6 Dos & 5 Don’ts During Periods

Menstruation

Menstruation, which we commonly call periods, means blood and tissue from your uterus coming out of the vagina. This usually happens every month.

Menstrual Cycle

Menstrual Cycle is a monthly series of changes in a woman's body for the possibility of pregnancy. About once a month, one of the ovaries releases an egg which is called ovulation. During this time, the uterus develops a new lining (endometrium) to get ready for pregnancy. When no egg is fertilized, the uterus sheds its lining. This is called the menstrual period. 

It begins in women from their early teenage years and continues until menopause (around 50 years of age).

During menstruation, almost every woman/girl has to face many problems like cramps, acne, mood swings and bloating. This can be difficult, so why make it difficult?

If you don't know, how to make your period easier, here is a list of some Dos and Don’ts you should know for more comfortable periods.

Dos During Periods

1. Eat Good - Women may experience higher-than-normal stress and extreme mood swings during their menstruation. However, by not eating certain foods and eating just right, you can feel a little comfortable and stress-free.

Eating complex carbs such as fruits, vegetables and dark chocolate, etc., regulate sugar levels. It also raises serotonin, which lifts our mood. Similarly, you can eat calcium-rich food (broccoli, kale, and natural yoghurt) and magnesium (tofu and peanuts).

The most important thing is to stay well hydrated, so drink lots of water.

2. Get Enough Sleep - Female hormones are lowest during the menstrual period and your estrogen level also drops. In those 5 days, your defence system is weak and your energy level is low. A minimum of 7 to 9 hours of sleep at night is required to feel fresh and energetic.

Sleep can play a very important role especially during our period, so try to sleep the hours required during your period.

3. Workout - However, we do not feel like exercising in those days and it is a common misunderstanding that working out during your period is unsafe. There is no scientific reason that you should skip workouts during periods. Studies have shown that doing light workouts can relieve the symptoms of your period.

The movement and the processes involved in each exercise give the body a rest. Apart from this, it also increases the level of endorphins, which lessens pain and improves your mood.

4. Hygiene - It is very important to wash that area, especially during those days. Use only water or neutral soap to keep the area clean. Along with washing and changing pads, change undergarments frequently and keep the area dry to avoid infection.

5. Change Frequently - Change your tampons, pads, or any other method you use every 3-4 hours. If the flow is more than normal then change more often. Doing so reduces the chances of infection in the sensitive area.

6. Sex - It is generally believed that it is not right for a woman to have sex during her period. However, many experts agree that sex during periods is actually good for you. The Orgasm helps reduce menstrual cramps and can adjust hormonal levels and increase one's mood. But don’t forget to use protection.

Don’ts During Periods

1. Junk, Sugar Rich and Salty Foods - Processed and packaged foods have high sodium content, which can cause water retention and bloat. There is more swelling in our body during those days, so the salt can increase uneasiness. The list of foods that cause more painful cramps is caffeine, chocolate (not dark), dairy (cheese and whole milk), and red meats.

2. Ignore Your Symptoms - We all know the symptoms of PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) before periods come. But don't ignore them at all! Sometimes women who experience severe symptoms of PMS may have a different reason. If you experience any severe pain before your period, talk to your health care professional.

3. Heavy Workout - It is good to do light exercise. A light exercise or yoga can help stimulate blood circulation and reduce menstrual symptoms. But if you are suffering from anaemia or stomach pain then avoid it completely.

4. Alcohol - Although alcohol may temporarily reduce cramps, there are many negative effects of consuming it during periods. Consuming alcohol in those days can make your periods irregular and the estrogen levels in the body may also increase, which can worsen the symptoms of the period.

5. These Things Too - As we mentioned, estrogen levels decrease during periods which may reduce the body's ability to bear the pain. So in these days avoid waxing, laser hair removal, dental work and getting a tattoo done. Push these types of painful work to next week.

Myths and endless stories about menstruation and its bad effects on women have also continued to scare society. Here we are promoting comfort and acceptance with better awareness. With these dos and don'ts, you can reduce the symptoms of those days.