9 of my top Period Hacks for those period cramps
Listen up ladies! Today I’ve got my top 5 period hacks that includes period cramp hacks for those who have not so nice period pains!
Having to deal with a period every month can be annoying to say the least. I feel like the phases of my cycle go by so quickly and BOOM! There I am back in the bleeding phase having to deal with stained sheets and no sleep. I know many women feel the same and even have painful and uncomfortable periods every month. This does not need to be your normal! Follow these easy period hacks to improve PMS symptoms and make your life that much easier during your period.
This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase a product through my link I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Disclaimer: This is not medical advice and should not be taken as such. I am not a doctor and do not claim to be as these are solely based on my experiences. Please consult your family doctor before considering any recommendations listed in this post. Thanks!
Hack #1: Start Cycle syncing for PMS problems
Cycle syncing is my favourite hack out of all of these because it was the most helpful in controlling my PMS problems and irregular cycles. Essentially, cycle syncing is a way of eating and exercising to help support your hormones in each phase of your cycle. Read more Here if you are unfamiliar with cycle syncing.
In summary, Women have 4 phases which are menstrual (day 1), follicular (day 5-14), ovulatory (day 15-18), and luteal (day 18- 28). Estrogen is the dominant hormone in the first 2 phases then progesterone’s takes the stage in the last 2. Foods such as dark leafy greens, fatty meat, and nuts are amazing for supporting your raising estrogen levels and complex carbs are great for the luteal phase when cravings might be more prominent.
As for exercise, the follicular phase is where you are going to do all your heavy lifts, long runs, and more intense activities as you will have the most energy and your muscle recovery is best. Once you start moving into the later half of your cycle and menstruation, energy will be low so feel free to take some rest days or do some yoga and walking.
Period HACK #2: Use a Menstrual cup
I LOVE my menstrual cup, its like a set and forget kind of tampon which is great for busy people like me. I use the Diva cup and the Lily cup but any kind of menstrual cup will work.
It Is a silicone cup that you insert into your vagina that can be left in for up to 12 hours! I like to monitor my flow so I will empty it once a day and then take it out at night. I have found the menstrual cup does not cause period cramps which is amazing!
Menstrual Cup
Period Hack #3: Period Panties
Ok OK OK I know I was skeptical about period underwear at the start too because I thought I would be wearing some kind of dipper. And it kind of is to some extent, however, period panties are a gods sent for nighttime! I hate using pads that slip and slide around then boom… my sheets are a murder scene. So, I got some boy short period underwear from Knix and they work amazingly! no leaks or spillage and I can sleep sound knowing I don’t have to do laundry the Next morning.
Tip: If you are thinking about it, I have tried to use my menstrual cup at night and it does leak! Be wary of that.
At night, you want to be the most comfortable, especially if you are experiencing period cramps! I find period underwear to be the best option for that.
Period cramp HACKS #4: take Magnesium
Magnesium is a great supplement for relaxing muscles. In terms of period cramps, taking magnesium daily has shown to prevent dysmenorrhea. Dysmenorrhea is excessive period cramping. Even if you have mild to moderate cramping magnesium works to relax the muscles in the uterus which lessens cramps.
The uterus contracts during mensuration, this is how it sheds the blood so taking a magnesium supplement can help relieve any discomfort you may have.
Period HACK #5: Drink lots of water
I bloat when I’m on my period, as do many of you. Therefore, water is your best friend when your either on or about to start your period. This will flush out any water retention you may be experiencing. But, water is not only good for flushing the body but is an essential nutrient not many of use get a lot of these days. So drink your water people!
Period cramp HACKs #6: Have some fun! (wink wink)
Having an orgasm is a stress reliever. Go and release some tension with your hubby or boyfriend if you feel in the mood! If not, grab your favourite toy and have some alone time with yourself.
OR just grab your toy if you are single like me:)
Period HACK #7: Reduce stress
Stress has shown to increase menstrual cramping. Try out some methods to reduce the stress of daily life and work to help relieve menstrual cramps. I love meditation and deep breathing. Even using imagery of your favourite place can help to calm your nervous system to help with menstrual cramping.
Period cramp HACKS #8: Exercise!
Exercise is not just for getting the heart pumping! I can also relieve period pain by getting your blood pumping and releasing endorphins to relax your muscles. I know, exercise might be the last thing you want to do but trust me, it will make you feel better!
Period HACK #9: pelvic message and pelvic stretches
studies have shown that women with endometriosis significantly improved the intensity of their menstrual cramps through message. Most women do not have endometriosis BUT can greatly benefit from pelvic messages to relieve muscle spasms and stress.
additionally, Pelvic stretching can help relieve your abdominal muscles to reduce cramping. Pelvic stretches include:
- Childs pose
- prayer pose
- happy baby
- flat frog pose
focus on stretches that open up the hips!
In conclusion
there you have it folks! my top 5 tips for your period that have been tested and approved by yours truly:) let me know what you think and what tips you have for me in the comments bellow!
until next time
-Hailee
xx
