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鈥檛, 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鈥檛 start healing until I simplified my routine and stopped following every 鈥渟kincare rule鈥� 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. 鈥淚f you have oily skin, you don鈥檛 need moisturiser鈥濃�� 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. 鈥淗igher price means better product. Expensive cream = clear skin鈥� 鈥� 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 鈧�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鈥檛 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. 鈥淣o need to go to a dermatologist, just know your skin type and find products that have the skin type tag鈥� 鈥� 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 鈥渢ypes鈥�, 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. 鈥淵ou only need sunscreen on sunny days鈥� 鈥� 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. 鈥淒rinking lots of water hydrates your skin enough鈥� 鈥� 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. 鈥淣atural ingredients are always safer or better, and gentler than clinical treatments鈥� 鈥� 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鈥檛 poison ivy or 鈥渨erepe鈥� natural? Safety comes from proper testing, not just from being 鈥渘atural鈥� or unprocessed.

7. 鈥淏lack/darker skin doesn鈥檛 need sunscreen鈥� 鈥� 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鈥檚 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.

You’ll Love: Why Nigerian Women Still Need Sunscreen, According to Olapeju

8. 鈥淵our skin gets used to a product, so it stops working鈥� 鈥� 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. 鈥淓xfoliating every day makes skin clearer and smoother鈥濃�� 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. 鈥淩etinol thins the skin permanently鈥� 鈥� 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. 鈥淗ome/DIY hacks (toothpaste, lemon, baking soda) will clear pimples and popping them helps them heal faster鈥� 鈥� 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. 鈥淐oconut oil or heavy oils are safe for everyone鈥� 鈥� 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. 鈥淧roducts sold in stores or markets are automatically safe鈥� 鈥� 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. 鈥淏leaching creams recommended by friends/influencers are harmless鈥� 鈥� 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. 鈥淒ark spots will go away if you scrub harder or use strong acids frequently鈥� 鈥� 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. 鈥淵ou must lighten your skin to remove acne marks quickly. Fairer skin is more beautiful anyway, so good!鈥� 鈥� 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鈥檛 require lightening your skin tone. Beauty comes in every shade!

Dr. Olufolakemi Cole-Adeife is a consultant dermatologist and one of Nigeria鈥檚 most passionate voices for healthy, beautiful skin 鈥� 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

鈥淪ex while high is amazing,鈥� Lisa tells 91大神. The 36-year-old didn鈥檛 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鈥檚 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鈥檚 someone like Tope, 28: 鈥淚 just get sleepy or anxious. Once, I fully dissociated during sex after smoking. Never again.鈥�

Google 鈥渨eed and orgasms鈥� or 鈥渃annabis and sex,鈥� and you鈥檒l 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鈥檛 a new topic. But despite all the anecdotes, there still isn鈥檛 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鈥檚 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 鈥� 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 鈥渉igh.鈥� 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鈥檚 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鈥� 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鈥檚 pleasure, intimacy, or sexual arousal?

Senami shares that 鈥淵ohimbe (Pausinystalia johimbe), White鈥檚 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.鈥�

She also explains that cannabis plays a historic and spiritual role in sexuality. 鈥淢any 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.鈥�

Can cannabis impact sexual pleasure or orgasm for women?

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

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

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

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

Do you think the claim that 鈥渨eed makes sex better鈥� 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.

鈥淲hen this plant (or any herbs for that matter) is intentionally used rather than recreationally used, there is potential for wonderful and healing sex,鈥� she explains. 鈥淔rom 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.鈥�

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. 鈥淚t can help people drop into their bodies and tune into their partner,鈥� she says.

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

Do people overestimate or underestimate its effects?

鈥淏oth, actually,鈥� Halima says. 鈥淧eople often overestimate cannabis as a sexual panacea, expecting it to transform their experience dramatically. In reality, cannabis tends to amplify existing states.鈥� 

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

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

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

鈥淎nything can be poison with the wrong intentions, even plants,鈥� Senami warns. 鈥淭hroughout 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.鈥�

What should people know before trying cannabis for sexual enhancement?

鈥淪et and setting matter,鈥� Halima says. 鈥淵our headspace, your environment, your dynamic with your partner all shape the experience.鈥�

She recommends starting with a low dose and having clear communication beforehand about boundaries and expectations. And don鈥檛 assume a one-time try will reveal everything: 鈥淐annabis 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鈥檛 mean you need to become a regular user. It just means managing expectations.鈥�

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

She adds, 鈥淚n 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.鈥�

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

The takeaway

Weed isn鈥檛 a guaranteed orgasm cheat code and it鈥檚 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鈥檚 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鈥檚 unique needs. It鈥檚 not a miracle fix or a one-size-fits-all solution. It鈥檚 a plant. One with potential, yes, but not a replacement for emotional safety, trust or communication. 

So, if you鈥檙e curious about trying weed in bed, start slow, do your research, and listen to your body. Your orgasm isn鈥檛 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鈥檛 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 鈥渮obo鈥� causes miscarriages, we just had to ask: Is this a myth, or is this claim backed by science? We鈥檝e got answers.

First off, what鈥檚 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鈥檚 well-known for some medicinal qualities 鈥� antioxidant, anti-hypertensive and anti-obesity.

ALSO READ:聽10+ Benefits of Cloves Sexually for Men & Women

Does it really cause miscarriages?

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

鈥淭he research is sparse, but a show that hibiscus sabdariffa 鈥� the zobo leaves 鈥� might stimulate uterine contraction and contribute to maternal malnutrition. You might think, 鈥淏ut we aren鈥檛 rats鈥�. However, it鈥檚 an indicator that it may be unsafe for pregnant women. 

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

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

What about the women who didn鈥檛 miscarry after taking zobo?

Dr Ojo confirms that this happens too.

鈥淟ike 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鈥檝e personally seen at least one related case. I usually suggest that it鈥檚 a risk you鈥檙e better off not taking. You have the rest of your life to drink it; nine months won鈥檛 do anything.鈥�

Could pineapples be the problem?

Pineapple, an important ingredient in most zobo drinks, contains an enzyme called , which is believed to cause uterine contractions 鈥� the 鈥渃ramps鈥� 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鈥檛 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鈥檚 safe to take pineapples while pregnant.

The takeaway

Zobo may not be the culprit in most miscarriages, but research shows it鈥檚 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 鈥� relationships, even 鈥� 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鈥檚 not uncommon for people to claim that facial hair in women is a sign of masculinity, 鈥渨ickedness鈥�, 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?

鈥淚鈥檝e heard the funniest beliefs about facial hair; how it indicates riches, wickedness, infertility, or that it means the women would beat their husbands,鈥� Henrietta says.

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

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

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.

鈥淪ome people are just naturally hairy. Sparse hair growth on the chin, for example, doesn鈥檛 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.鈥�

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

In a word, no. Henrietta explains further.

鈥淣ot all facial hair is related to hormonal imbalance, and it doesn鈥檛 indicate masculinity. But when facial hair is caused by hirsutism, the person has high testosterone levels. This doesn鈥檛 always represent a serious medical problem, but if it does, it鈥檒l have to be investigated and managed.

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

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

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

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

Should you be worried?

鈥淲hile 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鈥檚 necessary to rule out any potential or underlying health issue,鈥� Henrietta notes.

Do you need to see a doctor?

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

鈥淭he clinician needs to confirm that the underlying condition that caused the hirsutism, if any, isn鈥檛 harmful to the person. For example, while facial hair growth doesn鈥檛 mean the woman has Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), it鈥檚 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鈥檛 mean the patient is losing her femininity.鈥�

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.

鈥淪ystemic 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.鈥�

The takeaway

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

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

NEXT READ: Talk True: Can Sex 鈥淟oosen鈥� the Vagina?

Our society鈥檚 obsession with vaginas should be the stuff of documentaries at this point. Every market day, you鈥檒l 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鈥檚 not that, it鈥檚 people touting the wonders of 鈥渧agina tightening鈥� creams to battle loose vaginas. It definitely begs the question: Can 鈥渢oo much鈥� 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鈥檚 important to know if the vagina can even be said to become loose. Mary explains that it can feel less elastic.

鈥淭he 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鈥檚 highly elastic, and some factors like ageing, which comes with lower , can cause the vagina to become drier and less elastic.鈥�

So, technically, 鈥渓oose鈥� isn鈥檛 the accurate term, as the vagina doesn鈥檛 completely lose its stretch. It just becomes less elastic than before.

So, can sex loosen it?

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

鈥淪ex is not enough to destroy the muscles of the vagina to the point where it loses its elasticity. It鈥檚 simply incapable.鈥�

Here鈥檚 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鈥檚 elasticity: Childbirth and age.

鈥淒uring childbirth, the muscles of the vagina stretch considerably to accommodate the baby鈥檚 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.鈥�

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鈥檚 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 鈥渢ight鈥� again?

We鈥檝e determined that the vagina doesn鈥檛 exactly become 鈥渓oose鈥�, so it can鈥檛 be said to be 鈥渢ight鈥� either, unless you鈥檙e 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.

鈥淚n the event that childbirth contributes to weakened vaginal muscles, help strengthen the pelvic floor, and tighten the muscles around the vagina. They鈥檙e 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 鈥渧agina tightening鈥� creams and gels marketed by so-called wellness experts work as well, Mary responds in the negative.

鈥淲hat most of these creams and gels do is dry out the mucosal lining of the vagina, thereby decreasing lubrication. Without lubrication, there鈥檇 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鈥檚 absent, users of these creams may experience temporary swelling of the vaginal tissues from friction which is termed to be 鈥渢ightening鈥� but is short-lived.

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

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鈥檚 vagina being 鈥渨ide鈥� because she鈥檚 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鈥檛 rank high on popular refreshment choices, but it鈥檚 a hit in the online feminine wellness space.

Here鈥檚 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鈥檚 a urinary tract infection?

As the name implies, it鈥檚 a bacterial infection of any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. In women, it鈥檚 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鈥檚 important to note that while sex can cause bacteria to move further into the urinary system, UTIs aren鈥檛 contagious/sexually transmitted infections.

You know what鈥檒l be contagious, though? The amount of fun you鈥檒l have at HERtitude 鈥� 91大神鈥檚 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鈥檚 鈥渢aste鈥� 鈥� even though . But Mary explains the flaw in this logic.

鈥淯TIs 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鈥檚 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鈥檛 infect the mucosal surface, thus preventing an infection from occurring.

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

Should you ditch it, then?

Not exactly. 

鈥淚t makes more sense to use cranberry juice in a proportionate amount as a preventive measure, though I wouldn鈥檛 recommend that鈥檚 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.鈥�

Better treatment options for UTIs

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

鈥淥nce 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鈥檛 let people who are more profit-oriented tell you otherwise. Cranberry juice is just one of many ways to prevent UTIs 鈥� especially in recurrent infections 鈥� and it works in tandem with other preventive measures.鈥�

The takeaway

Cranberry juice for feminine wellness and vaginal health, but it can鈥檛 cure urinary tract infections. At best, it鈥檚 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鈥檚 such a widespread notion that one hardly knows when or how it started; we鈥檝e just come to accept it. But is it based on scientific fact or tales-under-the-moonlight material? An practitioner, Mary says it鈥檚 more of the latter.

What鈥檚 period syncing?

鈥淲e weren鈥檛 taught period syncing in medical school, and that鈥檚 largely because it鈥檚 not backed by extensive research,鈥� Mary says.

Period syncing describes a popular belief that women who didn鈥檛 have synchronised periods before will begin to when they stay in close proximity long enough. It鈥檚 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鈥檛 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鈥檇 mean the woman is most fertile during the new moon 鈥� a claim Mary insists has no scientific basis.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a thing in some cultures 鈥� definitely not common in Nigeria, though 鈥� but no, you can鈥檛 sync with the moon.鈥�

You can sync with other hot babes at 91大神鈥檚 HERtitude! Click to buy your ticket.

It all comes down to mathematics and coincidence

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

鈥淲omen have different menstrual cycles, and over time, they鈥檒l overlap. For instance, I have a 28-day cycle. This means I won鈥檛 start my period on the same day of each month because my cycle doesn鈥檛 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鈥檚 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.鈥�

It also explains the moon thing. When the early people 鈥� read as 鈥渙ur ancestors鈥� 鈥� 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鈥檛 universal, as there would鈥檝e 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.

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

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.

鈥淪tress 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 鈥� specifically progesterone and estrogen 鈥� and these control when, or if, you see your period.鈥�

The takeaway

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

However, if you鈥檝e 鈥渟ynced鈥� with the women you live with before and then experienced an 鈥渙ut of sync鈥� period, it doesn鈥檛 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 鈥渢oilet infection鈥�, there鈥檚 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鈥檚 problems. 

Sigh

If it wasn鈥檛 a danfo, it was one of those loud voices that repeatedly thundered from hidden speakers in the market urging you to buy 鈥淒r Iguedo鈥檚 Goko Cleanser鈥� 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 鈥渋tching in the vaginal area鈥� to 鈥渨atery smelly discharge鈥� and even 鈥渋nfertility鈥�.

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

What鈥檚 a toilet infection?

鈥淭oilet infection is a layman 鈥� and often misleading 鈥� term for vaginitis,鈥� Itohan says. 

Google-trained doctors be like鈥�

(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鈥檚 actually a common medical condition.

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

But is it gotten from toilets?

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

鈥淣o. It鈥檚 definitely not. A dirty toilet doesn’t lead to a vaginal infection. To know what might be causing inflammation, it鈥檚 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鈥檚 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鈥檛 even experience itching or any symptoms with bacterial vaginosis.鈥�

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

鈥淲e call this type non-infectious vaginitis, and it鈥檚 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鈥檚 another recipe for bacterial imbalance.鈥�

And definitely don鈥檛 do this:

Generalising can be dangerous

As someone who鈥檚 seen several cases of vaginitis, Itohan understands the dangers of blanketing every symptom as a 鈥渢oilet infection鈥�.

鈥淢ost 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鈥檇 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.鈥�

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

Should you be worried?

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

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

Know your body, babes

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

鈥淓very woman has some form of vaginal discharge and smell. The discharge tends to change in consistency and quantity throughout the menstrual cycle. When you鈥檙e in tune with your vaginal health, you鈥檇 know when there鈥檚 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鈥檚 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.鈥�

On treatment

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

鈥淥nce 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?鈥�

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

鈥淎void douching like a plague. Please don鈥檛 steam your vagina to make it 鈥榯ight鈥�. 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.鈥�

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

NEXT READ: Why Women鈥檚 Nipples Hurt, According to Marion