Simple things you can do to make your period less dreadful.

Hey !

This morning I woke up with a visit from my monthly friend so I thought that I'd talk about it. I am going to assume that most of my readers are female, but if you aren't a female who suffers menstrual cycles then I suggest skipping this post... Or read it to help your partner.

This post is mainly directed who , like me, suffer from heavy flows which cause a lot of cramps. I will be explaining 5 tips that help me reduce the cramps but please feel free to let me know if you do other things to make your cramps lessen in pain.

I did a little research to find out why some females have strong period pains and some of us don't even have period pains at all.  SO cramps are the evil doing of Prostaglandins, which basically are a chemical that make the muscles of the uterus contract to help in the blood flow out during your period. So if you have a heavy flow more Prostaglandins need to be released, which means more contractions so more cramps and pain.

Source : Buzzfeed

Things you could try :

1. Hot Water Bottle/Heating Pad

Explanation : Any heat to your abdomen is a SUPER YES because it will get your blood flowing and relieve cramps. Cramps are most often a result of having blood trying to pass through veins with high pressure, the heat will dilate the veins making it easier for the blood to pass.
Substitutions for this include using a cushion, or having a good soak in a bath.

2. Dark Chocolate

Explanation : It helps increase the magnesium that you are losing (and also, who doesn't love a bit of chocolate?)

3. Water

Explanation : You are constantly losing body fluids, so you need to replace that. Drinking water will also help with fatigue and bloating. Stay away from sugary drinks that might have caffeine. Caffeine actually will make your symptoms worse.

4. Bananas

Explanation : can cure cramps and headaches. It is also believed to make you feel happier.  The reason why bananas help us with cramps during our period is because they contain a mineral called Potassium, which plays a role in smooth muscle contraction.

5. Exercise

Explanation : I have no explanation for this but I once tried to get out of P.E with the excuse of cramps and my teacher wouldn't let me...and I felt so much better afterwards so I do at least a few light stretches.

But of course this isn't a good explanation so I went to my dear old buddy Google to find a proper explanation for you :

" Exercise also releases mood-boosting endorphins, which anecdotal evidence suggests might at least take your mind off discomfort or pain. And, a recent study revealed a correlation between higher levels of physical fitness and fewer PMS symptoms."

From <http://news.health.com/2015/08/13/5-things-to-know-about-exercising-during-your-period/>

Source : Tumblr

Things that might help you during your period (regardless of pain factor)

• App : Once

I downloaded this from the Google Play Store. It is super easy to use. Start keeping track of your period and the app will calculate when you are most likely next due. I have been using it for 6 months now, and I can confirm that it is accurate. You can also list down your symptoms on days.

There are so many period apps to choose from so if you use this one but don't like then you don't have to worry.

• Period Kit

This is simply a list of items that you should have with you when on your period (or expecting your period). If you have an irregular period, having this with you at all times might be a little lifesaver.

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1. Extra Pads/Tampons
2. Panty liners (Just in case your tampon isn't enough)
3. Feminine Wipes (this is optional but I feel better using these rather than a tissue)
4. Spare panties !!!
5. Pain Killer.
6. Favourite Period Snack.

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I hope that this post helped you. Let me know your tips and tricks for a less stressful visit from Aunt Flow !

Until next time, lovelies.

~Aby

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