The Midlife Rebellion: Ageing, Body & Womanhood

What is the Nexplanon implant? How does it work? Does it hurt to get it inserted? How long does it last? Does it protect against STIs? Today I’m sharing my answers to all these questions, plus my personal experiences getting the Nexplanon subdermal contraceptive inserted...

It can be easy to 'stick your head in the sand' when it comes to those 3-yearly cervical smear tests. I know, because I’ve been there and done it myself. The reminder letter arrives... I open it, groan, and shove it into a drawer and try to forget about it. Eventually I force myself to put my big girl pants on and march myself down to the doctor’s surgery, before taking them off again for the nurse.

I haven't 'reached' perimenopause so much as it's hunted me down and attacked me. That’s how it feels, anyway.

2020. Year of dashed hopes, ruined plans, social distancing, covered faces, stress and anxiety – plus a renewed appreciation for the NHS and all keyworkers. How did you spend the COVID-19 lockdown? Did you use the time to slow down, listen to your needs, learn a new language, reach your peak of physical fitness, begin a new hobby or craft? ...me neither. I don't know anyone who did, to be honest.