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Erica Sweeney head shot - SELF

Erica Sweeney

Erica is a freelance writer who covers health, wellness, food, and business. She received her MA in journalism from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and has worked in many different areas of the media industry. She’s been a full-time freelancer since 2016. Her work appears at SELF and in many other print and digital publications, including The New York Times, Men’s Health, HuffPost, Parade, Business Insider, and more. When she’s not writing or brainstorming new story ideas, she enjoys trying new fitness routines, traveling, reading (and re-reading) classic novels, and snuggling with her two 14-year-old dogs.

Menopause

Itchy Ears, Anxiety, Joint Pain—8 Subtle Perimenopause Symptoms You Should Know

Prepare yourself for some unexpected effects.
Sexual & Reproductive Health

Yes, Perimenopause Might Be Shrinking Your Labia

These vulvovaginal changes can start any time during perimenopause or menopause.
Sexual & Reproductive Health

7 Women Share Their Tips for Dealing With Perimenopause Symptoms

Here’s what worked for them during this hormonal roller-coaster ride.
Health

8 Ways to Prevent Major Joint Pain as You Age

A little TLC in early adulthood can keep your hardworking hips and knees pain-free through the decades.
Urinary Tract Infections

How to Soothe UTI Pain as You Wait for Your Prescription to Kick In

If it feels like there’s a fire-breathing dragon in your urethra, read this.
Migraine

The Right—And Wrong—Way to Approach Working Out With Migraine

Exercise is generally a good thing, but you’ll still need to listen to your body.
Pain

How to Fly On a Plane Without Wrecking Your Back

From booking tips to packing strategies, here’s exactly how to have a more comfortable flight.
Psoriatic Arthritis

How to Deal With Psoriatic Arthritis Pain When You’re at Work

The right pair of shoes—and regular reminders to move around—can go a long way.
Heart Failure

Super Cold Temps Can Put Your Heart at Risk—Here’s How to Stay Safe

If you want an excuse to bed rot when a chill comes through, we’ve got you.
Food

21 Meat Delivery Services to Try Out This Year

Bringing tasty, fresh cuts right to your doorstep.
Vaginal Health

8 Signs You Should Talk to a Doctor About Your Leaky Bladder

No, you shouldn’t be waking up every night to go to the bathroom.
Urinary Tract Infections

Here’s What May Be Causing Your Occasional Pee Leakage—and How to Make It Stop

A leaky bladder can affect you as early as your 20s.
Heart Failure

I Thought Pneumonia Was Causing My Strange Symptoms. Turns Out I Had Heart Failure.

I was in my 40s and running marathons—but something didn’t feel right.
Type 2 Diabetes

12 Diabetic Meal Delivery Services That Make Life So Much Easier

Mail order these meals right to your door.
Money

23 Money-Saving Tips You Can Start Trying Today

Even saving a small amount can make a big difference.