Periods are already not a pleasant experience, but according to gynecologists, there are certain things that can make the situation worse. Here are five situations to avoid when you are in the midst of your menstrual cycle.
Fatigue, irritability, cramps, bloating… For many women, menstruation brings along varying degrees of discomfort. You probably have your own tricks to ease these symptoms on a daily basis. But did you know that certain habits can exacerbate the situation? To better navigate your menstrual cycle, here are five things not to do during your period!
Overwashing
Even though menstrual blood doesn’t smell like roses, resist the temptation to spray deodorant on your underwear. Products that contain fragrance, such as soap, body wash, or special intimate wet wipes for women, can irritate your vagina and disrupt the pH balance and vaginal flora. Opt for warm water and fragrance-free products made from natural ingredients instead.
Wearing overly tight clothes
This first recommendation may seem obvious, but we sometimes forget about it. It is advisable to avoid wearing overly tight clothes during your period. Say no to slim jeans and high-waisted pants that might compress your abdomen!
By doing so, you can feel more comfortable in your body, as well as minimize the risk of staining your favorite clothes with blood!
Suffering for too long
Don’t wait until you’re curled up on the couch before taking a painkiller that takes time to kick in. If you know that you experience pain before and/or during your period, discuss it with your doctor in advance and get a suitable treatment prescribed, to be taken even before the cramps begin.
Forgetting about iron during meals
During menstruation, we lose a varying amount of blood depending on the flow. In this blood, there is iron, a nutrient that we need to transport oxygen in the body. Since our iron reserves decrease during this period, seek advice from your doctor to recommend the foods to consume or supplements to take.
Going to bed too late
Lack of sleep is detrimental to health. When you have your period, you are inevitably more tired. If you don’t get enough sleep, your body will increase its production of cortisol (the stress hormone), which will lead to an imbalance and have a negative impact on your menstruation. Therefore, do not shorten your sleep time during this delicate period. If you experience insomnia during your period, know that there are simple and natural solutions to promote good sleep initiation and regain quality sleep.
