Erica Sloan
Erica Sloan is the senior health writer at SELF, where she covers sleep, mental well-being, and sexual and reproductive health, among other health topics. Previously, she was the senior lifestyle editor at Well+Good, and she’s also held editorial positions at Martha Stewart Living, Prevention, and Washingtonian. Erica lives in New York City and can often be found reading her horoscope or checking out the newest dance cardio workout.
Can You Really Improve Your Egg Quality—and Fertility—With Lifestyle Changes?
Certain behaviors and nutrients might have some sway, but to what extent and for whom is still fuzzy.
Your ‘Chronic UTIs’ Might Actually Not Be UTIs at All
Common infections don’t have a monopoly on bladder pain and urgency.
Spring Allergies Are Back…With a Vengeance. Here’s How to Deal
It’s not your imagination: Pollen season is creeping earlier and getting worse.
So You Just Missed Your Period But You’re Not Pregnant. Here’s What Might Be Going On
And when to check in with your doctor about an MIA cycle.
The Science on Weight and Health Is More Complicated Than You Think
There’s a lot that people—including health care professionals—get wrong about the connection.
6 Little Things Sleep Doctors Actually Do Every Day for Better Shut-Eye
Bookmark this list for when you could use some snooze support.
What Is Prebiotic Soda—and Is It Actually Good for You?
Here’s what RDs say these buzzy drinks can (and can’t) do for your gut.
How to Prevent UTIs If You’re Stuck in a Constant Cycle of Infection
Yes, you *can* wrest your freedom back from the tight clench of your urethra.
Access to Compounded GLP-1s Is Drying Up. Here’s What to Know About the Copycat Weight-Loss Drugs.
Recent FDA changes have thrown their availability into legal limbo.
6 Small, Everyday Habits Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists Wish You’d Break
From posture quirks to bathroom behaviors, these things can do a number.
How to Spot Measles Symptoms in Adults as Outbreaks Spread in the US
Doctors break down the key warning signs, including the signature rash.
Step Aside, Fight-or-Flight. ‘Tend and Befriend’ Is Here to Help
It can be a more intuitive—and supportive—stress response in some people.
Is Your Irritated Vagina a Yeast Infection or Bacterial Vaginosis? Here’s How to Tell
They’re both a huge drag, but they come with distinct symptoms, risk factors, and solutions.
6 Common Habits Podiatrists Say Are Wrecking Your Feet
You’ll want to kick these quick, before injury or infection sets in.
Does a Fiber Supplement Work as Well as the Real Deal?
It can have some digestive upsides—but it’s not a one-for-one proxy.
How to Sext With Confidence and Have a Hotter Relationship Because of It
Expert tips for coming up with ideas and keeping the convo rolling.
Is Your Nasty Cold Actually Whooping Cough? Here’s How to Tell
Pertussis is making a resurgence—just when we thought cold-and-flu season couldn’t get any worse.
9 Foods That Might Seem Ultraprocessed—But Actually Aren’t
Plus, how much should you really care about the degree of processing in the first place?
What Are ‘Ultraprocessed’ Foods Exactly—and How Worried Should You Be About Eating Them?
The term isn’t always a proxy for “unhealthy,” but plenty of these products pose real health risks.
6 Habits Therapists Are Begging You to Break for the Sake of Your Mental Health
You might not realize these behaviors are sapping the joy and ease from your life.