I launched Unfabled way back in early 2021, on a mission to create a one stop cycle care shop and change the narrative around menstrual health. My vision was clear: no more tampons shelved next to pet food or laundry detergent, but a non-toxic, sustainable, empowering, stigma-free space for menstrual wellness.

After launching, I became increasingly aware of just how underserved we are when it comes to hormonal, sexual and gynaecological health. I realised most of my friends and members of our community were still reliant on Whatsapp groups, or Dr. Google, for health advice – unsure on where to turn for their period symptoms, fertility journey or sleep support, and unaware of how all of these things could be linked. So, I made it my mission to expand Unfabled and committed to building the world’s most trusted destination for women’s health and wellness. 

The problem is, language around these topics isn't quite fit for purpose. As a rule, we use gender inclusive language as much as is possible, but what this means exactly when it comes to ‘women’s health’ is complicated.  ‘Reproductive health’ feels reductive, biologically deterministic. ‘Menstrual health’ doesn't seem to cover the full scope of what we offer. ‘Gynaecological health’ is similarly too narrow in scope – focusing purely on the female reproductive system, rather than addressing holistic health and wellness.

‘Women's health’ seems to be the best fit, covering hormonal symptoms, mental wellbeing, fertility, fitness, pregnancy, menopause, alongside more general health areas that impact those assigned female at birth disproportionately, like urinary conditions, sports injuries, and even diabetes. The problem? It’s fundamentally a cisgendered term – something we're hyper aware of. I'll be honest, it’s never been something we’re 100% comfortable with, and it's time we opened up the conversation and made our intentions and values as a brand clear.

When we speak about women's health, or say ‘for women, by women,’ we want you to know that this is never meant exclusively. We are here to support everyone assigned female at birth, regardless of your gender identity, socio-economic background, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, ability, or lived experience. Cis men, you’re welcome here, too! Your support, whether for those in your life facing women’s health challenges or for our broader mission, is vital in breaking stigma and transforming the narrative, and we’re grateful to have you with us. 

I’ll round out this piece with a reminder: the conversation doesn’t end here. We’re committed to creating a space that is inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the unique challenges faced by all members of our community, and so our door (or inbox) is always open. We’re a work in progress, and we’d love for you to help us grow.