10 Ways to Make Your Period Suck Less

Whether you like it or not, if you're a woman, you get your period almost every month. From the time of your first cycle until menopause, the average woman has about 450 periods! This adds up to about 3,500 days—or TEN years—of bleeding!

We know this sounds pretty grim, but rather than pretend it's not happening, we want to give you our expert tips on how to make those 3500 days the best they can be!

Start tracking your cycle

There's nothing worse than being out and about and unexpectedly getting your period. Instead of making a DIY sanitary pad out of toilet paper every month, we recommend being prepared. Start tracking your cycle with one of the many apps available. Many will even give you alerts to let you know your period is coming, so you can plan accordingly! (Not sure which app is right for you? Check out our blog post featuring our top picks for cycle tracking apps!)

Keep a spare pair of pants on hand

Even the best-laid plans can sometimes go awry. Even if you're completely aware of your cycle, leaks can't always be avoided. Consider keeping a spare pair of pants in your bag so you're not stuck in an awkward situation all day.

Reduce your coffee consumption

We know you can feel extra tired during your period, so it can be tempting to reach for caffeine. But caffeine isn't always a good idea. Why? Read more about how coffee affects your hormones!

Extra iron

When you're menstruating and bleeding heavily, your iron levels can become low. Resist the temptation to reach for that greasy burger. Instead, boost your iron levels by eating plenty of green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale.

Plan your period snacks

Craving chips more during your period? We know, cravings can be more pronounced in the days before and during your period. Be careful with salt, as it can cause you to retain more fluid, resulting in bloating.

Instead, plan ahead. Have plenty of period-friendly snacks on hand. We love things like nuts, bananas, and a little bit of dark chocolate. Dark chocolate contains magnesium, an interesting mineral responsible for many important functions in your body.

Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C

Vitamin B6 is a powerhouse! It contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, the normal functioning of the nervous system, normal psychological function, the normal functioning of the immune system, the reduction of fatigue, the regulation of hormonal activity, and much more. You can find it in foods like turkey, fish, chicken, nuts, bananas, potatoes, and eggs.

Vitamin C is also an interesting vitamin that can help alleviate all sorts of ailments. Stock up on citrus fruits, cranberry juice, and if you're a fan, add some Brussels sprouts.

Drink plenty of water

When you're menstruating, your estrogen levels are low, which means you retain less water. Too little water in your body can make you weak or irritable. It can also cause headaches and make your skin feel tight and dry.

When you're menstruating, it's especially important to drink plenty of water. Carry a water bottle with you and aim for 2-3 liters per day. You can also get some extra water by drinking tea. Many types of tea have traditionally been used for menstrual cramps, especially peppermint, ginger, or cinnamon.

Extend your snooze time

Get some extra Zzzs when you're on your period (as if you need an excuse?!) Sleep is important for so many bodily functions, so take care of yourself and get your rest.

Move!

You might feel like curling up on the sofa with a hot water bottle and Netflix, but a little exercise can do wonders for your body. When you exercise, your body produces endorphins. These feel-good hormones can help relieve cramps and give you an energy boost. You don't have to do anything intense, like running, to reap the benefits. A walk in nature, a mindful yoga session, or a walk with the dog will do the trick.

Want to learn more about how to exercise according to your cycle? Check out our blog post here .

Pamper yourself

You have about 3,500 menstrual days ahead of you. That's too much time to waste on self-pity. Instead, find a way to embrace your period. It's a sign that you're a healthy, fertile goddess of a woman! Consider using your period as a time to do something nice for yourself. Book a massage, put on a clay mask, and listen to some jazz. It doesn't have to be extravagant, and it might just give you something to look forward to!

Do you have any questions about your menstrual health? Chat with us . We're here to help!