Cycle Health with The Blood Slut

When I came across Gem Campbell, also known as The Blood Slut, I knew I had to invite them onto the podcast! Gem is a sexologist specializing in labia insecurity and a holistic dietitian focused on menstrual cycle health. In our conversation, we explored topics that so many people struggle with - yet are rarely discussed openly. From PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) and cycle syncing to vulva insecurity and labiaplasty, we broke down the myths, shame, and conditioning that keep people disconnected from their bodies. This blog will walk through the key themes we explored, offering insights and tools to help you reclaim your body, cycle, and pleasure!

PMDD & PME: Understanding Severe Menstrual Mood Swings

PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) is a severe condition where hormonal fluctuations trigger extreme mood swings, depression, rage, and even suicidal thoughts. PME (premenstrual exacerbation) occurs when pre-existing mental health conditions, such as PTSD, ADHD, or anxiety, intensify before menstruation.

Gem shared their experience of living with PMDD for over two years, describing it as a cycle of emotional and physical distress that felt impossible to escape. They eventually found a path to healing, and their insights provide a roadmap for others navigating similar struggles.

Supporting Yourself Through PMDD or PME

• Therapy, particularly EMDR – PMDD is often linked to childhood trauma. Healing past wounds through trauma-informed therapy, such as EMDR, can significantly reduce symptoms.
• Blood sugar balance – Skipping meals can worsen symptoms. Eating regular meals with protein and healthy fats can help stabilize mood and energy levels.
• Cycle awareness – Tracking your cycle can help you anticipate emotional shifts and prepare for difficult phases before they escalate.
• Medication, if needed – Some people benefit from antidepressants or hormonal birth control. There is no shame in seeking medical support if it improves your well-being!
  
  

For those experiencing extreme mood swings, hopelessness, or anger before their period, it is important to recognize that this is not simply PMS. PMDD and PME are serious conditions that deserve proper care and attention. If you’re wondering if you have PMDD or PME, take this self-screening test.

Cycle Syncing: Working With Your Hormones Instead of Against Them

One of the most powerful ways to support menstrual health is by aligning daily routines with the natural rhythms of the menstrual cycle. This practice, known as cycle syncing, allows individuals to optimize energy, productivity, and self-care based on hormonal fluctuations.

The menstrual cycle consists of four phases, each correlating with a season:

• Follicular Phase (Inner Spring): Energy begins to rise after menstruation, making this a great time to start new projects and socialize.
• Ovulation (Inner Summer): Confidence and magnetism peak, making this the ideal time for public speaking, networking, or high-energy activities.
• Luteal Phase (Inner Autumn): Energy begins to wane, making it a good time for deep work, organization, and setting boundaries.
• Menstrual Phase (Inner Winter): The body requires rest and reflection. This is a time for slowing down, turning inward, and prioritizing self-care.
  
  

Simple Ways to Sync with Your Cycle

• Exercise – High-energy workouts feel best during ovulation, while menstruation calls for gentler movement like yoga or walking.
• Nutrition – Light, fresh foods tend to work well in the follicular and ovulatory phases, whereas warm, grounding meals support the luteal and menstrual phases.
• Work & Social Life – High-energy, outward-facing activities align well with ovulation, while menstruation is best reserved for rest and introspection.
  
  

Cycle syncing does not require perfection. Even small adjustments can help improve overall well-being and create a greater sense of alignment with the body.

Vulva Insecurity: Why So Many People Struggle to Accept Their Bodies

Many people experience deep insecurity about the appearance of their vulvas. Cultural conditioning, unrealistic beauty standards, and the influence of pornography have led many to believe that there is a singular “normal” way for a vulva to look.

Gem shared their personal journey of struggling with labia insecurity for years. They believed their labia were “too long” and considered labiaplasty. It wasn’t until they began intentionally looking at their vulva - through mirror work, self-photography, and exposure to diverse vulva imagery - that they were able to break free from the shame they had internalized.

Overcoming Vulva Insecurity

• Get familiar with your body. Regularly looking at your vulva in a mirror can help build comfort and connection.
• Seek out diverse imagery. Following accounts that celebrate vulva diversity, such as The Vulva Gallery, can help challenge unrealistic standards.
• Identify where the insecurity comes from. Recognizing the external influences that shaped negative beliefs about the vulva can help dismantle them.
  
  

Every vulva is unique. There is no “correct” shape, size, or color. Learning to embrace natural variation is key to developing self-acceptance.

Labiaplasty: Should You Alter Your Body?

Labiaplasty, the surgical reduction of the labia, has increased significantly in popularity. While some people undergo the procedure for medical reasons, many are driven by a belief that their natural vulva is unattractive.

Gem nearly underwent labiaplasty as a teenager due to external pressures and insecurities. Looking back, they recognize that their desire for surgery was rooted in cultural conditioning rather than personal discomfort.

Before considering labiaplasty, it is important to ask:

• Where did my insecurity come from?
• Would I still want this change if there were no societal pressure?
• Could I learn to accept and love my vulva as it is?
  
  

Surgery is a personal choice, but if the motivation stems from shame rather than physical discomfort, exploring self-acceptance may be a more fulfilling path to healing.

Your Body Is Not a Problem to Be Fixed

Throughout this conversation with Gem, one theme remained constant: our bodies, cycles, and pleasure are not burdens. They are sources of wisdom, power, and connection.

• The menstrual cycle is not something to endure - it can be a guide for living in alignment.
• The vulva is not something to be ashamed of - it is diverse, unique, and beautiful in all its forms.
• Pain and discomfort are not inevitable - they are signals from the body asking for care and attention.
  
  

If you have ever felt disconnected from your body, struggling with your cycle or appearance, consider this an invitation to reclaim your relationship with yourself. The journey toward self-love and empowerment is not always easy, but it is always worth it!

Connect with Gem Campbell here:

Instagram: @thebloodslut [instagram.com/thebloodslut/]

Website: [iamawildgem.com/]

Podcast: Blood Slut Podcast [iamawildgem.com/blood-slut-podcast]