Menstruation can make for a wild week with it's intense cramps, strange cravings and awful bloating. We manage to pull through, but it doesn't have to be a completely gloomy week. It is possible to have a menses which isn't always uncomfortable and painful. All you need to do is keep these dos and don'ts handy the next time aunty flo comes visiting.
Do: Workout
Even the most minimal physical activity can feel like a chore during periods but if you work through the initial tiredness, you'll realise that working out when menstruating is one of the best things you can do for your body. Exercise relieves aching joints and painful cramps. Plus, the sweet sense of sweaty satisfaction even during the most tiresome week of the month is victorious enough.
Don't: Wax
During one's period, the estrogen production of the body goes haywire. This decreases the threshold of pain that it can endure, which makes it the worse possible time for anything painful. This means waxing is out of the question as well as laser hair removal, dental work and getting a tattoo. Push it to next week.
Do: Change Often
No matter how wrapped up you get during your work day, make regular changes a priority and set a phone reminder for them if necessary. Change your pad or tampon every three to four hours (even more frequently if your flow is heavy) or else, you're increasing your chance of infection in the sensitive area.
Don't: Always Indulge Cravings
You might feel like it's okay to give in during your period and scarf down the chips and chocolate but make sure you set a limit. Salt and sugar rich foods may taste good but will only add to bloating and severity of period symptoms. Indulge just a bit but not for every craving.
Do: Have sex
Don't shy away from period sex because it's actually good for you; albeit just a bit messy. Sex while menstruating can adjust hormonal levels and uplift one's mood while orgasms can reduce the painfulness of cramps.
Don't: Forget About Hygiene
It's important to always be hygienic in the vaginal region, even more so during your period. Besides changing tampons and napkins, wash the area frequently, change undergarment regularly and keep the area dry to prevent infection.
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