Health Conditions
A-Z CONDITION FINDER
Is Aquaphor or Vaseline Better for Your Dry, Flaky Skin?
Yes, there’s a difference—and it matters if you’ve got sensitive skin.
By Jenna RyuMedically reviewed by Divya Shokeen, MD
How to Safely Pause or Postpone Your Period
Yep, you can actually bypass bleeding, according to ob-gyns.
By Erica SloanMedically reviewed by Sanaz Ghazal, MD
If You Need to Poop Right After Eating, Here’s Why
It’s a totally normal bodily response—but in some people, it’s extra strong.
By Erica Sloan
What to Know About SIBO, the Controversial Gut Condition That’s Tough to Diagnose
New tests are making it quicker to ID than ever—but not all doctors trust the results.
By Erica SloanMedically reviewed by Ugo Iroku, MD, MHS
Yep, Your Period Can Cause Awful Anxiety. Here’s How to Deal
It’s not just in your head—and there are ways to prepare each month to feel a lot better.
By Julia RiesMedically reviewed by Sanaz Ghazal, MD
Why Does It Burn When I Pee After Sex?
Doctors explain why doing the right thing can feel so painful in the moment.
By Erica Sloan
SELF Daily
Make your inbox healthier and happier with the latest SELF stories, delivered fresh daily.
15 RSV Symptoms in Babies All Caregivers Should Be Aware of Right Now
Plus, when to seek urgent care for a sick child.
By Korin Miller and Ashley Abramson
I Was Diagnosed With a Rare Autoimmune Disease. These Were the Earliest Signs
My doctors dismissed all my scary symptoms and said there was nothing they could do for me.
By Alice OglethorpeMedically reviewed by Sandhya Pruthi, MD
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Is the Flu-Like Illness You Haven’t Heard About
Here’s what to look out for.
By Korin Miller and Ashley Abramson
5 Things People of Color Need to Know About Eczema
Dermatologists share their tips for getting the care you deserve.
By Lynya FloydMedically reviewed by Oyetewa Asempa, MD, FAAD
Why Does My Chest Hurt When I Take Deep Breaths?
Don’t panic—the cause could be a common, non-life-threatening condition.
By Katie Camero
How to Gently Encourage a Loved One to Go to Therapy
If they are super resistant—but could probably benefit from professional help—try these talking points.
By Julia Sullivan
The Best Dandruff Shampoos for Itchy, Flaky Scalps
Soothing options that derms say really work.
By Sara Coughlin
My Doctors Think I Have Stiff-Person Syndrome. These Were the Symptoms I Missed
I’m now traveling around the country in an RV with my husband until I find some definitive answers.
By Katie Camero
With ‘Magical Thinking OCD,’ Superstition Can Take Over Your Life
Something as small as a phrase you say or an outfit you wear can feel like it holds sway over your future.
By Erica Sloan
Everything You Need to Know About Getting the RSV Shot During Pregnancy
This respiratory virus is the No. 1 cause of hospitalizations for babies.
By Ashley AbramsonMedically reviewed by Payal K. Patel, MD
What You Really Need to Know About the RSV Vaccine for Fall 2024
If you’re pregnant, have a baby, or are 60+, you should be paying attention to this virus.
By Ashley AbramsonMedically reviewed by Payal K. Patel, MD
My Baby Was Hospitalized With RSV After a Relative Kissed Him at a Party
You never think your child is going to be in that small percentage of serious cases.
By Kathleen Felton
How to Tell If Your Anxiety and Constant Rumination Is Actually OCD
The symptoms of this disorder are way more debilitating than you might think.
By Julia RiesMedically reviewed by Jessica Stern, PhD
There’s a ‘Real, Documented Rise’ in Cancer in Young People. Should You Be Worried?
Not every cough, ache, or lesion should cause panic, but it’s helpful to know the warning signs.
By Amy Norton
5 Signs of Lung Cancer Even Nonsmokers Need to Know
Up to 20% of cases occur in folks who’ve never touched a cigarette.
By Julia SullivanMedically reviewed by Coral Olazagasti, MD
These Are the Most Common Colon Cancer Symptoms in Young People
It’s on the rise in younger folks, and while you shouldn’t panic, it’s still good to know the signs.
By Amy Norton
How Abortion Doulas Are Helping People Get More Empathetic Care
“My job is to demystify abortion, give people good information about it, and to let people know what is fact and what is fiction.”
By Sarah Prager
Yes, It’s Still Really Worth Avoiding COVID—Even If You’ve Already Had It a Few Times
This virus behaves differently in our bodies than cold and flu—and can do major long-term damage.
By Erica SloanMedically reviewed by Payal K. Patel, MD