A Late-30s Girl Walks Into Sephora…

Anyone who knows me knows I am low-maintenance when it comes to beauty and personal care products. My holy grail lineup? The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser (yasss, queen) and EltaMD's tinted, oil-free sunscreen (truly, the G.O.A.T. in my humble opinion).

I’ve always been an acne-girlie, so tretinoin and I have been BFFs for a longggg time. Because of that, I haven’t worried much about “anti-aging,” one of the very few perks of being perpetually acne-prone. But now that I’m in my late thirties, I’m starting to notice that a little under-eye cover-up could go a long way.

So today, I ventured into Sephora. Does that store give anyone else hives? Between the lighting, the endless shades, and the too-cool-for-me twenty-somethings, I felt wildly out of my depth. I stood in front of a wall of Kosas concealers, squinting at labels like “neutral olive” and “light medium cool,” wondering when shopping for makeup became an exercise in self-doubt.

A fellow millennial next to me laughed, equally overwhelmed. We bonded over our confusion, shrugged, and went on our separate ways — one (potentially matching) concealer richer, still none the wiser.

Walking out, I realized maybe that’s what getting older is like: figuring things out bit by bit, celebrating the small wins, and occasionally, standing in Sephora wondering how the hell you ended up there... all while letting yourself laugh through it.

Ask Clara: Why do women feel the need to look "good" all the time?

When IVF Moves from Whisper to Headline

When I went through IVF for the first time back in 2018, it felt like I was sneaking into a club no one wanted to admit existed. Every appointment was a quiet act of hope, whispered among those of us who’d memorized our hormone levels and learned to inject courage right alongside medication. Back then, it wasn’t dinner party conversation. It was survival.

So when I saw IVF in a presidential headline last week, I froze. Not because I suddenly trusted the system to get it right — but because, for once, the world was saying the quiet part out loud. IVF isn’t fringe. It’s family-building. And it’s about time the conversation reached the highest levels of government.

The announcement outlined steps that could actually make a difference: GONAL-F and other fertility medications will soon be available at discounted rates through TrumpRx.gov, with low- and middle-income women eligible for even deeper savings. IVF drugs will be manufactured in the U.S. for the first time, and employers now have a new pathway to offer standalone fertility benefits, a chance for families to access care more consistently.

Still, I felt that familiar tension. Between progress and performativity. Between access and eligibility. Between the visibility of IVF and the unease of who might still be left out.

And yet, there’s reason to hope. These steps signal a real shift in how society treats fertility: from whispered struggle to recognized need, from isolated hope to shared opportunity. We’re not done, and the work is still far from over, but for the first time, it feels like the light is staying on — and that’s a win worth celebrating.

Ask Clara: How long does IVF actually take?

Inconvenience Is the Price We Pay for Community

This weekend I hosted birthday parties for each of my twins… back-to-back.

It was exhausting, but also, so magical. That’s parenting in a nutshell, right? Messy joy. Organized chaos. Love layered with logistical nightmares.

It was the first year we did their parties separately, and it felt good to give each of them their own day to shine. Brooke’s was a full-blown Wicked moment (my Broadway obsession lives on), while Charlie’s was all baseball, all the time. Think: peanuts, Cracker Jacks, Big League Chew, and a small army of seven-year-old boys wielding wiffle ball bats.

Some parents dropped their kids and dashed off to run errands, but a few stuck around, and by the end, they kept saying how glad they were they stayed. We swapped stories, passed cupcakes, and cheered on our kids like we were at Game 7.

I saw somewhere on social media that “inconvenience is the price you pay for community,” and I’ve been feeling that more than ever lately. It’s so easy to prioritize efficiency — the Target run, the quiet car ride, the to-do list — over showing up for the small, chaotic moments that actually make us feel part of something bigger.

Because community rarely fits neatly into our schedules. It’s loud, messy, and almost always inconvenient. But it’s also where we laugh the hardest, feel the most seen, and remember we’re not doing this alone.

Ask Clara: Why is community so important for women's health?

Menopause: Puberty’s Older, Moodier Sister

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about what’s ahead: menopause feels like this mysterious next chapter everyone whispers about but no one fully explains. I’m not there yet, but as someone who writes about women’s health for a living, I can’t help noticing friends saying things like, “Why am I suddenly waking up drenched in sweat?” or “When did my metabolism just vanish?” It’s like puberty’s older, moodier sister has officially entered the group chat.

Turns out, they’re not imagining it. New research from ZOE (the largest study on menopause and nutrition to date!), paints menopause as a full-body plot twist. Post-menopausal women tend to have higher blood sugar, blood pressure, and body fat, along with worse sleep and stronger sugar cravings. In other words, it’s not just you — your metabolism really does change.

Here’s the practical part: while declining estrogen impacts how our bodies process glucose and store fat, there are ways to work with it. Women who focus on gut health (think fiber, whole grains, veggies, and fermented foods) saw better blood sugar and inflammation markers. Those using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) also fared better, with healthier blood fats and less belly fat. Small shifts, both on your plate and in your self-care, really do add up.

So if your jeans feel snug, your sweet tooth is raging, and your sleep is off, take a breath. You’re not “failing at wellness.” Your biology is evolving, and you can evolve with it.

Ask Clara: How can you support your metabolism as you head toward menopause?

Winning the Sister-in-Law Jackpot

This weekend, we visited my sister-in-law, and honestly… I think I hit the jackpot. She had my kids’ favorite snacks ready before they asked, let them make a mess (even though she’s the ultimate Type-A to my Type-B tendencies), and somehow kept her cool through all of it.

Was she overstimulated by the end? Absolutely. But here’s the magic: she could tell us honestly, without drama, because we’re that close. That kind of relationship is rare. Someone who can handle the chaos, be present for the fun, and still tell you when it’s a lot? Pure gold.

We laughed over our kids’ shenanigans, swapped stories about our bash-brother husbands, and somehow ended up on the couch debating clothing rental options (I’m a Nuuly fan, she’s a Fashion Pass girlie). And it hit me: friendship in your 30s isn’t just about shared hobbies or easy laughs. It’s about people who see the chaos without rolling their eyes and make life feel lighter just by being there.

In a generation that’s chronically online, connection like this feels even more precious. Being fully seen and heard in real life is rare, and it’s the kind of thing that actually makes life richer.

So, cherish the people who can handle your messy, loud, slightly chaotic life, and let yourself be that person for someone else, too.

Ask Clara: How do close friendships impact our emotional and physical well-being?

Breathing Through the Cleaning Frenzy

Does anyone else spend way too long staring at their shampoo and cleaning products, squinting at labels like they’re decoding ancient hieroglyphics? “Paraben-free! Sulfate-free! Fragrance-free… wait, not fragrance-free?” It's exhausting. If you’ve ever felt like buying “safe” household products is a full-time job, trust me, you’re not imagining it.

Here’s the kicker: a 20-year study found women who regularly used cleaning sprays lost lung function comparable to smoking 20 cigarettes a day for 20 years. Men? Not so much. Those little bottles of scented spray can quite literally take your breath away over time. Scientists suspect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in fragrances — chemicals that evaporate at room temperature and can irritate your lungs and airways — are the main culprits.

So how do you keep a home clean without turning it into a chemically “safe” fortress? I personally stick with Branch Basics — plant- and mineral-based, biodegradable, and fragrance-free. Once a month, I tackle a deep clean with the “good stuff,” and yes, my lungs notice. The key is reading beyond the marketing: “paraben-free” doesn’t mean “fragrance-free,” and “natural” doesn’t automatically equal safe. Fragrance-free or low-VOC formulas are your friends, and a HEPA air purifier helps too, reducing VOCs and supporting lung health.

We shouldn’t have to choose between a sparkling home and healthy lungs. Start by swapping one high-use spray for a safer option, and make fragrance-free your default. Small, deliberate changes add up, and your lungs will thank you later.

Ask Clara: What are some "clean" household products I can feel good about?

Blame It on the Full Moon

Apparently last week was a full moon, and suddenly everything makes sense. My ADHD was already running wild (see: previous entry), my period arrived out of nowhere, my mother-in-law had surgery, the kids were still adjusting to their new school, and we had to pack up our family of five to visit relatives a few states away. It was… a lot.

It’s funny how we can be completely unraveling one minute and then our period starts, and we’re like, oh, okay. Suddenly all the chaos has an explanation. Except this time, it was that moment multiplied by a thousand. The full moon energy made everything feel louder, heavier, more emotional. (Costar was not kidding when it warned me my lunar phase would be intense.)

As a Pisces, I feel everything a little too deeply on a normal day, but last week it felt like the moon had me on a string. My moods, my energy, and my sleep were all over the place. It was like the universe had turned the volume up on everything, and I was stuck listening.

I’m still not fully recovered, honestly. But I’m trying to give myself grace — to remember that sometimes everything just collides at once, and all we can do is the best we can with what we’ve got. It’s messy, unhinged, exhausting, and yet somehow… still manageable with the right amount of humor and patience.

Here’s to softer weeks ahead. And a little wisdom from the late Diane Keaton to carry with me: "Choosing the freedom to be uninteresting never quite worked for me."

Ask Clara: How can I manage hormonal mood swings (without losing my mind)?

No One Talks About Friend Grief

My beautiful friend Lisa was just 31 when she passed away from triple-negative breast cancer. She loved life more than anyone I’ve ever known. She had more friends than anyone I know, too, and somehow made each of us feel like we were her favorite. Lisa was a firecracker: bold, hilarious, and unfiltered, but also deeply kind. Her laugh filled every room, and I think that’s what I miss most, but honestly, there’s so much I miss.

I once heard that adult friendships are the ones you choose, not the ones you simply grew up with. Lisa was one of my best choices. Losing her so young — right when our lives were just getting started — felt especially cruel. Five years later, I still catch myself thinking of things I want to text her: a dumb meme, a random life update, something that would’ve made her laugh. Then I remember I can’t, and my chest tightens all over again. 

No one really prepares you for this kind of grief, the loss of a friend who shaped so much of who you are. We talk about family loss, romantic heartbreak, even losing a pet. But friend grief? It’s quieter. It hides in the cracks of everyday life.

Throughout her cancer battle, Lisa kept asking one question: “When can I fly again?” Even during chemo, surgery, and radiation, she dreamed of seeing the world with the people she loved. That spirit lives on through The Lisa Marzullo Fly Again Foundation, which honors her memory by giving women battling breast cancer the chance to experience life-changing trips.

Lisa’s story also reminds us that breast cancer doesn’t discriminate. It can affect young women — women with plans, group chats, and futures still unfolding. I talk about her, even when it hurts. Because keeping her memory alive feels like the only way to keep our friendship going. 

Ask Clara: How does breast cancer impact young women?

Defying Gravity (Again)

Fun fact about me: I collect Broadway playbills. If I had to guess, I have at least fifty, spanning everything from The Sound of Music revival in 1998 to Rent (my all-time favorite) in the mid-2000s, to Hamilton in my late twenties, where I coincidentally sat right behind Lin-Manuel Miranda and his son. Best. Birthday. Ever.

Now I have a daughter, every bit as dramatic (in the best possible way) and an aspiring theatre kid through and through. Last year, when Wicked hit theaters, she was rapt for the entire film — wide-eyed, mouthing along to “Defying Gravity” — while her best friend fell asleep beside her. I had this quiet moment of recognition: Oh, I gave birth to myself.

We’ve been counting down the days until Part Two comes out, but in the meantime she’s channeling all that Wicked energy into her birthday party. Think “Popular” friendship bracelets, green and pink balloons, glittery cupcakes, and the soundtrack playing on repeat. And yes, she will be wearing a full Glinda costume: tulle, tiara, wand, and all. (She’s seven.)

Honestly, I’m not sure who’s more excited — me or her.

I saw somewhere that being in your thirties is all about rediscovering what you loved as a kid. But motherhood feels like that too, watching your favorite stories come alive again, this time through someone else’s eyes.

Ask Clara: Why is it important for women to have hobbies?

When My Hormones Hijack My Brain

After reading Rich Girl Nation, I went on a spending freeze for more than two months. No impulse buys. No late-night cart fills. Not even a nail appointment. I was feeling smug, like maybe I’d finally cracked my ADHD spending habits.

Then last week happened. Suddenly I was clicking “add to cart,” signing up for discount codes, and convincing myself every email coupon was urgent. Then my period arrived, on cycle day 46 (but that’s a story for another day), and it hit me: Oh. It’s not just my ADHD. It’s my hormones, too. 

The week before and during my period, my ADHD feels like it’s on steroids. Executive dysfunction becomes my default setting. Impulsiveness skyrockets. And my sensory overload? Off the charts. It’s like if my house isn’t cleaned right now, I might actually lose my mind. (Case in point: at 3 a.m. I ordered a Bissell Mini Green Machine and spent the next day deep-cleaning both couches. Who has time for that? Apparently me, during my luteal phase.)

And I’m not alone. Research shows that hormonal fluctuations can worsen ADHD symptoms in women. A review in Frontiers in Global Women’s Health notes that many women with ADHD experience increased irritability, mood swings, and cognitive symptoms during the luteal phase.

Seeing the pattern doesn’t erase the chaos, but it does change how I experience it. Knowing my brain and hormones are interacting turns moments that once felt like failure into moments of insight. It doesn’t make them easier — but it does make me feel a little less bad when I’m clicking “unsubscribe” and returning a pile of stuff I don't need. And that feels like progress.

Ask Clara: What is the luteal phase?

In Defense of Taylor

Full disclosure: I don’t really identify as a Swiftie. It’s not that I don’t love Taylor’s music; I’ve been a fan since the Tim McGraw and Teardrops on My Guitar days. I specifically remember being on the way to a college internship, mourning a recent breakup, and listening to Back to December on repeat. She’s insanely talented. I just…don’t worship celebrities the way some people do. There, I said it.

That said, her most recent album, The Life of a Showgirl, is very Taylor. Like, actually very Taylor. Have you listened to 1989 or Speak Now? The storytelling, the confessional lyrics, the emotional rollercoaster — it’s all here. Despite what fairweather ERA fans might say, this isn’t a sellout or a pivot; it’s her doing exactly what she does best.

And while we’re at it: celebrities don’t owe us their lives (or their art). Not Taylor, not anyone. Call me an empath, but even with her two-billion-dollar empire, her privacy is basically nonexistent. Let her have her happiness… and her fiancé’s giant pee pee.

Listening to this album made me think about the way music follows us through life — how it remembers heartbreaks, friendships, and late-night confessions alongside us. For me (and so many others), Taylor’s songs have always been that friend who gets it, even when the world doesn’t. And to all of the haters: it was never that serious.

Ask Clara: How did Taylor Swift's tour impact perceptions of girlhood?

Big Hair Care Energy (Side Part Intact)

I'm not gonna lie: until recently, I never really thought much about hair care. I’ve always had thick, shiny hair, and I coasted on that. Shampoo, conditioner, maybe a brush if I remembered — that was my whole routine. No masks, no scalp serums, no detox treatments. Healthy-looking hair kind of just… happened.

But after three babies, my late-30s hair is staging a revolt. From postpartum shedding to an itchy scalp that showed up about six months in, it’s been humbling, to say the least.

One sleepless night, I started Googling and discovered a whole world of scalp care: shampoos that “detox,” serums that “restore,” scrubs that “stimulate.” Trust me, I know the haircare industry just wants to make money off me. But if a product here and there makes me feel better (and less itchy), I’m okay with it. Meanwhile, I’m standing here with my CeraVe and my $8 drugstore shampoo, realizing scalp care is apparently the new skincare, and somehow I missed the memo.

Listen, I don’t expect miracles, but there’s something exciting about taking five minutes for me, to care for this part of myself I’ve always ignored. Motherhood has a way of teaching you that even the smallest rituals (the masks, the serums, the pumpkin-spice latte runs) can feel like little acts of reclamation. Simple reminders that I’m still me, under all the giving.

Will I ever fully master hair care? Probably not. Will I ever give up my side part? Definitely not. But maybe, just maybe, I’ll find a happy medium between my low-maintenance roots and this new world of scalp TLC.

Ask Clara: Is there a way to stop postpartum hair loss?

The Conversations We’re Not Supposed to Have

This morning, I was at the bus stop, scrolling and half-lost in thought, when one of the moms casually mentioned her recent surgery. Ten minutes later, we were knee-deep in a conversation about IVF cycles, endometriosis, and PCOS — basically all the things no one really plans to unpack at 8 a.m. on a sidewalk. And yet, there we were, swapping stories like old friends.

A few hours later, at my favorite little boutique, it happened again. One offhand comment about me giving birth nine months ago turned into a twenty-minute back-and-forth on fertility struggles, menopause, and the weird ways our bodies can betray us.

It always amazes me how quickly opening up can transform a passing moment into something real. There’s something quietly radical about admitting struggle in spaces where you could just smile, nod, and move on. It’s messy, sometimes awkward, but it’s also freeing. When you share, you break isolation. You remind yourself you’re not the only one. You turn strangers into allies, even if just for a few minutes.

Another reminder? Every woman has a story. Every body is different. And truthfully, it’s often more likely for things to go wrong than for everything to go perfectly right. That doesn’t make us broken; it just makes us human.

So, here’s to opening up, to having the messy conversations, and to the connections that linger long after the moment has passed.

Ask Clara: How common are fertility issues?

Cycle Syncing Isn’t Magic ~ It’s Self-Awareness

Women’s health is nuanced. Hormones shift, energy ebbs and flows, and every body is different. And yet, every time a new trend hits social media, suddenly everyone’s an expert. Case in point: cycle syncing.

We teamed up with The Gist, and reactions were… intense. Some treated it like gospel; others insisted science has “debunked” it. The truth? It probably falls somewhere in between.

Cycle syncing is the idea that your workouts, meals, and self-care can follow your menstrual phases: menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal. Some people swear by it — tracking energy, scheduling high-intensity workouts when estrogen peaks, slowing down when PMS hits — because hormones really can influence energy, recovery, and how hard a workout feels.

But the research? It’s mixed. A 2020 review of 46 studies found some women fatigue less in the luteal phase, others in the follicular. Results vary depending on exercise type, muscle groups, and how phases are measured. Translation: your body might not match the “textbook," and that’s totally fine.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

~Menstrual: Gentle yoga, walking, restorative stuff (Netflix optional).
~Follicular: Higher-intensity workouts, strength training, longer runs.
~Ovulatory: Peak performance possible — HIIT, powerlifting, sprints — but watch those joints.
~Luteal: Lower-intensity cardio, pilates, mobility, recovery work.

Cycle syncing isn’t a strict rulebook. It’s a tool to notice patterns, stay consistent, and make exercise feel a little more supportive. Some days you'll crush it. Some days you'll lounge on the couch with a heating pad. Both are fine. The real win? Learning to trust your body, honor its signals, and move in a way that actually feels good — because that’s how lasting fitness, energy, and self-care happen.

Ask Clara: How do hormones fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle?

Childhood Toys Aren’t Just Toys

Remember Furbys? Those creepy-cute, wide-eyed little creatures from the ’90s that somehow managed to feel both adorable and slightly possessed? I begged my parents for one in middle school and was convinced it would change my life. Instead, it woke me up at 2 a.m. screaming “kah-tah!” in some gibberish language, and my mom eventually had to hide it in the closet.

Fast forward to today, and my kids are obsessed with Labubus — the plush, big-eyed critters popping up all over social media. Full circle moment: their Labubus are now in the closet, too. Not because they’re haunted (yet), but because I nearly scared my children to death telling them a bedtime story about how Labubus “protect them at night.” (Thanks a lot, ChatGPT.) Needless to say, the Labubus have been banished to storage, right next to the Furby of my youth.

But here’s the thing: every generation has that toy. The one that feels magical, a little unsettling, and absolutely essential to surviving the playground social scene. For me, it was Furbys. For some, it was Tamagotchis, Beanie Babies, or Silly Bandz. The toy itself was fun, sure, but the real magic was belonging — having something to talk about, trade, or compare with friends.

So when your kid insists their life won’t be complete without a Labubu, remember: it’s not just about the plush. It’s about connection, nostalgia, and maybe even laughing at how history really does repeat itself...one toy at a time.

Ask Clara: What are the signs of ADHD in women?

Photo source: https://depressed-furby.tumblr.com/

Supplements Don’t Have to Be Hard

If you’ve ever felt like women’s health is one big guessing game, you’re not alone. I’ve walked out of the doctor’s office more times than I can count with a head full of questions and zero clear answers. Between the hormonal ups and downs of birth control, the exhaustion that comes with postpartum recovery, and the fatigue of Hashimoto’s, I’ve learned that sometimes the only way to figure out your body is to experiment, track what’s happening, jot down allll your questions… and yes, maybe try supplements along the way.

That’s why I turned to Derek Flanzraich, founder of HEALTHYISH and the popular newsletter 5HT, who’s spent years cutting through the noise around supplements. Here's his take:

Lupita & Mandy Making Health Talk Feel Normal

I caught a feature on Lupita Nyong’o and Mandy Moore talking about women’s health research, and I felt both inspired and oddly comforted. Inspired because they’re using their visibility to highlight gaps in research that affect women every day. Comforted because, honestly, they’re just like us: navigating health struggles, advocating for their families, and figuring it out as they go.

Lupita shared her experience with fibroids, a painful condition where noncancerous growths form on the uterus. Symptoms like heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and back discomfort can be debilitating. “I was so stunned by how little my doctor could tell me about this condition,” she said. “I felt so helpless… I felt very isolated in my condition.” That frustration lit a fire: normalizing women’s pain is unacceptable, and she’s determined to advocate so future generations don’t face the same casual ignorance.

Meanwhile, Mandy — our A Walk to Remember girl-next-door turned This Is Us mom — opened up about her fertility journey, including a misdiagnosis of endometriosis, and being told something was “wrong” with her reproductive health. Raising her children amplified her drive: “Since becoming a mother, it’s so much easier to advocate on behalf of myself and my children and the future generations,” she explained. “It's such a no-brainer to be able to use this crazy platform that a job I love has sort of given me."

It’s wild to think women weren’t included in clinical research until 1993, and today only 8% of research funding goes to women’s health, despite women making up 51% of the population. Even as stars, Lupita and Mandy are showing us that visibility, advocacy, and courage can turn personal struggle into progress, and that women’s health deserves attention every day, not just when it’s trending.

Ask Clara: What is the gender research gap?

photo source: ABC News

Influencers' Lives Aren't Real

I remember sitting in my middle school bedroom in the ’90s, flipping through Seventeen magazine, staring at models with perfect hair, perfect clothes, and perfect lives, and thinking: "Why can’t I be like that?" Fast forward to now, and instead of glossy magazines, it’s Instagram feeds full of women who somehow bake sourdough, run DIY projects, do yoga, and post it all before 10 a.m. — while I’m over here trying to find my kids' matching socks and get them to the bus stop on time. The caption? “Just living my best life, so grateful!” I often put down my phone and think: Yeah, right.

That’s exactly the point Jo Piazza makes in Everyone Is Lying to You. The book dives into the influencer world, exposing how much of what we see online is carefully constructed. Every “spontaneous” post, every “authentic” video, is designed to grow a following... and sell something. Your feed isn’t lying to you because you’re imagining things; it’s lying because it’s literally built to.

And yet, Piazza doesn’t just dunk on these women. She admires them. Many of these influencers are running six- and seven-figure businesses, managing marketing, content, partnerships, and a relentless schedule, all while keeping up appearances. That takes brains, grit, and strategy, whether or not the life behind the lens is “real.”

So, what’s the takeaway for the rest of us scrolling at 11 p.m.? Admire the hustle if you want, but don’t compare your messy living room or leftover takeout dinner to a perfectly staged highlight reel. Your life is real. Your wins are real. And your self-worth doesn’t need a filter.

Ask Clara: How do I stop comparing myself to others?

The Cold That Made Me Appreciate Wellness

I’m on day eight of what can only be described as the world’s longest cold. Usually, I like to brag about my “amazing” immune system (irony alert: I also have an autoimmune condition), but this virus has humbled me. I’ve spent the past week juggling tissues, tea, and an embarrassingly large collection of cough drops, all while whispering to myself, "this too shall pass."

Along the way, I’ve learned there’s always something new to know about our bodies (thanks to my PCP, who patiently walked me through it all). Take the neti pot, for example: once the holy grail of sinus relief, it’s no longer recommended for routine use because flushing too often can trick your body into thinking it needs more mucus, making congestion feel worse instead of better. And antibiotics? They won’t prevent or speed up most colds, and taking them unnecessarily can harm your gut microbiome, leaving you more vulnerable to other infections. The best strategies? Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter symptom relief.

If you’re slogging through the tail end of a cold, remember: your body is doing its job. Viruses are tricky, your immune system is complex, and sometimes a little patience and self-care is all it takes to tip the scales back in your favor. Cozy socks, warm tea, and letting yourself truly rest aren’t indulgences; they’re essential.

Ask Clara: What are some low-intensity exercises for when you're not feeling the best?

Kindness Isn't Just Cute — It's Healthy

You know that sinking feeling after scrolling Instagram for 20 minutes and realizing everyone else’s life is “perfect”? That happened to me just last week. I was staring at a feed full of moms flawlessly juggling work, toddlers, and gluten-free muffins, and I caught myself comparing it to my own messy kitchen and half-drunk coffee. Between curated workout posts, endless wellness tips, and highlight reels of seemingly effortless parenting, I suddenly felt mentally drained and low-key inadequate. Honestly, it’s not doing our stress levels any favors.

But here's the twist: real-life good — checking in on a friend, helping a neighbor, volunteering — actually lowers stress, improves heart health, and boosts mood. And unlike scrolling, it comes with measurable health perks.

Science backs it up: acts of kindness reduce cortisol (that pesky stress hormone) and can even strengthen your immune system. No filters, no hashtags, no likes required. Just real human connection.

Scrolling won’t fix anxiety, but sending a thoughtful message, holding a door, or helping someone without expecting anything back? That actually works. In a world of curated routines and “perfect” parenting moments, kindness is something tangible you can control, and it actually improves your health.

Social media might make you feel small, anxious, or inadequate, but being a genuinely good human offline? That’s a stress-busting, mood-boosting win every single day.

Ask Clara: What are some tips for managing stress and anxiety?

The Pain We’re Told to Push Through

You know that moment when your head is pounding, the lights feel too bright, and someone casually suggests you “just take some Advil”? Cute, but no. For millions of women, migraine isn’t just a headache — it’s a full-body takeover. It hijacks your focus, your plans, your relationships, even how you feel about yourself.

And here’s the part no one talks about: intimacy. In Rescripted's recent survey with Pfizer, 98% of people with migraine said it affects their sex life or relationships, yet only 1 in 5 have ever mentioned it to their doctor. That silence leaves too many women carrying guilt, turning down sex, canceling plans, or pretending everything’s fine while craving connection. 

Hormones only make things more complicated. Migraines often flare around periods, pregnancy, and menopause — the exact times we’re already told to “just deal with it.” If men experienced migraine at the same rate, we’d probably be calling it a public health crisis. Instead, women are expected to quietly power through.

Here’s the truth: you don’t have to minimize your pain or your needs. Migraine deserves space in the conversation, with your partner, your friends, and your doctor. Talking about it isn’t oversharing; it’s advocating for yourself. And that’s not just self-care; it’s strength.

Ask Clara: How do I know when to see a migraine specialist?

From Couch Potato to Home Workout Hero

Confession: I used to think “home workouts” meant rolling out of bed and doing a single stretch before my coffee. Now? I’m a full blown workout-from-home enthusiast. The gym has never really been my thing; I’d so much rather roll out my mat in the living room, throw on leggings (or let’s be honest, pajamas), and press play. No commute, no waiting for equipment, no pressure — just me, my space, and movement that fits into my life.

Home workouts aren’t about being perfect; they’re about consistency. And that’s backed by science: studies show that the biggest factor in seeing results isn’t where you work out, it's how often you show up. For me, these workouts have become stress relief, my reset button, and the one form of self-care I’ve actually stuck with. 

Here are my go-tos:

Sydney Cummings Houdyshell (YouTube) ~  Sydney is like that friend who pushes you just enough without being overbearing. Her free library is endless, so I can always find something whether I have 10 minutes or an hour.

The Peloton App (Strength Classes) ~ You don’t need the bike to love Peloton. Their strength classes are fun, effective, and led by trainers who somehow make me laugh mid-burpee.

Fit with Coco (Pilates x Strength) ~ Coco combines the slow burn of Pilates with sculpting strength moves. They’re equipment-light, creative, and leave me shaking in the best way.

At the end of the day, home workouts aren’t glamorous, but they’re realistic and sustainable. Strength training matters — supporting bones, metabolism, mental health, and overall well-being. For me, it’s less about motivation and more about carving out any space to move and care for myself. And if I can do it, so can you.

Ask Clara: Why is strength training important for women?

Stuff No One Tells You About Your Pelvic Floor

I didn’t think twice about my pelvic floor until after I had my twins. Honestly, before that, I didn’t even know it existed. But I’ll never forget being at a wedding a few months postpartum, dancing barefoot in the middle of the reception hall, and suddenly realizing I couldn’t jump. Or more accurately, I shouldn’t jump — because if I did, I might pee a little.

Fast forward to life after baby number three, and things had flipped: sometimes I couldn’t pee at all, even when I really needed to. That’s when I realized something we don’t talk about enough: pelvic floor problems aren’t just about leaks. Sometimes it’s trouble going, pain, or even constipation.

Think of your pelvic floor as the team of muscles “down there” keeping everything in place. When it’s weak, you might leak, feel heavy, or notice pain during sex. When it’s tight, peeing can be tricky, and sex or movement might hurt. And yes, sometimes it’s a little of both at once.

A recent Rescripted survey found that 30% of women have never even tried pelvic floor exercises, and almost a quarter didn’t know what they were. Only 2% learned about them from a provider. That has to change.

Pelvic floor health matters at every stage of life. If your body is sending confusing signals, you’re not imagining it, and you’re definitely not alone. The right support, like pelvic floor physical therapy, can be a total game-changer.

Ask Clara: How can I tell if my pelvic floor is weak, tight, or both?

The Cramps We Thought Were "Normal"

Let’s be real: periods are a pain. For some, it’s an Advil-and-heating-pad situation. For others, it’s can’t-get-out-of-bed misery. I’ll never forget a friend in high school who missed class every month because her cramps were that bad. Back then, we just thought she had “bad periods.” Now, I know better.

There’s a name for it: dysmenorrhea — the medical term for painful periods. Primary dysmenorrhea is caused by prostaglandins (chemicals that make your uterus contract to shed its lining). Annoying, yes, but usually harmless. Secondary dysmenorrhea, though, signals something else might be going on: endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease. And it can be debilitating. 

Here’s the shocking part: research shows it takes 7–10 years on average to get a diagnosis of endometriosis. That’s nearly a decade of living with pain because too many of us are told it’s “normal.” Spoiler alert: extreme, life-disrupting period pain is not normal.

So how do you know if your cramps need a closer look? Red flags include pain radiating down your legs, nausea, fatigue, or pain that stops you from living your daily life. If that’s you, you’re not being dramatic — your body is asking for attention.

You deserve care that takes your pain seriously. If one provider dismisses you, find another. Advocate until you feel heard. Periods may be common, but suffering through them shouldn’t be.

Ask Clara: How do I know if my period pain is a sign of endometriosis or another condition?

The Pill Was Never Just About Pregnancy

When I first went on the pill, it wasn’t for birth control. Like a lot of teenagers, my periods were unpredictable — sometimes disappearing for months at a time (was ghosting even a thing in 2007?!). My doctor prescribed the pill to “regulate my cycle,” and at the time, I just nodded and hoped it worked. Years later, I learned those irregular periods were actually PCOS.

And I'm far from alone. A 2011 Guttmacher study found 58% of women on the pill use it for non-contraceptive reasons — everything from acne to painful periods. Clearly, it does a lot more than just prevent pregnancy. For women with PCOS, it’s often the first step in managing unpredictable cycles and symptoms like excess hair growth or breakouts.

Of course, it’s not perfect. Side effects are real, and it’s not for everyone. But the narrative that “the pill ruins your hormones” oversimplifies the truth. For many of us, it was the first real tool we had to feel a little more in control of our bodies — like finally finding the instruction manual for something that had always felt broken.

Here’s the thing: birth control is healthcare. Using it thoughtfully isn’t frivolous; it’s smart self-care. And sometimes, it’s the first step toward finally getting answers.

Ask Clara: Can birth control help with PCOS symptoms or irregular periods?

Let’s Talk About What’s Really Happening in Our Bodies

Hi! I’m Kristyn Hodgdon, Co-Founder of Rescripted, and a millennial woman who’s basically made a career out of trying to understand her own body. Between fertility treatments, two pregnancies, postpartum recovery, and the hormonal rollercoaster that is PCOS, I’ve learned one thing for sure: women’s health information is way too confusing, stigmatized, or hidden in some obscure corner of the internet you only find at 2 a.m.

That’s why I created Girlhood.

Think of this as the group chat we should have had all along — the one where we can actually talk about what’s happening in our bodies. No sugarcoating, no shame, just real talk about the symptoms we whisper about, the questions we can’t believe we’re Googling, and the stuff we wish someone had told us sooner.

I’ll share my own stories (the awkward ones too), insights from the Rescripted community, and science-backed info from trusted experts. But Girlhood isn’t just about biology — it’s about the culture around it. We’ll unpack wellness trends, debunk bad advice, revisit the nostalgic “tips” we grew up with, and connect it all to what’s shaping women’s health right now.

Because you shouldn’t need a PhD, or a search history full of late-night panic Googles, to understand your own body (or to navigate the world around it).

My hope? That each entry leaves you feeling a little more seen, a little more informed, and a lot more empowered to take the lead in your own self-care. From mood swings to cramps, bloating to burnout, this space is for us.

So, welcome to Girlhood, where we’re finally talking about the things that really matter.

Ask Clara: How can I understand my hormones and cycle better?