Sometimes, that time of the month can be a wild week with its intense cramps, strange cravings, and awful bloating. But following certain tips can help you skip the discomfort and pain. All you need to do is keep these dos and don'ts in mind the next time Aunty Flo comes to visit you.
Do: Workout
Even the most minimal physical activity can feel like a chore during periods but if you work through the initial tiredness, you'll realize that working out when menstruating is one of the best things you can do for your body. Exercise relieves aching joints and painful cramps. Plus, the sweet sense of sweaty satisfaction even during the most tiresome week of the month is victorious enough.
Don't: Wax
During one's period, the estrogen production of the body goes haywire. This decreases the threshold of pain that it can endure, which makes it the worst possible time for anything painful. This means waxing is out of the question as well as laser hair removal, dental work, and getting a tattoo. Push it to next week.
Do: Change Often
No matter how wrapped up you get during your workday, make regular pad changes a priority. Set a phone reminder for them if necessary. Change your pad or tampon every three to four hours (even more frequently if your flow is heavy) or else, you're increasing your chances of infection in the sensitive area.
Don't: Always Indulge Cravings
You might feel like it's okay to give in during your period and scarf down the chips and chocolates, but make sure you set a limit. Salt and sugar-rich food products may taste good but will only add to the bloating and severity of your period symptoms. Indulge just a bit but not every craving. Try to avoid dairy products no matter how much you’re craving a super-cheesy pizza or buttery snacks. Remember that dairy products can lead to irritable bowel movements.
Ditch caffeine as it can worsen period pain; go for a warm cup of tea instead. Don’t forget to add some veggies in your diet as well.
Do: Hygiene
Try to maintain your vaginal hygiene even more during this time. Wear chemical-free, non-fragrant napkins. Wash the area often and keep your vagina super-clean. But refrain from using chemical-based, fragrant cleansers.
Don't: Pain-killers
To deal with the pain, we often pop pain-killers without even consulting the physicians. Stop doing that. Try to reduce the period pain with a hot water bag, a warm bowl of soup along with other natural ways instead of pain-killers. Still need a pain-killer? Consult your doctor first, please.