Editorial standards
How we report
Women deserve health journalism that is accurate, transparent about uncertainty, and free of hype. These are the standards we hold ourselves to.
Sources
Research stories are based on primary sources — peer-reviewed papers, registered clinical trials, and official statements from regulators and health authorities — and link to them directly. We never invent studies, statistics, quotes, or credentials.
How we label evidence
Not all evidence is equal. A finding in cells or mice is a reason for more research, not proof that something works in women. Our articles distinguish approved treatments from investigational ones, human trials from animal and laboratory studies, and associations from demonstrated cause and effect, and every article ends with the research behind it. These are the kinds of evidence we distinguish:
- Human trials
- Randomized controlled trials in people.
- Human observational
- Studies that observe people; can't prove cause.
- Mixed human evidence
- Some human trials, inconsistent or limited.
- Animal studies
- Results in animals may not carry over to people.
- Laboratory
- Cells or tissue in a lab; earliest-stage evidence.
- Regulatory
- A decision or guidance from a health authority.
- Clinical guidance
- Expert society consensus or guideline.
Peptides and experimental treatments
We distinguish clearly between medicines approved for specific uses, supplements, and experimental or gray-market compounds. We do not present unapproved peptides as established or safe treatments, and we do not give dosing advice for them.
Dates and updates
Every article shows the date we published it. Research stories also say when the underlying study, trial result, or regulatory decision was published or announced, so you can tell new findings from new coverage of older ones. When we make a substantive change, we show an “Updated” date. We never change publication dates to make older stories look new.
Drafts
Stories marked Draft are still in editorial review and have not been published. Their facts and figures are still being checked.
Bylines
Every article is bylined. Each of our six desks has one consistent byline:
- Claire Bennett, Metabolic Health Correspondent — Metabolism & Body Composition
- Sophie Laurent, Skin & Healthy Aging Editor — Skin & Healthy Aging
- Natalie Brooks, Energy & Performance Writer — Energy & Recovery
- Elena Morgan, Women's Hormonal Health Writer — Hormones & Midlife
- Maya Chen, Science & Medical Research Correspondent — Peptide Research & Regulation
- Olivia Hayes, Health & Wellness Editor — Everyday Health & Wellness
When we describe someone as an expert, we state their real credentials.
Corrections
When we get something wrong, we fix it promptly and note the correction at the end of the article.
Independence
Her Next Chapter does not currently carry advertising, sponsored content, or affiliate links. If that changes, sponsored or affiliate content will always be clearly labeled, and commercial partners will have no say over our reporting.
Medical disclaimer
Our articles are for general education and are not medical advice. They can't take into account your health history. Always talk with a qualified clinician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, or peptide.