On this page 3 sections
Quick answer
- All bodies are different and change across the cycle.
- Kind self-talk and curating your feed really help.
- Focusing on sensation can boost confidence during sex.
- Persistent appearance worries deserve support.
Bloated days, spots, stretch marks, a vulva that looks nothing like the internet told you it should – it’s easy to feel self-conscious. But bodies are meant to be different, and they change across your cycle and your life.
Small shifts that help
- Talk to yourself like you would to a friend
- Appreciate what your body does, not just how it looks
- Mute or unfollow accounts that make you feel worse
- Question edited, filtered images – they’re not real life
- Spend time with people who make you feel good
- Period
Comfy clothes and kindness. Your body is working hard.
- Follicular
Many people feel more energetic – a nice time to move in ways you enjoy.
- Ovulation
Some people feel extra confident. Enjoy it!
- Luteal
Bloating and water retention can make you feel bigger. It’s temporary and normal.
MythVulvas should look a certain way.
Vulvas come in a huge range of shapes, sizes and colours. Different is normal.
Sources
Written by the Splash teamSources checked
This is general information, not medical advice. Splash can’t diagnose. If you’re worried, talk to a GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US). How we write and check articles.