Tired of super uncomfortable, crappy periods? Aren’t you sick of cramps having you doubled over in pain? We all know that periods suck, but there are a couple tricks you can try to make sure that your periods don’t suck that bad.
You are what you eat.
You all know this age old phrase and it’s extremely true! I know that you’re craving chocolate, cheeseburgers, and basically any other food that’s bad for you but don’t give in to your cravings. Opt for more healthy choices such as fruits and vegetables, and maybe even a fresh salad to replace that burger. Eating junk food increases the amount of water retained in your body, and only fills you up on empty calories. Also, stay away from coffee and chocolate, because according to Dr. Brauer, “Coffee and chocolate have caffeine, which is a vasoconstrictor. It causes blood vessels feeding the uterus to tighten, making cramping worse.”
Let’s get physical, physical.
While it may seem easier to curl up into a ball, get super cozy under a ton of blankets and binge-watch your favorite Netflix series – don’t. As wild as it sounds you actually should try to be more active during the week of your period. According to Melisa Holmes, M.D. and OB-GYN, “Exercise triggers your brain to release endorphins, which are your body’s natural pain reliever.” So basically if you work out while you feel crappy, you’ll end up feeling better! This has also helped some girls with making their cycle end sooner so the next time you feel like laying down, get up and go to the gym, for a walk, dance around, something to make you feel better.
Make it hot.
Taking a warm bath or using a heating pad are great ways to help your cramps and to alleviate some of the pain that comes with your period. According to Marie Claire, a study conducted by scientists from University College London found that applying heat doesn’t just provide relief by coziness, but also functions like a painkiller, deactivating pain at a molecular level. So the next time your cramps are on 1000, grab a warm water bottle, a heating pad, or jump in the tub and your cramps will go away in no time.
Grab some meds.
Don’t just sit there in pain. Only you know how your body feels; if the pain is unbearable go to your nearest Walgreens or Rite Aid and grab some Tylenol, Midol, or Advil. If those don’t work, talk to your doctor to see what they can recommend for you. Certain doctors may prescribe you birth control, or a prescription strength ibuprofen to help you with your pain.
DRINK WATER.
I can’t stress this one enough! Don’t load your body up on sugary drinks, soda, teas etc., but instead opt for water. Water cleanses your system from the inside out; it’ll help clear up some of the acne you may be dealing with, help your period pass easier, and help you feel better at the same time. Grab a cute, refillable bottle and stay hydrated.
Treat yo’ self.
Get your nails done. Go buy yourself something nice. Take a day to yourself. Whatever is going to make you feel good, do that. Make sure you take some me time to relax and unwind whether it be by yourself or with your friends. Treat yo’ self girl.
So when it’s that time of the month again, don’t forget to think about these tips. Periods already suck, but these can help to make sure they don’t suck that bad.