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.
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PSA: Many Household Cleaners, Wipes, and Hand Sanitizers Won’t Kill Norovirus—Here’s What Will
An infectious disease specialist shares how to stop this bug in its tracks.
Just a Mountain of Science to Debunk All Those Seed Oil Myths
Trending claims that they’re toxic or inflammatory are totally bunk, according to nutrition scientists.
No, ‘Raw Water’ Isn’t Healthier Than Tap—It Could Actually Make You Very Sick
It’s a trend microbiologists say you should definitely avoid.
CDC Data Shows Norovirus Is Surging—Here are 5 Symptoms You Really Shouldn’t Ignore
Plus, when to see a doctor if this stomach bug gets the best of you.
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Olympian Tara Davis Woodhall Is Still Flying High—While Embracing Her Inner Homebody
The long jump champion talks to SELF about winning gold and making the most of her off-season.
Walking Pneumonia Is on the Rise. Here Are the Symptoms to Look Out For
It’s like a bad chest cold with some serious stamina.
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No, You Can’t Just ‘Bank’ All Your Rest During Vacations and Breaks
Experts say you need to make downtime part of your everyday life for it to work.
7 Simple Ways to Actually Reduce Inflammation in Your Body
Doctors share the everyday habits that make a difference.
How to Stop Peeing So Much If You Feel Like You Constantly Have to Go
A bunch of things can send your bladder into overdrive—but there’s also plenty you can do to rein it in.
What to Know About MCAS, a Condition That Can Feel Like a Nonstop Allergic Reaction
In the most severe cases, anaphylaxis can happen seemingly at random.
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Why Does My Anxiety Hit So Hard in the Morning Before I’ve Even Gotten Out of Bed?
The quality of your sleep and the size of your to-do list can both play a role.
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Why a Family ‘Fart Walk’ Should Be on Your Agenda This Thanksgiving
Break bread together—and then, break wind.
There’s a Reason You Always Seem to Get Sick When You Have Time Off
Your body isn’t just conspiring to ruin your vacation—promise.
How to Use Temperature Play to Ignite Your Sex Life
Adding hot and cold sensations to the mix can go a long way.
How to Safely Pause or Postpone Your Period
Yep, you can actually bypass bleeding, according to ob-gyns.
If You Need to Poop Right After Eating, Here’s Why
It’s a totally normal bodily response—but in some people, it’s extra strong.
What It Means if You’re Wholly Numb Right Now—And How to Cope
It’s a normal way of processing a range of big emotions at once, according to experts.
What to Know About SIBO, the Controversial Gut Condition That’s Tough to Diagnose
New tests are making it quicker to ID than ever—but not all doctors trust the results.
Why Does It Burn When I Pee After Sex?
Doctors explain why doing the right thing can feel so painful in the moment.
When Does a Swollen Lymph Node Point to Something More Serious?
Here are the most concerning qualities to look for, according to doctors.