The 5 Most Googled Women’s Health Questions - Answered (Is Yours Here?)

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Let’s be honest, most of us have Googled something about our bodies in panic at least once a day (okay, 40 times). And while WebMD is out here convincing us otherwise, the truth is: women’s health is way more nuanced, way less talked about, and wildly under-researched.

So, we’re breaking down the top 5 most-Googled women’s health questions - plus the actual answers.

1. Why is my period late if I’m not pregnant?

Short answer: Your body is not robotic.
Long answer: Stress, travel, intense workouts, coming off birth control, under-eating, PCOS, thyroid issues - there are a lot of reasons your cycle might shift. Don’t spiral, a late period doesn’t automatically mean something’s wrong but if your cycle continues to be all over the place for more than 2-3 months, it’s time to check in with your GP (and maybe track your cycle with more than just vibes).

2. How do I know if I have PCOS?

Spoiler: It’s actually not just about cysts.
The name is misleading. PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is really a hormonal condition that can cause irregular periods, acne, hair growth in places you didn’t ask for, and struggles with ovulation. Diagnosis usually involves a combination of symptom history, hormone testing, and ultrasound - not just one thing.  So if something feels off, advocate for testing. You’re not being “dramatic.”

3. Can you get pregnant on your period?

Short answer: Yes, but it’s pretty rare.
Long answer: Sperm can live in your body for up to 5 days so if you have a short cycle and ovulate soon after your period, it is possible. Not likely, but possible. If you’re not planning on pregnancy, don’t just assume period sex is a free pass.

4. Why does it hurt down there after sex?

If it’s a one-off thing, it could be friction, dryness, or lack of arousal (aka, you weren’t ready yet). But if it’s happening regularly, it could point to something like vaginismus, endometriosis, an infection, or hormone shifts (hi, postpartum and perimenopause). If in doubt, always seek advice from a medical professional.

5. How do I boost fertility naturally?

Our favourite question at OVA.  Start with the basics and set your fertility foundations.  Eat enough of the good stuff - think rainbow and mediterranean diet.  Try and attempt to get enough sleep, the good quality kind.  Easy to say we know but try and cut stressors down where you can - if it ain't serving you let go of it.  Track your cycle to know when and if you ovulate.  And yes, get a good quality prenatal, these nutrients matter. Think: folate, choline, omega-3s, vitamin D, and more. (Hi, OVA.)