How to Ensure Comfort and Balance During Your Menstrual Cycle

Menstruation is a unique time in the female cycle, where the body demands a different rhythm. It's a phase where the ups and downs of our hormones are clearly noticeable, and it's important to listen to those signals. But what exactly happens in your body during your period? What desires arise, and how can you fulfill them so you feel comfortable, supported, and nourished?

What happens in your body during your period?

Your period marks the beginning of a new cycle. Physically, this means the uterus is shedding its lining because fertilization hasn't occurred. This process is accompanied by a number of hormonal changes that affect your physical and emotional state.

• Estrogen and progesterone drops: On the first day of your period, your estrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest. These hormones drop in the days leading up to your period, which can affect your energy levels and mood.
• Basal body temperature drops: Your basal body temperature, which typically rises during the luteal phase (the phase after ovulation), will suddenly drop just before or on the first day of your period. This is due to the decrease in progesterone.
• Your "most masculine" phase: Because both estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest levels, your hormone levels during this phase are sometimes compared to those of a man. In fact, this is a time when your hormones are more balanced between feminine and masculine, which can lead to a different focus and sometimes even greater clarity in thinking and decision-making.

The Benefits of Menstruation: Why Is It a Sign of Health?

Rather than viewing menstruation as something "annoying," it's important to understand that it's a sign that your hormonal system is functioning properly. It's a natural process that marks the end of one cycle and the beginning of a new one. Regular periods are an indication that your body is healthy and balanced, and they also have other benefits:

1. A sign of a healthy hormonal system: Menstruating every month means your body is going through hormonal changes properly. Having a regular cycle is a sign that your reproductive system is healthy.
2. A chance to reflect: Because your hormones are at their lowest, you're often more introspective during this time and more inclined to reflect on yourself and your life. This is a perfect time to pause and reflect on your emotions, your goals, and what you need to move forward. Your brain also changes throughout the cycle; during menstruation, communication between the left and right hemispheres of your brain is enhanced, which can lead to greater self-awareness and clarity of thought.
3. A reset for your body and mind: The menstrual cycle functions as a monthly reset for your body. This is a time to rest, recover, and prepare for the coming weeks of your cycle.

Comfort products that make your period more pleasant

Fulfilling your desires during your period isn't just about emotional and mental peace, but also about physical comfort. Here are some products and tips that can help make your period easier:

• Period underwear: This specially designed underwear is super absorbent and offers a comfortable, leak-free solution for your heaviest days. It keeps you feeling safe and dry without having to constantly change tampons or pads.
• Menstrual cup: For many women, a menstrual cup is a revolutionary way to manage their period. It's environmentally friendly, can stay in place for hours without leaking, and helps you feel connected to your cycle naturally.
• Heating pad or cherry stone pillow: Cramps can be one of the biggest discomforts during your period. A heating pad or cherry stone pillow can help warm your abdomen and soothe the pain. It provides immediate relief and relaxation.

Food and minerals: what does your body need extra?

During your period, you lose blood, and with it, important minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc. It's therefore crucial to adjust your diet to replenish these deficiencies and maintain stable energy levels.

• Iron: Because you lose blood, your iron levels can drop, which can lead to fatigue. Make sure you eat iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils, beets, quinoa, and red meat. Combine these foods with vitamin C-rich foods (like citrus fruits or bell peppers) to improve iron absorption.
• Magnesium: Magnesium helps your muscles relax and can reduce menstrual cramps. Foods rich in magnesium include nuts and seeds (such as almonds and pumpkin seeds), dark leafy greens, avocados, and dark chocolate.
• Zinc: This mineral plays an important role in your immune system and helps your body recover during menstruation. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, chickpeas, beans, cashews, and whole grains.

Winter of your cycle: warmth and comfort in your diet

Menstruation is often seen as the "winter" of your cycle. This is a time when your body craves warmth, both emotionally and physically. Just as you can surround yourself with soft blankets and heating pads, you can also find warmth in your food. During this phase, your body may crave comforting and warming foods. Think of:

• Hot soups: Broth-based soups, such as chicken or miso soup, are nutritious and hydrating. They replenish your minerals and provide a feeling of comfort.
• Stews: Rich stews filled with beans, lentils, root vegetables, and possibly meat or fish, provide long-lasting energy and replenish your mineral reserves.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, carrots, and parsnips provide your body with the nutrients it needs and keep you warm. They're also easily digestible, which is helpful if you're experiencing bloating.
• Comfort food: Of course, you might also crave something more "comfortable," like a hearty pasta with tomato sauce or a warming curry with rice. The most important thing is to listen to what your body needs.

Don't feel dirty: odor and your cycle

Many women notice they're more sensitive to odors during their period and may even feel their body smells different. This is completely normal. During menstruation, the pH level in your vagina changes, which can affect the odor. It's important to know that these changes are natural and have nothing to do with poor hygiene.

If you're still feeling self-conscious, you can switch to breathable, natural fabrics like cotton and products specifically designed to neutralize odors, such as period underwear. The most important thing is to embrace your body and know that these changes are temporary and completely normal.

Questions to ask yourself during your period:

1. How much rest do I need during my toughest days?
2. Do I need support from others, such as my partner or friends?
3. How can my partner, friend or colleague best support me?
4. What do I want to do or not do in terms of work or household chores?
5. Do I prefer listening to music or enjoying silence during my period?
6. Which tasks can I outsource to reduce stress?
7. Do I like to receive physical comfort, such as a hug or comfort from a loved one?
8. Do I have specific dietary needs or want to drink something specific?

Grab a pen and paper and brainstorm these questions. Dare to express your desires, and I bet you'll experience your period more pleasantly and positively.

Bet everyone around you will be happier too?

By devoting time and attention to your needs, you'll notice the rest of your cycle running more smoothly. Fewer symptoms, less stress, and a better mood are the results of taking good care of yourself during your period. Even with a busy life, it's possible to follow your desires and find balance.

Don't know where to start and have lots of questions about how to use your cycle to your advantage? Then contact Julie from Vrouw in Cyclus.

Under her guidance, you can expect to explore together how you, as a woman or girl, can find your strength throughout your cycle, enabling you to approach yourself and the world with a more gentle touch. Julie guides every woman and girl toward more energy, fewer complaints, greater feeling, and less stress.

If you'd like to talk to experts about your cycle, your desires, or what you're experiencing, chat with us. We're here for you, and our team of experts can help.