We all wish we could stay home cozied up under a ton of blankets when our period comes, but it’s likely that you will have those days where you have to go to school in spite of your period. Here are a few tips to make that time of the month more manageable!
1. Come prepared.
Tampon party!
Always have your pads, tampons, panty liners and pain relievers (friendly reminder to not take any medication that was not prescribed to you!) with you. What I like to do is carry everything that I need on my period with me at all times, so that I never find myself in an uncomfortable situation. (Fun fact, I once found myself on a plane and another time on a train without pads and it was NOT fun). And if you think they won’t be useful to you, there will definitely be a time when one of your friends forgets their hygiene products and you will save their day.
2. Have your favorite snacks with you.
Being on your period is the perfect excuse to eat all that chocolate and call it a day.
For me, I know I like to have chocolate with me when I’m on my period because it helps with PMS, but it might be different for you. Just find something that makes you feel better and motivated and have it with you when your period comes!
3. Know when to expect your period.
Mark your calendar!
I have this really cool app called Clue on my phone that helps me to keep track of my menstrual cycle (and keep that information secure, of course). You can also simply pay attention to your body and look at the symptoms that you experience before your period arrives so you know what to expect in the following days.
4. Drink tea.
*sips tea*
I love drinking tea and herbal infusions (chamomile is really good) while on my period because they ease my cramps.
5. Wear comfortable clothes.
If only I looked like James Franco when I’m on my period.
You don’t want to be more uncomfortable than you already are because you’re wearing heels or a sweater that itches or super tight jeans. Save yourself the trouble and go for some comfortable leggings and a big sweater. Some people like to actually dress well because it makes them feel motivated but I personally find that it helps me to wear simple, comfy things when I’m already struggling with cramps.
6. Work out.
Just do it.
Sometimes sitting in uncomfortable positions all day at school can make your cramps worse. I like to take slow walks in the nearest park with my music on, it helps with cramps and it is also relaxing to get some fresh air.
7. Don’t eat greasy food.
Amy Poehler is my spirit animal tbh.
Save yourself the trouble and skip the greasy fries from the cafeteria when you’re on your period because they WILL make your cramps worse. Stick to healthy food and drink lots of water as well.
And remember, if you feel like you can’t even walk to school because your cramps are so bad, know that it’s okay to stay home. Your health is more important than your grades! Also, if your period cramps aren’t manageable, you won’t be able to focus on the content of your classes anyway, so it’s better to just take the day off to take care of yourself.
Good luck with your period, it’ll be over soon!
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