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| -This post is in collaboration with Cheeky Pants- |
For many of us, periods are the most dreaded time of the month. Between cramps, fatigue, headaches, acne, low moods, a loss of appetite and other uncomfortable symptoms, there isn’t much to look forward to. The good news is that to help make your period more bearable, we’ve compiled our top tips to help you have a better period.
Understand Your Cycle
First things first, understand what your “normal” period is. The average menstrual cycle is about 25-30 days, but it can be as short as 21 days or longer than 35. When you get your period, it’s normal to bleed anywhere from 2 to 7 days, and for the blood to be red or brown. Most people will experience high energy during ovulation, and low energy during menstruation.
Tracking your period with an app like Flo or Clue means you can keep on top of when you are due (no surprises!), as well as understand your symptoms better. This includes what your “normal” is — and if it is normal, for your peace of mind — through the whole month.
If you have irregular periods or experience abnormal pain, this isn’t always a sign of a problem, but it can be a good idea to see a doctor.
Exercise
I know, I know, the last thing you want to do on your period is move from the comfort of your sofa. However, exercise is known to release feel-good endorphins which function as a mood booster and pain reliever. Do some yoga or go for a walk, run or swim (period-proof swimwear is your friend) and reap the benefits. You’ll (probably) feel better for it.*
* Don’t force yourself to exercise if you’re exhausted though — more on that in point six.
Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods
As reported in You Can Have a Better Period, a study by the University of Birmingham showed that 20 percent of women studied experienced menstrual cramping severe enough to interfere with daily activities. Although you can take painkillers to relieve the pain, anti-inflammatory foods have also been reported to ease menstrual cramps. Ginger, oily fish, flaxseed, walnuts and leafy greens might help make your periods less severe.
Eating foods high in iron (beans, spinach, nuts, dried fruit) and vitamin D (egg yolks and fortified food) have also been reported to remineralize you, replenish your nutrients, help prevent anaemia — all of which can worsen with blood loss — and cramps. It’s never a bad idea to make sure you have enough vitamin C, B vitamins, magnesium and zinc too.
Invest in Period Underwear
Comfort and secureness is crucial during your period, and traditional period pads and tampons don’t often promise that. The good news is that frequent changes, leaks, discomfort, chafed skin and sanitary waste can be a thing of the past. There is an alternative to help you have a better (and more comfortable) period: period pants. Bleed, wash and reuse, and feel dry and secure while you do it. Specialising in 'Simple Reusables Alternatives' since 2008, Cheeky Pants are our go-to for period protection.
Dry
Feel dry with a moisture
wicking layer.
Comfortable
An absorbent layer that can hold
the equivalent of up to5 tampons.
Secure
Feel more confident thanks to
our leak-proof layer.
Cool
Feel cool with the
breathable fabric.
Prefer a pad? Reusable period pads promise a no-chafe, rustle-free and cost-effective
alternative to traditional pads. More absorbent, more comfortable, and better for the environment — an all-round better period.
Stay Hydrated
Feeling bloated and sluggish? The more water you drink, the better. According to Dr. Segura, “drinking at least eight glasses of water per day can help to relieve bloating, muscle cramps, and fatigue” when you’re on your period.
It is also best to avoid alcohol and caffeine (where possible!) when you’re on your period as this can worsen dehydration, and contribute to menstrual cramps.
Allow Time to Rest
Don’t be afraid to rest. When you start your period, your hormones and energy are at the lowest they’ll be all cycle. This "inner winter phase" requires rest and replenishment, and forcing yourself to exercise or be productive (whatever that might look like for you), can make things worse.
Schedule in some downtime where you can, and make sure you get plenty of sleep.
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Written by Holly, for Cheeky Pants.
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