Understanding how we evaluate and present medical research
Throughout this website, you'll see evidence badges that indicate the strength of research support for specific claims. This transparency helps you understand which recommendations are well-established and which are based on preliminary or limited evidence.
These claims are backed by multiple high-quality studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, or established clinical guidelines from major medical organizations (ACOG, Endocrine Society, etc.). The evidence is consistent across studies and represents current medical consensus.
Example: "NSAIDs are effective for primary dysmenorrhea" - supported by numerous randomized controlled trials and clinical guidelines.
These claims are based on smaller studies, observational data, preliminary research, or findings that are not yet consistent across multiple studies. The research is promising but needs further investigation.
Example: "Pelvic floor physical therapy may help mild prolapse" - supported by several studies but needs more large-scale trials.
These areas have plausible biological mechanisms but insufficient evidence, conflicting study results, or represent areas where more research is needed. We present these with appropriate caveats.
Example: "Seed oils and inflammation" - theoretical mechanisms but inconsistent human evidence.
Content is based on:
We prioritize recent research (past 5-10 years) while recognizing that some foundational knowledge is well-established from older studies.
Research tells us what happens on average in groups of people. Individual responses vary significantly due to genetics, medical history, lifestyle, and many other factors. What works for most people may not work for you, and what doesn't work for most people might work for you.
Medical knowledge changes as new studies are published. What is considered best practice today may change as more evidence emerges. We update content periodically but cannot guarantee all information is current at all times.
Women's health has been historically underfunded and understudied. Many conditions lack high-quality research, particularly long-term studies. We note these gaps explicitly.
Evidence-based information is a tool to support informed conversations with your healthcare provider, not a replacement for clinical judgment. Your provider can help you understand: