6 Ways to Make Your Period Less Excruciating

Health & Medical Articles

Most women despise that time of the month. You know what we are talking about: the dreaded menstrual cycle. When you are on your period, you can experience a wide range of unpleasant symptoms, like painful cramps, moodiness, bloating, and breakouts. However, you can make things a lot easier on yourself by changing some of your lifestyle habits. Here are six effective ways to make your period less excruciating.

Eat the Right Foods to Prevent Bloat

It is common to experience bloating during your period. You can't fit into your favorite jeans and just feel lousy. If you eat the right foods, however, you can dramatically reduce bloating and feel lighter. A few days before your period, start eating more potassium-rich food, like bananas, tomatoes, and cantaloupe, to balance the fluids in your body. It is also a good idea to eat healthy fats, like chia seeds and salmon, because they help lower hormones that are responsible for bloating. In addition, try to avoid foods that cause gas, like broccoli and cabbage.

Get Moving

When you have a stomachache and are feeling irritable, exercise is probably the last thing on your mind. However, some physical activity can actually do your body a lot of good and make your menstrual cycle more pleasant. Moving around can help ease cramping and release endorphins, which may improve your mood. Don't worry—you don't have to do strenuous exercises to receive the benefits. A brisk walk around your neighborhood or dancing around in your living room can do the job.

Use Heat

Another good way to alleviate menstrual cramps is to place a heating pad on the affected area. The heat will help reduce inflammation in your muscles, thus reducing the pain. While you are lying down on the bed or couch, hold the heating pad on the area for about 15 to 20 minutes. If you do not have a heating pad at home, try soaking in a warm tub for a little bit.

Try Birth Control for Pimples

If you tend to break out at the start of your period every month, you are not alone. When you are on your menstrual cycle, your hormones can fluctuate and cause pimples on your skin. One of the most effective ways to get control of acne is to take birth-control pills. These medication can suppress the production of excess oil caused by hormone fluctuations. Ask your doctor about what birth-control method is best for your acne.

Use Ice for Headaches

Headaches are also pretty common during menstrual cycles. Your estrogen levels drop and may lead to a throbbing pain in your head. If your head starts to hurt when your period starts, you could try applying ice to the area to decrease some of the inflammation. It's a good idea to cover the ice pack in a towel to prevent your skin from getting too cold.

Get All the Rest You Can Get

Your body goes through a lot during your menstrual cycle, so it is normal to feel more tired than usual. That is why it is important to get at least eight hours of sleep every night. To make sure you rest soundly, avoid caffeinated beverages at night and do something relaxing before bedtime, such as meditating or practicing yoga.

Although your menstrual cycle is not meant to be pleasant, it does not have to be completely unbearable. If you follow these helpful tips, you can feel much better during your period. However, if you still experience painful cramps or extreme symptoms, make an appointment to see your doctor soon and get more info.

5 October 2016