As much as we hate getting our periods every month, here are some Her Campus hacks to make the process go a little more smoothly (and maybe even a little bit more fun!):
1. Thanks to the Gustavus student group The Tampon Team, you can find complimentary feminine hygiene products in Gustavus restrooms! If you ever find yourself in an unexpected “code red” situation, don’t worry- The Tampon Team has you covered!
The Tampon Team’s Complimentary Feminine Hygiene Products can be found in the Lund women’s locker room, and in both the upper and lower level women’s restrooms.
2. Getting your period is sometimes referred to as receiving Mother Nature’s “gift,” so why not treat it like one? With a subscription to Monthly Gift, not only will you be able to track your ovulation and menstrual cycle patterns with a user-friendly app, but you will also receive a Monthly Gift Little Black Box in the mail every month filled with customized tampons, pads, liners, and chocolate treats the week before your period arrives.
3. In addition to worrying about a constant blood flow, periods often mean cramps (cringe). Whether it’s your lower back or abdomen, heat helps relieve the pain. Head into the Gustavus Health Service office in the lower level of campus center to pick up a free heating pad! All you have to do it put it in the microwave for fifteen seconds and it’s ready to use. Awesome, right? (Not to mention that it can also act as an ice pack if you stick it in the freezer!)
4. Even though we sometimes want to just curl up with a tub of cookie dough and a bag of chips during our time of the month, exercise is actually one of the best things you can do while you’re on your period! Exercise helps to break down prostaglandins, chemicals that make your uterus contract and cause cramping. Not only that, but exercise releases natural endorphins, which can help you avoid mood swings that often accompany your period. So, grab a friend and take a walk through the arb — your uterus will thank you!
And there you have it, ladies. Happy hacking!