We believe that your body is sending you messages, and that these should not be suppressed, but rather listened to.
Obstetrician-gynecologist
Dr. Barbara Krauth
I have never been afraid to speak up, especially when standing up for others. I believe that Hungarian women deserve the highest standard of gynecological care, which is why I engage in educational activities on social media in my free time. It is not easy to speak in front of hundreds of thousands of people, but I am convinced that the foundation of health awareness is open dialogue. It is important that women dare to ask questions, seek information, and make responsible decisions about their own health. As a young adult, I experienced for years how burdensome a recurring health problem can be. It was with this thought in mind that our collaborative work began with my friends and colleagues, Júlia Benkovics and Georgina Józsa-Párkány. The three of us work in different fields, but we are driven by a common goal: to represent a evidence-based, responsible perspective and to provide support to women.
Obstetrician-gynecologist
Dr. Júlia Benkovics
Professional expertise only becomes truly valuable when we can share it in a clear and responsible manner. I believe that knowledge is not an end in itself, but a tool to help women navigate their own health with greater confidence. It is important to me that what I have learned at the university and in practice does not remain within the walls of the clinic, but is integrated into everyday life – into family life, dietary habits, and community thinking. I am convinced that a health-conscious mindset is shaped in our daily routines, and it is the doctor's responsibility to provide expert guidance for this. This is why, alongside my clinical work, I have been involved in public education for years. Outside of my clinical practice, I teach in the lactation consultancy and family medicine programs at Semmelweis University, where the focus is on breastfeeding, obstetrics, and lifestyle aspects related to gynecological conditions.
Pharmaceutical expert
Georgina Józsa-Párkány
I am a mother of two and have been working in the pharmaceutical industry for over twenty years, where I have come to understand not only how the market operates, but also how people think. Strategy, marketing, and a business mindset are my areas of expertise. I believe that brands that operate responsibly, based on transparent values, are important to health-conscious women. I have always loved creating: building, developing, and working on projects that represent long-term value. The world of pharmaceutical marketing provided me with a wealth of experience – it taught me how to turn an idea into a consistent, evidence-based brand. When Júlia, Barbara, and I began brainstorming together, it quickly became clear to me that PUURA would be born from a shared perspective. A brand that pays attention to the needs of women and is built on professional knowledge. PUURA was born out of our experience, our dedication, and a shared vision.
Muses of Puura
Bianka
Perhaps surprisingly, I didn't turn to a doctor because of classic gynecological complaints: I felt something was wrong when my facial skin suddenly became as acne-prone as it was in my teens
Alexandra
For years I went for regular gynecological check-ups, and it was always a relief to know that everything was fine. Over the past 1-2 years, however, a great many things have changed in my life...
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Vaginal flora – friend or foe? Spoiler: it can be both.
The overwhelming majority of women experience vaginal complaints at least once in their lives – burning sensations, itching, unusual discharge, and, of course, the eternal question: "Shouldn't I get a culture done?" Vaginal discharge culture is often the first diagnostic step, but unfortunately, it does not always lead to a definitive answer. The female vagina is a complex, living ecosystem. Lactobacilli – such as L. crispatus, L. iners, or L. gasseri – form the backbone of a healthy flora. These microscopic guardians create an acidic environment that prevents the proliferation of pathogens and also regulates the local immune response. Yet, the vaginal flora of women is diverse: not everyone lives with a "classic" Lactobacillus dominance, and this does not necessarily mean there is a problem. In fact, Candida fungus, for instance, can be detected in 60% of women – without it causing any complaints. Gardnerella, a well-known player in bacterial vaginosis, is also a frequent guest. Their presence, therefore, does not necessarily mean trouble. If we culture vaginal discharge, a microorganism can easily "grow out" that is indeed present but is not actually responsible for the symptoms. This is like a security camera recording someone at a scene – it doesn't mean they committed the offense. Vaginal discharge culture is therefore a delicate genre: it can be misleading and lead to unnecessary treatments. At the same time, there are pathogens – such as Chlamydia – that are never part of a healthy vaginal flora, so if they appear, they indicate a real problem. The bottom line? The vaginal flora is not black and white. Diagnosis always requires a combined interpretation of symptoms, age, cycle phase, and test results – not just a "positive culture." Let us trust in our bodies, and even more so: in professionals who see not just the bacteria, but us as a complex whole. References: Petrova MI, van den Broek M, Balzarini J, Vanderleyden J, Lebeer S. The role of Lactobacillus iners in vaginal health and disease. Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology. 2020;10:76. doi:10.3389/fcimb.2020.00076 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34881196/ Ma, B., Forney, L. J., & Ravel, J. (2012). Vaginal microbiome: Rethinking health and disease. Annual Review of Microbiology, 66, 371–389 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22746335/ Sobel, J. D. (2007). Vulvovaginal candidosis. The Lancet, 369(9577), 1961–1971. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17560449/ Muzny CA, Schwebke JR. Pathogenesis of bacterial vaginosis: discussion of current hypotheses. Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2016 Nov 15;214(suppl 1):S1-S5. doi:10.1093/infdis/jiw119 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27449868/
Menstrual myths: What is the truth?
Menstruation has been surrounded by myths and misunderstandings for millennia. Although science has developed significantly, many misconceptions still persist in the public consciousness about what you can and cannot do during this period. It is time to set the record straight! 1. Myth: You shouldn't exercise during menstruation Many believe that physical activity can worsen menstrual pain or cause excessive bleeding. In reality, moderate-intensity exercise—such as walking, yoga, or swimming—can reduce cramps and improve well-being. According to a 2019 Cochrane review, regular exercise can reduce the severity of menstrual pain by up to 25%. So, not only is it okay to exercise, it is actually recommended! 2. Myth: Cold water can stop your period Contact with cold water—such as bathing or swimming—does not affect the menstrual cycle. Menstrual bleeding does not stop; at most, the hydrostatic pressure in the water might slow its discharge, but as soon as you step out of the pool, the bleeding continues. This is, therefore, a completely baseless myth. 3. Myth: You cannot get pregnant during menstruation Although the chance of getting pregnant during menstruation is lower, it is not impossible! For those with shorter cycles (e.g., 21 days), ovulation may fall closer to the menstrual period, and since sperm can remain viable in the female body for up to 5 days, intercourse during menstruation can sometimes lead to pregnancy. Therefore, if you do not want to have a baby, it is important to use contraception during your period as well. 4. Myth: Using tampons is dangerous and can cause toxic shock Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious bacterial infection, is often mentioned in relation to tampons. However, TSS is extremely rare—there is less than one case per million people annually. Tampons are safe if used properly, meaning they are not left in for too long (no more than 4–8 hours) and you choose the right size. 5. Myth: You are forbidden from bathing or washing your hair during your period This is one of the oldest and most stubborn myths, based on cultural beliefs. There is no scientific evidence that bathing or washing your hair has any harmful effect on menstruation. On the contrary, warm water can help relax muscles and relieve cramps. 6. Myth: "Toxins" leave the body with menstruation Menstruation is not a detoxification process for the body, but the natural shedding of the uterine lining. Toxins are filtered out by the liver and kidneys, not excreted through menstrual blood. Therefore, it is completely misleading to think that menstruation "cleanses" the body of toxins. Summary Myths surrounding menstruation often stem from cultural beliefs or outdated information, but scientific research has clearly debunked them. It is important to obtain information from reliable sources and not let misconceptions influence the decisions you make about your health. References: Brown J et al. Exercise for dysmenorrhoea. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2019;9:CD004142. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31538328/ Harel Z. Omega-3 fatty acids for menstrual pain. Adolesc Health Med Ther. 2012;3:25-32. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22261128/ Schlievert PM et al. Toxic shock syndrome and tampon use: A review. Clin Infect Dis. 2019;68(4):512-518. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32461307/ Stanford JB et al. Menstrual cycle variability and ovulation timing. Obstet Gynecol. 2002;99(6):929-938. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16700687/ Wilcox AJ et al. Timing of sexual intercourse in relation to ovulation. N Engl J Med. 1995;333(23):1517-1521. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7477165/
Menstruation and lifestyle: does what we eat and how we live really matter?
Many people think there is no direct link between menstrual pain and lifestyle, yet more and more research is proving the opposite. Diet, exercise, and stress management can significantly influence not only the menstrual cycle but also its unpleasant symptoms. Nutrition and menstrual pain A proper diet can significantly reduce pain associated with menstruation. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, flaxseed, or walnuts, help moderate prostaglandin levels, thereby alleviating cramps. Foods high in magnesium, such as spinach, bananas, or almonds, have a similar effect, as they help relax muscles and reduce the intensity of contractions. Turmeric, ginger, and berries can also act as natural anti-inflammatories, potentially easing menstrual pain. What should be avoided? Just as certain foods can help, others may have the opposite effect. Processed foods and sugar, for example, can increase inflammatory processes, thereby intensifying pain. Caffeine and alcohol are also not recommended during this period, as they can affect hormonal balance and worsen cramps. Excessive stress and lack of sleep also have an indirect effect on the cycle: rising cortisol levels can alter the timing and intensity of menstruation, so it is worth focusing on proper rest and relaxation. The effect of movement on menstrual pain Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to reduce menstrual pain. Moderate-intensity activities, such as walking, yoga, or swimming, stimulate blood circulation, which improves oxygen supply and helps relax muscles. According to a 2019 Cochrane review, regular exercise can reduce the severity of menstrual cramps by up to 25%, so it is worth incorporating into daily life. Summary: lifestyle really does matter Although menstrual pain is rooted in hormonal and biological factors, changing your diet and lifestyle can be a proven effective way to alleviate symptoms. Proper nutrient intake, the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium, regular exercise, and stress management can help ensure that menstruation does not have to be the most difficult time of every month. References: Dawood MY. Primary dysmenorrhea: Advances in pathogenesis and management. Obstet Gynecol 2006;108(2):428-441. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16880317/ De Souza MC et al. Magnesium and vitamin B6 for menstrual cramps: A systematic review. J Women’s Health 2017;26(6):624-632. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3208934/ Brown J et al. Exercise for dysmenorrhoea. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2019;9:CD004142. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31538328/ Harel Z. Omega-3 fatty acids for menstrual pain. Adolesc Health Med Ther. 2012;3:25-32. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22261128/ Zhou et al. Impact of stress and sleep deprivation on menstrual cycles. J Endocrinol Invest. 2020;43(5):625-632. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25051527/
Why is menstruation painful?
Menstruation is a natural physiological process of the female body, yet for many women, it can be accompanied by unpleasant or even severe pain. But at what point is menstrual pain considered "normal," and when is a medical examination warranted? Why is menstruation painful if there is no underlying disease? Many people equate menstruation with the shedding of the uterine lining, but the process is much more complex than that. Primary menstrual pain (primary dysmenorrhea) is a condition in which there is no detectable anatomical abnormality or disease, yet it can still cause significant pain. It is important to emphasize, however, that if menstrual pain is extreme, leaves you bedridden, causes feelings of fainting or nausea, or is accompanied by bowel or urinary issues, then you should see a gynecologist. In such cases, endometriosis—a chronic gynecological condition that often causes similar symptoms—may be suspected. With endometriosis, pain can begin days before menstruation, radiate to the back and legs, and does not always respond to traditional painkillers. Main causes of menstrual pain Prostaglandins and inflammatory processes: During menstruation, when the uterine lining sheds, prostaglandins are released, playing a key role in inflammatory processes. These substances irritate nerve endings, increasing pain. The intensity of the pain also depends on individual nervous system sensitivity. Uterine contractions and oxygen deficiency: The uterine muscle contracts during menstruation to help expel the lining. However, these intense contractions can compress the small blood vessels supplying the uterus, potentially leading to oxygen deficiency. This can cause pain similar to muscle cramps. How can menstrual pain be relieved? There are many effective ways to reduce menstrual pain: NSAID painkillers: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) inhibit prostaglandin production, thereby reducing pain and the inflammatory response. Magnesium and Vitamin B6: These can reduce the strength of contractions by relaxing the smooth muscles of the uterus. Regular exercise: Sports improve blood circulation, thereby increasing oxygen supply and reducing pain. Omega-3 fatty acids: Due to their anti-inflammatory effects, they can contribute to alleviating menstrual pain. Primary painful menstruation often appears in the teenage years, but over time—especially after childbirth—it may improve for many women. Until then, lifestyle changes and appropriate support can help ensure that your period is not the most difficult time of every month. References: Dawood, M. Y. (2006). Primary dysmenorrhea: advances in pathogenesis and management. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 108(2), 428–441. doi: 10.1097/01.AOG.0000230214.26638.0c https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16880317/ Fathizadeh, N., Ebrahimi, E., Valiani, M., Tavakoli, N., & Yar, M. H. (2010). Evaluating the effect of magnesium and magnesium plus vitamin B6 supplement on the severity of premenstrual syndrome. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research, 15(Suppl 1), 401–405. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3208934/ Armour, M., Ee, C. C., Naidoo, D., Ayati, Z., Chalmers, K. J., Steel, K. A., de Manincor, M. J., & Delshad, E. (2019). Exercise for dysmenorrhoea. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2019(9), CD004142. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD004142.pub4 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31538328/ Rahbar, N., Asgharzadeh, N., & Ghorbani, R. (2012). Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on intensity of primary dysmenorrhea. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, 117(1), 45–47. doi: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2011.11.019 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22261128/ Naraoka, Y., Hosokawa, M., Minato-Inokawa, S., & Sato, Y. (2023). Severity of Menstrual Pain Is Associated with Nutritional Intake and Lifestyle Habits. Healthcare, 11(9), 1289. doi: 10.3390/healthcare11091289 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10178419/
