Oh periods, you pain!

We’ve all been there. Painful cramps, nausea, bloating, the works. Since we are all in this together, we have complied a list of simple yet amazing suggestions to help ease that period pain and get through your day like a Rockstar!  

Do let us know which ones worked for you! Got some tips of your own? Share them with us so we can help a sister out!  

 

Stay hydrated

Feeling bloated and puffy? Have some water. This is a simple yet effective remedy to reduce bloating. The best way to keep drinking water throughout the day is to carry a refillable water bottle with you wherever you go. Be sure to try to drink at least 2 liters of water per day.

 

Keep calm and Ohm..

Engaging in some light yoga can help ease period pain. Some basic postures like the Suriya Namaskar, Cobra Pose and Bow pose are known to improve blood circulation and reduce period cramps.  

 

Break a sweat

We don’t mean intense cardio! Similar to yoga, some light exercise can also help improve blood circulation which can help reduce bloating. If you don’t feel like hitting the gym, try walking, swimming or cycling.

 

Swing that mood around!

Mood swings are a symptom of PMS. In order to deal with mood alterations, try to include wholesome foods such as Chickpeas, Soya, Yogurt, Brown Rice, Legumes etc. into your regular diet.

 

Spice isn’t all that nice

Excessive pain and irregular periods can be due to unhealthy eating patterns. When you are close to your period, try to avoid spicy and salty food. It tends to increase the risk of clotting which then leads to painful cramps.

 

Catch plenty of ZZZs

Some people feel extremely tired during their cycle. In order to get your  body and mind to rest and repair, try to get at least 8 hours of sleep a night, especially while your on your period.

 

Keep it loose!

Wearing tight, fitted clothes close to your vagina can cause increased moisture and heat which might end up irritating your skin. Comfortable cotton underwear and loose fitted clothes should be your go to outfits during your period!

 

Change your pads often

Avoid the risk of infection and toxic shock syndrome (TSS) by changing your sanitary napkins often.

 

Use heat

To ease the pain of cramps, soak in a hot bath or use a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower abdomen.

 

Time for tea

Renowned across the world for numerous health benefits, tea can sometimes help decrease period pain while helping you feel more energized. Recommended types include Ginger, Chamomile, Peppermint and Green Tea.

Cut back on Caffeine

Try to stay away from Coffee while you are on your period. Caffeine can overstimulate the digestive tract and irritate your bowels which can lead to excessive bloating.  

 

Cook at home

Try to stick to meals cooked at home over eating out while on your period. Restaurant meals can sometimes be high in sodium and include processed ingredients that flare up bloating and cramps.