was my everything. I used it on my hair, my body, and my face. Everyone online was raving about how natural and moisturising it was. But my face started breaking out with these deep, painful cysts that wouldn’t go away. I couldn’t figure out what was wrong because I was using something ‘natural’ and ‘healthy.’ When I finally stopped using coconut oil on my face, the cystic acne cleared up within weeks. Not everything that works for everyone will work for you.

Expert Opinion: Coconut oil or heavy oils are often comedogenic and clog pores for many people. They may be okay for some, but they can trigger breakouts in those with acne-prone skin.

13. ���Products sold in stores or markets are automatically safe��� ��� Maryam, 44, Civil Servant

I used to buy my skincare products from the market near my house. They were cheaper than pharmacy prices, and I assumed that if they were being sold openly, they must be safe and approved. I bought a cream that promised to clear dark spots in two weeks. Within days, my face started peeling and burning. I showed my sister, who’s a nurse, and she was horrified. The cream contained steroids and mercury, ingredients that are banned but still make their way into products sold in unregulated markets. I had to see a dermatologist to repair the damage, and it took months. Now I only buy from trusted pharmacies and verified retailers, even if it costs more. My skin is worth it.

Expert Opinion: Hmmm… not always. Some are unregulated, fake, or harmful. Always buy from trusted retailers.

14. ���Bleaching creams recommended by friends/influencers are harmless��� ��� Adanna, 33, Banker

I had a friend who went from dark-skinned to significantly lighter within months, and everyone kept complimenting her. When I asked what she used, she recommended a cream she got from an influencer. She looked happy and confident, so I thought it must be safe. I used it for about six weeks, and yes, I got lighter. But then my skin started developing strange discolouration patches that were lighter than others, and some areas that looked almost grey. My skin also became extremely sensitive; anything I applied would sting.

I went to a dermatologist who told me the cream contained steroids and hydroquinone at dangerous levels. She warned me about the long-term damage: thinning skin, increased risk of infection, and permanent discolouration. I’m still dealing with the aftermath years later. I wish I’d loved my original skin tone enough to never touch that cream or skincare rule.

Expert Opinion: Bleaching creams are never harmless! Most contain steroids, mercury, or hydroquinone and cause skin damage, discolouration and increase the risk of skin infection. Avoid! All skin colours are beautiful!

15. ���Dark spots will go away if you scrub harder or use strong acids frequently��� ��� Bongee, 25, Entrepreneur

I learned from my mum to scrub hard to remove dark spots. I have sensitive skin plus aquagenic pruritus, so I was always scratching or slapping my body and dealing with wounds. My mum would tell me to scrub harder during baths to ‘remove the dead skin’ and make the dark spots fade. I used rough sponges and harsh black soap, thinking that was the solution. It only made things worse; my skin was constantly irritated, and the dark spots got darker from all the inflammation.

When I moved out and started bathing myself gently with just mild soap, I noticed my skin didn’t fall apart like I thought it would. In fact, it started healing. I’ve learned that less is more. My skin can’t handle harsh products, even black soap, so you’ll find me shopping in the baby section now. Gentle care has done more for my dark spots than years of aggressive scrubbing ever did.

Expert Opinion: Hard scrubbing just creates more inflammation and results in darker spots. Gentle, consistent care with twice- or thrice-weekly hydroxy acid washes or creams works best.

16. ���You must lighten your skin to remove acne marks quickly. Fairer skin is more beautiful anyway, so good!��� ��� Zainab, 60, Retired Teacher

In my generation, fair skin was considered the standard of beauty. When my daughters were young, I encouraged them to use lightening creams because I genuinely believed it would make them more beautiful and help fade their acne scars faster. I used those creams myself for decades. Now, at sixty, I’m dealing with thin, fragile skin that scars easily and has uneven pigmentation that no amount of makeup can hide. My daughters, thankfully, didn’t listen to me for long. They embraced their natural skin tones and treated their acne properly with dermatologist-recommended products.

Watching them now, confident and glowing in their natural complexions, I realise how wrong I was. Skin health has nothing to do with being light or dark. Beauty truly does come in every shade. If I could go back, I would tell my younger self that my deep brown skin was already beautiful, and that treating acne marks doesn’t require changing your skin color. I share my story now so other women don’t make the same mistake I did. Love your skin at every shade, it’s the only one you’ve got.

Expert Opinion: Skin health is not about skin colour. Light skin does not equate to healthy skin. If you do not treat the underlying causes of acne, the dark spots will persist. Treating acne marks doesn���t require lightening your skin tone. Beauty comes in every shade!

Dr. Olufolakemi Cole-Adeife is a consultant dermatologist and one of Nigeria���s most passionate voices for healthy, beautiful skin ��� backed by science, not hype. She combines clinical expertise with public education to empower people with accurate skincare guidance, especially for African skin types. From research to community advocacy to content creation, she champions safe, inclusive skincare for everyone. She is an award-winning doctor recognised globally for her impact in dermatology and public health, and was recently honoured with the ILDS Young Dermatologist International Achievement Award for the African region. She regularly engages and educates her online community on skin health as Foladermadoc on and TikTok.

Next Read: The Real Cost of Clear Skin for Women in Nigeria

���Sex while high is amazing,��� Lisa tells 91心頭利嫋. The 36-year-old didn���t start smoking until her 20s to manage chronic pain, but once she combined it with sex, everything changed.

In DMs, group chats, and late-night convos, weed���s reputation as a sex-enhancer keeps popping up. Some say it makes sex wetter, deeper, and more intense. Others say it leaves them numb, paranoid, or just… sleepy. And for many, the stigma around weed or its ties to substance misuse still brings hesitation.

So, for every Lisa who swears by weed-assisted sex, there���s someone like Tope, 28: ���I just get sleepy or anxious. Once, I fully dissociated during sex after smoking. Never again.���

Google ���weed and orgasms��� or ���cannabis and sex,��� and you���ll find that the that exist mostly support the idea that weed and sex are the ultimate combo, but there is still a percentage that disagrees. This isn���t a new topic. But despite all the anecdotes, there still isn���t enough research to conclusively answer the question: Is weed the secret ingredient to better orgasms?

I decided to reach out to Halima Mason, an sex & relationship therapist with an MSC in Psychology, and , a trained integrative psychologist and herbalist, and the founder of , to get us some answers. 

Now, a , but a practitioner trained in using plants to support healing. They take a more holistic approach, looking at the mind, body, spirit, and emotional state as one connected system. Instead of chasing symptoms, they focus on root causes and balance. And when it comes to plant medicine, their insights run deep.

And cannabis? . It grows seasonally, has no woody stem, and like other medicinal plants, its flowers, leaves, and extracts are where its therapeutic power lies. So, when trying to make sense of weed���s effect on the body, and possibly orgasms, addressing the clinical studies and going beyond them felt necessary.

First Things First: What Is Weed and How Does It Affect the Body?

Weed. Cannabis. Loud. Igbo. Whatever you call it, it comes from the Cannabis sativa or indica plant ��� dried flowers, leaves, and extracts packed with natural compounds. The two most important?

• THC (tetrahydrocannabinol): This is the psychoactive compound, the one that gets you ���high.��� It affects mood, perception, memory, coordination, and pleasure.
  
• CBD (cannabidiol): Non-psychoactive. Known for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and anxiety-reducing effects.

When you smoke, vape, or eat cannabis (hello, edibles), these compounds interact with your body���s endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors that help regulate things like mood, appetite, pain, and pleasure.

For some people, small doses of THC can:

• Relax the body
  
• Heighten touch and sensitivity
  
• Lower inhibitions
  
• Slow time (which can make sex feel longer or more intense)
  
• Enhance the connection between body and mind
  

But depending on your body chemistry, tolerance, and dosage, it can also:

• Trigger anxiety or paranoia
  
• Make you feel foggy or disconnected from your body
  
• Numb sensations
  
• Put you straight to sleep (anti-climactic, literally)

So��� the effect is highly personal. What feels like magic for one babe might feel like a panic attack to another.

Are there herbs traditionally used to support women���s pleasure, intimacy, or sexual arousal?

Senami shares that ���Yohimbe (Pausinystalia johimbe), White���s Ginger (Mondia whitei), and Damiana (Turnera diffusa) are examples of herbs that have traditionally supported and enhanced sexual pleasure, intimacy, desire, sexual performance, or arousal.���

She also explains that cannabis plays a historic and spiritual role in sexuality. ���Many African and indigenous cultures prepare cannabis in ritual to alleviate stress, enhance stimulation, and promote pleasure and connection. THC and CBD are the active compounds in cannabis that have anti-anxiety effects, especially in smaller doses. This may really help reduce anxiety, induce calm, and spiritual openness.���

Can cannabis impact sexual pleasure or orgasm for women?

Yes, cannabis can influence sexual experience, though responses vary significantly. 

���Sex is a sensory experience,��� Halima says. ���Some people report feeling more in their bodies, less anxious about performance, and more focused on the present moment when using cannabis during intimacy.���

She explains that the endocannabinoid system interacts with brain regions tied to sexual response. ���That could be why some women experience heightened sensations or more intense orgasms, especially with certain strains.���

Still, she cautions that individual responses vary widely depending on dose, strain, body chemistry, mental state, and even emotional context. ���What works beautifully for one person might dull everything for someone else.���

Do you think the claim that ���weed makes sex better��� holds any truth from a holistic or herbalist perspective?

From a holistic perspective, Senami says THC can open the heart and , enhancing sexual and sensual power, connection, and creativity.

���When this plant (or any herbs for that matter) is intentionally used rather than recreationally used, there is potential for wonderful and healing sex,��� she explains. ���From a herbalist’s perspective, cannabis is not a magic cure or solution for sexual difficulties or openness. Its effectiveness is based on many nuances like body chemistry, mindset, emotional state, partner dynamics, and intention. Cannabis is best used as a sacred tool and not solely for pleasure.���

Next Read: 5 Nigerian Women Talk About The First Time They Smoked Weed

How does it support or disrupt arousal and intimacy?

According to Halima, cannabis can ease anxiety, soften self-conscious thoughts, and foster a sense of openness. This is especially true for people who struggle with body image or intrusive thoughts during sex. ���It can help people drop into their bodies and tune into their partner,��� she says.

But it���s not all upside. ���The same plant that helps one person feel liberated might make another feel zoned out or paranoid,��� she adds. Certain strains, especially in high doses, may cause drowsiness, numbness, or a sense of disconnection. ���That unpredictability is a key clinical concern.���

Do people overestimate or underestimate its effects?

���Both, actually,��� Halima says. ���People often overestimate cannabis as a sexual panacea, expecting it to transform their experience dramatically. In reality, cannabis tends to amplify existing states.��� 

In other words: If you���re feeling good, safe, and turned on, cannabis might heighten that. But if you���re anxious, disconnected, or unsure, it could amplify that too.

She also warns that some people overlook the downsides. ���There���s a potential for psychological dependence, impaired judgment around consent, and using substances as a crutch rather than addressing underlying sexual or relationship issues.���

Anything you think people should know before using cannabis (or any plant medicine) for sexual wellness?

���Anything can be poison with the wrong intentions, even plants,��� Senami warns. ���Throughout ancient traditions and cultures, there has been meaningful intention, a sacred space, and often a guide for support. It is important for people to keep this in mind when experimenting with any herbs (including cannabis): research is necessary, and safety is the priority.���

What should people know before trying cannabis for sexual enhancement?

���Set and setting matter,��� Halima says. ���Your headspace, your environment, your dynamic with your partner all shape the experience.���

She recommends starting with a low dose and having clear communication beforehand about boundaries and expectations. And don���t assume a one-time try will reveal everything: ���Cannabis affects regular users differently than it does occasional ones. Your body might need more than one encounter to fully understand how it reacts, but that doesn���t mean you need to become a regular user. It just means managing expectations.���

Most importantly, she urges people to explore why they���re reaching for enhancement in the first place. ���Pleasure is great. But if someone feels like they need a substance to enjoy intimacy, that���s something to unpack, not just light up and ignore.���

She adds, ���In my clinical work, I encourage clients to reflect on whether enhancement is serving exploration or masking deeper disconnection. Exploring altered states can be part of sexual self-discovery, but true satisfaction comes from inner attunement. Trust your body. It knows more than you think.���

And if you live in a region where cannabis is legal? ���Do your due diligence. Understand your local laws and always source from reputable places.���

The takeaway

Weed isn���t a guaranteed orgasm cheat code and it���s definitely not a fix for deeper disconnection. For some people, it elevates pleasure, lowers anxiety, and helps them feel more in their bodies. For others, it���s a one-way trip to anxiety, dissociation, or deep sleep.

Cannabis can support sensuality, pleasure, and connection, but only when used intentionally, carefully, and in alignment with your body���s unique needs. It���s not a miracle fix or a one-size-fits-all solution. It���s a plant. One with potential, yes, but not a replacement for emotional safety, trust or communication. 

So, if you���re curious about trying weed in bed, start slow, do your research, and listen to your body. Your orgasm isn���t hiding in a blunt. But maybe, just maybe, the right dose, in the right moment, with the right person, could take things to a new high.

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When it comes to pregnancy in Nigeria, there are multiple myths that just don���t make sense. What do you mean if you walk over a pregnant woman, her child will look like you? Is it spiritual DNA or what?

But when trended on X a few days ago, about how the local drink called ���zobo��� causes miscarriages, we just had to ask: Is this a myth, or is this claim backed by science? We���ve got answers.

First off, what���s zobo?

Zobo is a popular Nigerian drink made from dried roselle leaves (Hibiscus sabdariffa). It is also referred to as Sobolo (Ghana) and Bissap Juice (Senegal) and is usually infused with pineapple, ginger and cloves. It���s well-known for some medicinal qualities ��� antioxidant, anti-hypertensive and anti-obesity.

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Does it really cause miscarriages?

According to Dr Ojo, a gynaecologist in Lagos who���s been practising for over a decade, it is a possibility.

���The research is sparse, but a show that hibiscus sabdariffa ��� the zobo leaves ��� might stimulate uterine contraction and contribute to maternal malnutrition. You might think, ���But we aren���t rats���. However, it���s an indicator that it may be unsafe for pregnant women. 

Ironically, it can also be bad for you if you���re trying to avoid pregnancy as it contains phytoestrogen, which can disrupt the effectiveness of oestrogen-based birth control pills.���

Other medical sources also note that zobo can , which isn���t what you want while pregnant. 

What about the women who didn���t miscarry after taking zobo?

Dr Ojo confirms that this happens too.

���Like I said, it is a possibility. What might cause a specific reaction in Person A might not do anything in Person B. 

There are minimal studies on human subjects to confirm or deny that zobo causes miscarriages, but I���ve personally seen at least one related case. I usually suggest that it���s a risk you���re better off not taking. You have the rest of your life to drink it; nine months won���t do anything.���

Could pineapples be the problem?

Pineapple, an important ingredient in most zobo drinks, contains an enzyme called , which is believed to cause uterine contractions ��� the ���cramps��� during menstrual periods and labour. 

However, a found that pineapple juice only caused significant uterine contractions when applied directly to the isolated uterus (womb) of pregnant rats. No contractions were recorded when live pregnant rats ingested pineapple juice. Also, the amount of bromelain found in pineapples doesn���t supply a large enough dose to trigger a uterine reaction.

So, unless you find a way to bring out your womb and pour pineapple juice on it, or your doctor prescribes avoiding it, it���s safe to take pineapples while pregnant.

The takeaway

Zobo may not be the culprit in most miscarriages, but research shows it���s a possibility. The drink may also interfere with oestrogen-based birth control pills to actually lead to pregnancy. 

But while zobo has numerous other health benefits, pregnant women should avoid it unless their medical providers give the go-ahead. Remember what they say about prevention being better than cure? Exactly.

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Like most things in our society, men and women have different experiences ��� relationships, even ��� with facial hair. For men, facial hair is usually associated with maturity and good looks. For women, the situation is different.

And more than a little odd

It���s not uncommon for people to claim that facial hair in women is a sign of masculinity, ���wickedness���, and even infertility linked to hormonal imbalance. Are these claims based on scientific fact, or are they just myths? provides answers.

What causes facial hair growth in women?

���I���ve heard the funniest beliefs about facial hair; how it indicates riches, wickedness, infertility, or that it means the women would beat their husbands,��� Henrietta says.

Henrietta explains that there���s actually a medical term for this unusual hair growth.

���It���s called , and it���s characterised by excess hair growth in women that occurs in a male pattern distribution: face, arms, chest,�� abdomen and back. The hair is usually excessive, coarse, curly, and pigmented. Hirsutism is quite common and mostly implies abnormal androgen (hormone) action.���

Androgens are hormones typically found in men but are also produced in small quantities in women. Abnormal androgen action, in this case, means that the hormone is produced at a higher level than it should be. 

But before you get scared, not all facial hair is a sign of this condition.

���Some people are just naturally hairy. Sparse hair growth on the chin, for example, doesn���t necessarily indicate hirsutism. 

However, we must note that some people might present with only facial hair in hirsutism, but it is often as described; excessive, coarse, curly and really dark.���

Is every woman with facial hair at risk of a medical issue like hormonal imbalance?

In a word, no. Henrietta explains further.

���Not all facial hair is related to hormonal imbalance, and it doesn���t indicate masculinity. But when facial hair is caused by hirsutism, the person has high testosterone levels. This doesn���t always represent a serious medical problem, but if it does, it���ll have to be investigated and managed.

Some serious medical problems that can cause hirsutism include adrenal gland disorders, ovarian tumours or Cushing disease.���

Sometimes, the cause of hirsutism is unknown. But Henrietta notes that there are certain risk factors for the condition.

���Obesity can influence the way the body produces and processes hormones. If someone in your family also has excess hair, you can have it too.���

RELATED: Talk True: Is Period Syncing a Real Thing?

Should you be worried?

���While facial hair can be a very emotionally distressing experience for most women, excess hair in itself is not harmful. The concern most women have is due to cosmetic reasons and appearance. However, it���s necessary to rule out any potential or underlying health issue,��� Henrietta notes.

Do you need to see a doctor?

Henrietta emphasises that while it���s not always a concern, excess hair may need to be investigated.

���The clinician needs to confirm that the underlying condition that caused the hirsutism, if any, isn���t harmful to the person. For example, while facial hair growth doesn���t mean the woman has Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), it���s one of the commonest causes of facial hair growth. PCOS leads to ovarian cysts, which can lead to defective hormone production in a biological female and thus can cause fertility problems if not managed.

Whatever the cause, it doesn���t mean the patient is losing her femininity.���

Can facial hair growth be stopped or treated?

Yes. Depending on the cause of the hair growth, different strategies can be effective in its removal.

���Systemic therapy, like the use of oral contraceptives, can help to reduce the production of androgens. You can also go the mechanical depilation way via shaving, plucking, waxing or laser hair removal.���

The takeaway

Facial hair growth doesn���t make you less feminine and probably doesn���t indicate a serious medical issue. If there���s excess hair in other parts of your body, or you just don���t feel comfortable with it, please visit a doctor to rule out any underlying medical issue. 

The next time someone says, ���You have beards/a moustache? That means you���re wicked o���, feel free to hit them with the facts ��� Or just show them real wickedness.

NEXT READ: Talk True: Can Sex ���Loosen��� the Vagina?

Our society���s obsession with vaginas should be the stuff of documentaries at this point. Every market day, you���ll find at least one person sharing their two cents about how a woman with a high is more likely to have a loose vagina.

If it���s not that, it���s people touting the wonders of ���vagina tightening��� creams to battle loose vaginas. It definitely begs the question: Can ���too much��� sex really loosen a vagina, or is this widespread belief just a myth? provides answers.

Can the vagina even get loose?

To understand where the conversation about sex and loose vaginas may have started, it���s important to know if the vagina can even be said to become loose. Mary explains that it can feel less elastic.

���The vagina is a fibromuscular organ or tube that extends from the cervix to the vulva. In simple terms, it contains muscles which allow it to stretch and lengthen during sexual intercourse and return to its regular length and width after. It���s highly elastic, and some factors like ageing, which comes with lower , can cause the vagina to become drier and less elastic.���

So, technically, ���loose��� isn���t the accurate term, as the vagina doesn���t completely lose its stretch. It just becomes less elastic than before.

So, can sex loosen it?

No. Mary confirms it���s physically impossible for penetration to make the vagina less elastic.

���Sex is not enough to destroy the muscles of the vagina to the point where it loses its elasticity. It���s simply incapable.���

Here���s how it works: The allows it to get lubricated and naturally expand when aroused to accommodate a penis or sex toy. Immediately after intercourse, the vagina returns to its regular state.

What factors can contribute to a loose vagina?

Mary explains that only two factors can alter the vagina���s elasticity: Childbirth and age.

���During childbirth, the muscles of the vagina stretch considerably to accommodate the baby���s size, and this typically results in weakened vaginal muscles. But even then, the muscles go back to normal in about 6 – 12 weeks. However, things like multiple childbirth and trauma during delivery may weaken the muscles even more and increase the risk for the muscles to start losing stretch.

For ageing, as I explained earlier, oestrogen levels dip when women become menopausal, which in turn affects vaginal elasticity.���

Ageing is also associated with a weakened pelvic floor, as a result of decreased production; a structural protein that serves as the main component of the body���s connective tissues. The pelvic floor contains muscles that strengthen the vagina, so when they become weak, the vagina is unable to stretch and relax as it normally should, making it less elastic.

Can the vagina become ���tight��� again?

We���ve determined that the vagina doesn���t exactly become ���loose���, so it can���t be said to be ���tight��� either, unless you���re talking about .

However, you can strengthen the muscles around the vagina to help elasticity and enable it to contract/stretch and relax as it should.

���In the event that childbirth contributes to weakened vaginal muscles, help strengthen the pelvic floor, and tighten the muscles around the vagina. They���re also the safest option.

For ageing, therapy options like providing synthetic hormones to postmenopausal women help. In some cases, more advanced procedures like and may be advised. However, these have a certain level of risk and should only be done by licensed medical practitioners.

In response to whether the ���vagina tightening��� creams and gels marketed by so-called wellness experts work as well, Mary responds in the negative.

���What most of these creams and gels do is dry out the mucosal lining of the vagina, thereby decreasing lubrication. Without lubrication, there���d be more friction during intercourse which gives the false sense that the vagina is tighter. The vagina stretches to accommodate the penis with help from lubrication. If that���s absent, users of these creams may experience temporary swelling of the vaginal tissues from friction which is termed to be ���tightening��� but is short-lived.

Some of these creams also have qualities that tighten the vaginal walls for a short time, but it���s not a permanent option. It���s also unsafe because it can result in pain and micro tears in the vagina, leaving it vulnerable to infection and inflammation���.

This should be your reaction if anyone tries to sell it to you

The takeaway

No amount of penetrative sex can loosen the vagina, whether with multiple sexual partners or one. The only factors that can make the vagina lose its elasticity are childbirth and age. Even then, there are options to improve elasticity, and kegel exercises are the safest bet. So, if anyone makes a claim about a woman���s vagina being ���wide��� because she���s had many partners, feel free to hit them *figuratively* with facts.

NEXT READ: Talk True: Is Period Syncing a Real Thing?

The odds of you waking up and developing a sudden craving for cranberry juice are pretty minimal. With its characteristic tart taste, cranberry juice doesn���t rank high on popular refreshment choices, but it���s a hit in the online feminine wellness space.

Here���s why

A quick vaginal health/wellness search on Instagram will reveal many vendors touting the belief that cranberry juice will make (UTIs) go away forever. Is this claim based on facts, or is it a myth? provides answers.

First off, what���s a urinary tract infection?

As the name implies, it���s a bacterial infection of any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. In women, it���s typically characterised by a burning sensation while peeing, cloudy or bright red urine, frequent passing of small amounts of urine, fever and pelvic pain. 

Image: Sora Shimazaki on Pexels

While men can also have urinary tract infections, because they have a shorter urethra than men, making it easier for bacteria to travel to the bladder. Other gender-specific risk factors include using , pregnancy, frequent sexual activity with new partners and menopause. 

It���s important to note that while sex can cause bacteria to move further into the urinary system, UTIs aren���t contagious/sexually transmitted infections.

You know what���ll be contagious, though? The amount of fun you���ll have at HERtitude ��� 91心頭利嫋���s women-only party for the hottest babes. Get tickets .

How does cranberry juice come in?

Some sources also claim that regular intake of cranberry juice improves the vagina���s ���taste��� ��� even though . But Mary explains the flaw in this logic.

���UTIs are infections majorly caused by a bacterial organism called , and as such, are best treated with antibiotics. The rationale for using cranberry juice is that it can, in a way, help to preserve the . Infections are more likely to occur when the normal flora of the urinary tract is disturbed. E. Coli works by attaching itself to the host���s tissue, and suggests that cranberry juice works to prevent the adherence of E. Coli to the urothelium of the urinary tract. Without this attachment, the bacteria can���t infect the mucosal surface, thus preventing an infection from occurring.

But this is prevention. It isn���t enough rationale to use it as a form of treatment as UTIs can only be treated with antibiotics.���

Should you ditch it, then?

Not exactly. 

���It makes more sense to use cranberry juice in a proportionate amount as a preventive measure, though I wouldn���t recommend that���s all you use to prevent urinary tract infections. 

You can use it in addition to concrete preventive measures like drinking more water, urinating before and after sexual intercourse to limit the spread of bacteria, wiping the vaginal area from front to back after using the toilet and not abusing antibiotics.���

Better treatment options for UTIs

Mary emphasises that urinary tract infections can only be treated with antibiotics.

���Once your healthcare provider confirms that the symptoms point to a urinary tract infection, the next thing to do is prescribe the appropriate antibiotic regimen for treatment. Don���t let people who are more profit-oriented tell you otherwise. Cranberry juice is just one of many ways to prevent UTIs ��� especially in recurrent infections ��� and it works in tandem with other preventive measures.���

The takeaway

Cranberry juice for feminine wellness and vaginal health, but it can���t cure urinary tract infections. At best, it���s a preventive measure, but not in isolation if preventing UTIs is the primary goal.

YOU SHOULD ALSO READ: Talk True: Is Period Syncing a Real Thing?

Eight out of ten babes probably share this experience: They were living with other ladies for a while, and suddenly, they realised their menstrual periods had synced.

It���s such a widespread notion that one hardly knows when or how it started; we���ve just come to accept it. But is it based on scientific fact or tales-under-the-moonlight material? An practitioner, Mary says it���s more of the latter.

What���s period syncing?

���We weren���t taught period syncing in medical school, and that���s largely because it���s not backed by extensive research,��� Mary says.

Period syncing describes a popular belief that women who didn���t have synchronised periods before will begin to when they stay in close proximity long enough. It���s also known as or the McClintock effect.

Dr Martha McClintock was the OG babe who started it all. In 1971, she studied a group of 135 women living in a college dorm and concluded that the female communicate with each other due to physical closeness, triggering period syncing. 

Something about the moon?

Period syncing isn���t limited to close proximity with other women. Other claim menstrual cycles also sync with lunar cycles, meaning that periods can be tracked with the different moon phases.

, if menstruation starts during the full moon phase, it���d mean the woman is most fertile during the new moon ��� a claim Mary insists has no scientific basis.

���It���s a thing in some cultures ��� definitely not common in Nigeria, though ��� but no, you can���t sync with the moon.���

You can sync with other hot babes at 91心頭利嫋���s HERtitude! Click to buy your ticket.

It all comes down to mathematics and coincidence

Mary explained that, while there���s little scientific evidence to prove syncing is due to hormones or lunar cycles, there���s actually a valid mathematical explanation.

���Women have different menstrual cycles, and over time, they���ll overlap. For instance, I have a 28-day cycle. This means I won���t start my period on the same day of each month because my cycle doesn���t span a complete month. I can start on the 15th of month one and start on the 18th of the following month. I may even see my period twice in the same month. This probability is higher in those with 26-day cycles, and if such a person is your roommate, your periods will overlap at a point. 

It���s different from someone with a complete 30-day cycle who always menstruates on a particular date. Even then, if you live with someone with a different cycle length, overlapping is a possibility.���

It also explains the moon thing. When the early people ��� read as ���our ancestors��� ��� still relied on lunar calendars, it was just natural to track the menstrual cycle with the lunar cycle as both share an approximate average of 28 days. It wasn���t universal, as there would���ve been women with different cycle lengths, but it kinda worked. Again, mathematics.

What do current findings say?

Quite a number of recent studies have debunked the McClintock effect.

���A and by Oxford University provided data which demonstrated how unlikely it is for women to disrupt each other���s menstrual cycles just by being in close proximity to one another.���

What can actually affect your period?

Since science has agreed that your female bestie doesn’t pose a threat to your menstrual cycle, here are some of the factors Mary confirms can actually affect your period.

���Stress and medication due to certain chronic illnesses can either delay your period or bring it on early. Birth control pills also alter the levels of certain hormones in your body ��� specifically progesterone and estrogen ��� and these control when, or if, you see your period.���

The takeaway

Menstrual cycles don���t converge; they diverge ��� increase indefinitely ��� during the course of life. If you do feel a connection with the other women in your life, it���s probably a coincidence. 

However, if you���ve ���synced��� with the women you live with before and then experienced an ���out of sync��� period, it doesn���t mean anything is wrong with your cycle.

NEXT READ: Talk True: Are Toilet Infections Actually a Thing?

If you paid close attention the first time you heard the term ���toilet infection���, there���s a high possibility it was in a danfo. It probably involved someone standing in one corner of the bus selling pills they swore were the solution to all your life���s problems. 

Sigh

If it wasn���t a danfo, it was one of those loud voices that repeatedly thundered from hidden speakers in the market urging you to buy ���Dr Iguedo���s Goko Cleanser��� to clear the million toilet infections in your system. If you asked the danfo entrepreneur or the cleanser marketers about what the symptoms of toilet infections are, their responses would range from ���itching in the vaginal area��� to ���watery smelly discharge��� and even ���infertility���.

But are toilet infections really a thing? What state must your toilet be in to ���infect��� you? Itohan, a general medicine practitioner, speaks on this. 

What���s a toilet infection?

���Toilet infection is a layman ��� and often misleading ��� term for vaginitis,��� Itohan says. 

Google-trained doctors be like���

(or vaginal infection) is an inflammation of the vagina that may result in itching, unusual discharge and pain. It is usually caused by either one/or a combination of a bacterial or fungal infection, a change in the normal balance of vaginal bacteria, a sexually transmitted infection (like ) or even menopause. And it���s actually a common medical condition.

���About one-third of women ��� especially those in the reproductive age ��� will have vaginitis at one point or another.���

But is it gotten from toilets?

The list of probable causes above doesn���t mention toilets, but I ask Itohan to be sure.

���No. It���s definitely not. A dirty toilet doesn’t lead to a vaginal infection. To know what might be causing inflammation, it���s important to look at the symptoms and more likely causes.

When due to a fungal infection, vaginal inflammation is caused by an overgrowth of yeast (a fungus called Candida). This type of vaginitis is called a yeast infection or vaginal candidiasis and is characterised by intense itching around the vulva, a burning sensation after sex or urination, thick white cottage-cheese-like discharge and general soreness.

Another type of vaginitis is bacterial vaginosis, and it���s typically a result of an imbalance in the normal vaginal bacteria due to factors like douching or unprotected sex with a new partner. The difference here is, this type usually comes with an abnormal offensive odour. Some people don���t even experience itching or any symptoms with bacterial vaginosis.���

While Itohan insists dirty-toilets-causing-infections are a myth, she admits irritants can upset the vaginal environment and cause vaginitis.

���We call this type non-infectious vaginitis, and it���s often caused by an irritation or allergic reaction. Some people will start to itch when they come in contact with chemicals from perfumed soaps, detergents or tissues. This is why your doctor will always advise you to clean the vulva with water and mild soap. Vulva, not vagina, please. That���s another recipe for bacterial imbalance.���

And definitely don���t do this:

Generalising can be dangerous

As someone who���s seen several cases of vaginitis, Itohan understands the dangers of blanketing every symptom as a ���toilet infection���.

���Most people attribute every itch or discomfort they feel to yeast or some toilet infection and just use to relieve the itching. But you need to know the actual cause if you want long-term relief. 

Imagine treating vaginitis caused by , a sexually transmitted infection, with boric acid (which treats yeast infections). You���d get temporary relief but left untreated, trichomoniasis can last years and cause complications like premature delivery in pregnant women and poses an increased risk for cervical cancer.���

ALSO READ: After Surviving Cervical Cancer, I Just Want Peace

Should you be worried?

Even though vaginitis may be concerning, it���s not something to be too worried about.

���Whatever the cause of vaginitis is, it���s usually treatable. It���s nothing to be ashamed of. Don���t be scared to visit your doctor. It���s ten times better than relying on what Aunty A from Instagram said she used to treat hers.���

Know your body, babes

The first step to properly detecting and managing vaginitis is knowing your body well enough to observe when something���s off.

���Every woman has some form of vaginal discharge and smell. The discharge tends to change in consistency and quantity throughout the menstrual cycle. When you���re in tune with your vaginal health, you���d know when there���s a different odour.

For example, yeast infections are probably the most common type of vaginitis (after bacterial vaginosis), and it tends to reoccur in most ladies. A babe who���s had it before and is self-aware knows to watch out for factors that increase the risk, such as using antibiotics and birth control pills which may disrupt normal vagina , hormonal changes due to the menstrual cycle or pregnancy, or any condition that causes a weakened immune system. Again, most types of vaginitis are highly treatable.���

On treatment

Itohan emphasises that treatment is relatively simple and accessible, but the right diagnosis is key.

���Once a diagnosis is made by your doctor or healthcare provider, treatment will typically involve over-the-counter pills, creams or suppositories. A yeast infection requires antifungal medications, while antibiotics are the go-to for bacterial vaginosis. See why proper diagnosis is important?���

Preventing vaginitis is also very possible, and mainly requires some lifestyle changes.

���Avoid douching like a plague. Please don���t steam your vagina to make it ���tight���. It may destroy naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina and lead to an infection. Avoid scented tampons or soaps. Change out of wet clothing as soon as you can. Clean your sex toys after every use. Use water-based lubricants, and of course, use protection with new sexual partners.���

If you have recurring vaginitis, please visit a doctor or healthcare provider.

NEXT READ: Why Women���s Nipples Hurt, According to Marion