Having a monthly period is pretty normal and nothing to be embarrassed about.
However, this also brings discomfort that most of us experience during the first few days of our period. I personally suffer from dysmenorrhea and headache, while others are feeling bloated and irritable. These symptoms are due to the hormones your body releases during menstruation that cause the uterus to contract so it can shed it’s lining. Obviously, we have nothing to do with it. But what we can do is to look for ways on how to overcome these symptoms and be comfortable while on your period.
Wear comfortable clothes
Choose clothes that are comfortable especially around your waist and belly. This will help you relax and breathe comfortably. Select underwear that can hold your sanitary napkin in place. You can look for the old underwear that you won’t mind if they get stained. Or, you might also consider buying Knixteen, a menstrual underwear that will protect you all day – whether you are active, or just staying comfortable during your period.
Eat nutritious food
Try to eat at least five portions a day of fruits and vegetables.
Opt for low-sodium foods that are rich in calcium, zinc and healthy oils such as omega-3. These may help to keep your levels of prostaglandin production in check and reduce bloating. Craving for sweets and junk food? A big NO as these can make your period symptoms worse. Avoid caffeine as possible and replace it with ginger ale, herbal tea or just plain water.
Stay healthy and active
Try light exercise such as yoga, stretching or walking to help increase your blood flow which cuts down on cramping. It is also a great way to keep you moving and be fit.
Treat menstrual cramps with warmth
Have you tried using a hot water bottle to relieve menstrual cramps? I do! Heat therapy over targeted areas increases blood flow and delivers oxygen to the cells which can soothe your muscles, easing your body’s discomfort and minimizing cramps.
Get a good night sleep
It is normal to feel more tired during your period so go ahead and give in to that extra sleep. So you wake up the next day feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
I had no idea that junk food actually could make your period worse! I definitely agree that yoga is of great benefit though.
These are some great tips, I used to hate getting my period as it was so painful. Anything little that can help you through is a plus for me.
Will check out the Knixteen! I have the WORST periods & need any extra help I can get. 😮
I think staying active would be the most effective with me! I used to have painful period and going for regular runs made it way better!
I always try to stay active during my time of the month. Comfortable clothing is key especially when out in the public. To ease pain I try to take pain killers a day or two of estimated start day. Heat is also effective to ease the pain of menstrual cramps.
I always appreciated having dance class when I had my period because it was the exercise I needed to make the pain get a little better. Great tips!
No one has ever enjoyed this time of month. Anything to help make it easier is okay with me.
I’m on a hunt for ways my grand daughter can stay comfortable. I’ll have to try your tips. She’s 10 and throws up and everything else while on her cycle. We took her to ER last time and they said it’s normal for some people after checking her for everything imaginable. I can’t imagine dealing with this every month without some ways to help. I’m going to get a water bottle and try that too.
These are great reminders for some of our worst days.. I always try to stay active while on mine as I noticed a long time ago, it goes smoother when I am!
Good tips! I just like to dress comfortable. I get so bloated and bad cramps. I try to stick to low sodium foods and that helps.
Keep moving is one of my habits when in period. It avoids me from the cramps. Nice tips here.
These are very good tips for women. It’s not easy to deal with period as it is. I always make sure to wear comfy clothes that will allow me to move around without getting paranoid about my period.