FAQ's

Q: Why can’t I take Fem21 if I’m on the pill or other hormonal contraceptives?

A: It’s not recommended to take Fem21 whilst using synthetic contraceptives as it can increase the excretion and metabolism of toxic as well as synthetic oestrogen.  As Fem21 works to rebalance your hormones and support proper functioning of the ovaries and formation of the endometrial lining, it may decrease the contraceptive effect of the pill, depo, implants (including the vaginal ring and the rod).  If you’re using the pill for other reasons (not for contraception) you can use Fem21 so long as you’re using a barrier method for contraception (i.e condoms or a diaphragm) if you’re sexually active.  Fem21 is safe to use in conjunction with IUD’s (intra uterine devices). It may also be of benefit to have a 3 month break off the pill and have a reset / hormonal cleanse with Fem21, you can then resume the pill when you’re ready.

Q: Is it normal to feel worse before I feel better? Is this a detox?

A: In the first 2 weeks of commencing Fem21 it’s quite normal for your body to go through a detoxification process if needed, to rebalance your health and hormones.  Ideally continue to use Fem21 to see this process of cleansing, detoxification & rebalancing through to the other side. You can adjust your dose to cope better if needed (i.e. reduce to a 1/2 scoop). Your body will be happy & healthy having cleansed the toxic burden that it was previously carrying.  Temporary symptoms may include: changes in bowel frequency, bloating, headaches, fatigue, skin breakouts, fluid retention or nausea.  Remember to rest when necessary, drink plenty of water to flush, and eat clean.  Don’t worry if you don’t experience a detoxification effect, everyone is different.  If you feel you’re experiencing negative side effects from taking Fem21 please stop immediately and discuss with your health care practitioner.

Q: How long until I notice a difference in how I’m feeling?

A: Some women have reported that they feel better within the first week of starting Fem21.  However it’s recommended to stay on Fem21 consistently for a minimum of 3 months to allow for your hormones to rebalance.  After this point you can stay on Fem21 to maintain hormone balance, general health & wellbeing long-term or as needed.

Q: When is the best time to take Fem21?

A: Fem21 can be taken at anytime, depending on when suits your routine best.  It doesn't have any stimulatory ingredients so you can take it in the evenings if you wish.  It also doesn't need to be taken with food like some other supplements.  However please consider that everyone is different and if you're particularly sensitive with either feeling nauseous or having difficulty sleeping you may find it better to have Fem21 in the mornings with food.

Q: Is there a danger with taking Black Cohosh, I’ve heard it’s bad for your liver? What dose of Black Cohosh is there in Fem21?

A: After reviewing the research with Black Cohosh and liver damage it’s been disproved that there is a harmful connection.  However if you have concerns over your liver health then please discuss use of Fem21 with a health care practitioner.  Fem21 contains Black Cohosh at a very low dose which in my clinical experience has been an excellent herb for hormones & oestrogen balance.  Fem21 also contains herbs to protect and support better liver health. Fem21 contains Black Cohosh at 40mg / serve.  If you’d like to read about the cases of liver damage this is referenced article written by Prof. Kerry Bone on Black Cohosh and liver health please follow this link: https://www.townsendletter.com/Dec2006/phyto1206.htm

Q: I’ve noticed that I’m feeling different emotionally since starting on Fem21, is this normal?

A: Many women report that they feel better emotionally when starting on Fem21 especially since it can help support the adrenals and your body’s stress response.  This may feel like improved mental clarity, feeling more settled, calm and happy.  Some women experience hormonally fuelled emotional changes throughout their cycle, which may include anxiety or depression.  Fem21 may be helpful in addressing the physical hormonal triggers behind these emotional shifts.  However it’s good to look at this time holistically and implement strategies that support your mind, body & heart.  This may include working with a psychologist or counsellor, implementing meditation or discussing your individual needs with your health care practitioner.  In some rare cases we’ve had reports of women feeling worse emotionally with Fem21, please use your own discretion, if you notice a correlation between taking Fem21 and a worsening of anxiety or depression then please stop taking it.  I would also recommend that you seek further advice from your health care practitioner or psychologist as to why this may be occurring and to ensure you’re being fully supported at this time.

Q: Can I take Fem21 after menopause?

A: Yes, Fem21 can be used throughout menopause and afterwards.  Also if your also using HRT or Bio-Identical hormone replacement Fem21 can help you to transition off these.  After the ovaries stop ovulation and a period ceases women still produce hormones just in lower levels and not cyclicly (oestrogen from stored fat and progesterone from the adrenals).  Hormone metabolism in the liver still needs to be supported along with Adrenal support.  There is no issues with taking Fem21 long term, however listen to your body if you feel ready to stop.

Q: I’m Gluten Sensitive, can I take Fem21?

A: Fem21 contains Wheatgrass & Barley Grass which are Gluten Free.  Wheatgrass& Barley Grass are derived from the sprout and Gluten is only found in the kernel of the seed. Harvesting Wheatgrass & Barley Grass before the seed has had time to form. The Wheatgrass and Barley Grass used in Fem21 is batch tested to be gluten free. Fem21 is safe for Coeliac or Gluten Sensitive individuals. 

Q: Can I take Fem21 with other supplements?  

A: I would recommend checking with your health care practitioner i.e. Naturopath to ensure your not doubling up on herbs.  Generally Fem21 is safe to take with other supplements especially nutritional supplements.  I often recommend Fem21 with a Multi B in the morning, essential fatty acids, iron, zinc or magnesium when extra support is needed.  

Q: I’m on Medication can I take Fem21? 

A: I would recommend checking with your doctor or health care practitioner to see if it’s safe for you to take Fem21 with your prescribed medication.  Generally the main interaction with Fem21 is with synthetic hormones such as the pill, implanon etc.  Fem21 is safe to use most other medications (i.e. thyroxine, anti-depressants, nexium) however we recommend separating the dose by at least 2 hours.

Q: I’m starting IVF, can I use Fem21?

A: It’s not recommended to use Fem21 in conjunction with an IVF cycle as it may theoretically increase your risk of ovarian hyper stimulation due to the herbs.  You can however use Fem21 in preparation for IVF or other assisted reproductive techniques ideally for 3 months prior.  After the stimulation phase & egg pick up during IVF you may use Fem21 to coincide with embryo transfer and up to 12 weeks of pregnancy (at a reduced dose).  Please discuss any concerns with your Health Care Practitioner.  Fem21 can also be used after a cycle of IVF that didn’t result in a pregnancy to help your body recover from the high doses of synthetic hormones.

Q: Can I use Fem21 in a cycle with clomid or letrazole?

A: Yes you can use Fem21 in conjunction with cycle that you are using clomid or letrazole for inducing ovulation.  However wait until you’ve finished your course of medication (i.e. don’t use Fem21 on the 3-5 days that you’re taking the medication) and then continue on Fem21 throughout the rest of your cycle.

Q: Can I use Fem21 if I am pregnant?

A:  It’s not recommended for continued use during pregnancy.  However if you're under the care of a practitioner you can use Fem21 up until 12 weeks at a reduced dose of 1/2 scoop / day.   However I generally recommend weaning off during the first trimester.  After 12 weeks of pregnancy it is recommended that you do not use Fem21. 

Q: I’m breastfeeding can I use Fem21?

A: It depends on the situation. If you are establishing breastfeeding with a newborn I wouldn’t recommend using Fem21.  However after 6 months of breastfeeding and your baby is in a well established feeding pattern you can start on Fem21.  It’s safe to use after this time, especially if your baby has started on solids.  If you feel that Fem21 reduces your milk supply then please discontinue use.

Q: I’ve recently started on Fem21 and now my periods are different and my cycle length has changed, is this normal?

A: Within the first 3 months of commencing Fem21 it’s great to see changes in your cycles & periods, this means your body is sensitive and is responding to the formulation.  This is part of your hormones rebalancing and moving from a place of being out of balance to an optimal level.  This rebalancing can be a bit like a rollercoaster as things are shifting for you.  Temporary symptoms may include spotting, changes in period flow and changes in cycle length. Just ride this process out as the formulation supports your body to better health.  The time frame this takes to get back into a regular cycle & flow with menstruation is different for each individual however it’s recommend to stay on it for a minimum of 3 months. Please discuss any concerns with your health care practitioner. 

Q: My skin has broken out in pimples since starting Fem21, why is this?

A:  Skin breakouts can often be a symptom of your body clearing excess toxins & hormonal metabolites.  Especially if you are noticing breakouts around the mouth or along the jawline.  Also blind/deep cystic pimples are hormonally fuelled. As your body cleanses and rebalances your skin will improve however please be patient with this process as it doesn’t happen overnight.  I also recommend for a lot of women with hormonal breakouts to include some Zinc into their regime as this can work with Fem21 for faster results and healing.  If acne is a long term issue please remember it’s what is happening internally as well as your skin care regime which can make the biggest difference.

Q: What does it taste like?

A: Fem21 contains a combination of herbs & greens which are bitter however this is balanced out by some nice tasting ingredients which are sweet like stevia, raspberry, cinnamon, licorice & pomegranate.  If you’d like to try Fem21 for 5 days for $5 please head over the shop or home page.

Q: Why is it so thick?

A: Fem21 is thick because it is very high in both soluble & insoluble fibre.  This soaks up water and if not drunk quickly will turn thick & gluggy.  This is how it’s working in the digestive track to clean & sweep toxins from our system and sluggish bowels.  This fibre also works to bind up hormonal metabolites and toxins dumped by the liver and carry them out of the body to prevent recycling and additional stress on our system.  Fibre is also food for our good bacteria and allows the probiotics in Fem21 to continue with grow.

Q: I want the benefits but really dislike the texture of Fem21, any suggestions?

A: You may also want to try one of the smoothie recipes on our blog.  If you take Fem21 on an empty stomach or are not used to taking greens with a fibrous texture you may react with a gagging reflex.  If this occurs please ensure that you drink plenty of water and take Fem21 immediately before or after food.  You can also add Fem21 as a sprinkle on top of muesli, in smoothies, in protein/bliss balls etc.

Q: Why aren’t the doses of the individual ingredients listed?

A: Fem21 is classified by the Food Standards Australia as a “functional food” and therefore it’s not a supplement regulated by the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Australia) these two governing bodies have different labelling requirements.  Fem21 contains whole food & plant/herbal ingredients.  Food labelling requirements state that you must list the ingredients from the highest to the lowest quantity.  If you’d like specific dosage information please see our nutritional panel page. If reading the table of ingredients on the packaging or in the brochure it reads from top to bottom and left to right, from highest to lowest quantities.

Q: Is Fem21 a meal replacement?

A: No Fem21 is not a meal replacement.  Please incorporate it with your normal diet.

Q: How many CFU (colony forming units) of probiotics are in Fem21?

The CFU count for the multi strain probiotic is 300 million / 1g.  Therefore in x 1 serve of Fem21 there would be 240 million CFU as it contains 800mg per serve.

Q: What strains of probiotics are in Fem21 and why doesn’t have to be refrigerated?

A: Listed below are the strains of probiotics found in Fem21, these probiotics are cultured from organic fermented foods.  The fermentation process allows for the sustained growth of the good bacteria. They continue to feed & multiply from the Fructo-oligosaccharides contained in the fruit & fibre.  This process means that it isn’t reliant on low (4°C) stable temperatures to maintain potency of the probiotics and can therefore stay out of the fridge but still in a cool place (don’t leave it in the car).

Lactic acid bacteria:

  • Lactobacillus acidophilus
  • Bifidobacterium bifidum
  • Lactobacillus casei
  • Lactobacillus helveticus
  • Lactobacillus bulgaricus
  • Lactobacillus leichmannii
  • Lactobaciullus caucasicus
  • Lactobacillus lactis
  • Lactobacillus fermenti
  • Lactobacillus brevis
  • Lactobacillus plantarum
  • Lactobacillus delbreukii

Yeast Strains:

  • Saccharomyces boulardii
  • Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Q: I feel really bloated/gassy when taking Fem21, why is this?

It’s not unusual to experience this side effect when taking Fem21 as it’s quite high in fibre. You may have some dysbiosis going on which is an imbalance in the microbiome of your gut.  I would suggest trialing a month of high strength probiotics, apple cider vinegar (2 teaspoons/250ml) in water and a reduced dose of a ½ scoop of Fem21.  After this month resume a full scoop daily and see how you feel.

Q: I have hyperthyroidism can I take Fem21?

Yes and No, it depends on the individual.  I usually recommend if your thyroid is unstable and overactive that you don't take Fem21 as the Bladderwrack may be stimulatory.  However if you have Grave's or hyperthyroidism and are on medication and it's controlled well then you may be able to introduce Fem21 without any issues.  I would recommend that you are monitored by a qualified health care professional who can check your thyroid levels via symptom analysis and blood tests regularly, especially in the first 3 months.

Q: How much iodine is in a dose of Fem21?

Per dose Fem21 may contain up to 120mcg of iodine which is provided from the Bladderwrack.  This may vary so if you're sensitive to iodine I would recommend that you first trial Fem21 before committing to a full month's supply.

Q: I have amenorrhea is there a special dose regime to use with Fem21?

If you're currently not having a regular cycle or your period is absent then you can use Fem21 to help get your body back on track and ovulating again.  I recommend cycling the dose of Fem21 with the moon.  Starting from the New Moon have 1 scoop / day for 2 weeks, then from the Full Moon have 2 scoops / day 1 in the morning and 1 at night for another 2 weeks. Then repeat this cycle until your period arrives, then drop back to 1 scoop / day for maintenance of your hormonal health.  It's also helpful to look at underlying common causes of amenorrhea such as being underweight, diet (low calorie intake &/or low intake of goods fats), eating disorders, high stress, over exercising, post pill, post CVID vx or infection.  I'd highly recommend working with a health care practitioner who can develop a plan specific for you and monitor your progress. 

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