Where to find reliable information and real support. Helplines and services vary by country, so check what is available where you live.
Look for information from national health services, universities, and medical bodies rather than forums or social media. Widely trusted sources include the World Health Organization (who.int), the NHS (nhs.uk), the Office on Women's Health (womenshealth.gov), and Planned Parenthood (plannedparenthood.org). A reliable page usually says who wrote it, when it was last reviewed, and what evidence it is based on — and it is not trying to sell you a supplement.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact your local emergency number. For urgent mental health support, many countries have free, confidential 24/7 helplines and text lines — for example 988 in the US, 116 123 (Samaritans) in the UK and Ireland, and 13 11 14 (Lifeline) in Australia. findahelpline.com lists services by country. You do not need to be in crisis to call; these lines are also there when you simply need to talk.
Sexual health clinics offer contraception, STI testing and treatment, emergency contraception, and pregnancy advice — usually free or low cost and confidential, including for young people. Search for your local sexual health or family planning clinic, or ask a pharmacist, who can often help with emergency contraception and simple infections without an appointment.
Domestic abuse and sexual assault services provide confidential advice whether or not you want to report anything. Many run 24-hour helplines and online chat, and can help with safety planning, housing, and legal options. If images of you have been shared or you are being blackmailed online, report it to the platform and to your national cybercrime or child protection reporting service.
Choose a clinic you can reach easily and ask whether appointments are confidential — in most places they are, including for under-18s. Before you go, write down your symptoms, when they started, your cycle dates, and any medicines you take. It is fine to bring a friend or family member, to ask for a female clinician, to ask questions until you understand the answer, and to ask for a second opinion if you feel dismissed.
Books, podcasts, and videos from qualified clinicians are a good way to go deeper — for example books by gynaecologists and NHS or WHO explainer videos. Before you trust a health account online, check whether the person has relevant qualifications, whether they cite evidence, and whether they are selling something. If advice contradicts mainstream medical guidance, treat it with caution.