A modern approach to managing your period
Article04. 06. 2020 Gynecology
Regular monthly bleeding is a normal occurrence for the majority of girls and women of reproductive age. The reproductive cycle generally lasts anywhere between 25-35 days, while the actual period lasts for less than a week on average. This recurrent cycle starts with puberty and ends with menopause. The premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is not something many women welcome with open arms, as it is a sign of an approaching period, and usually comes with unpleasant side effects such as mood swings, irritability, depression, crying, bloating, cramping or breast tenderness. The only relief from these symptoms is the onset of the period. How to deal with your monthly bleeding comfortably, safely and ecologically? Below are a couple of tips and tricks.
From the classic pad to the period panties
Inserts and pads have been around since our grandmother’s times and are a widely available option. Their use is easy, however, they often come with a certain level of discomfort- not to mention the odour and dampness associated prolonged pad use. For this reason, a pad should be changed approximately every 3 hours. Do you suffer from common yeast or bacterial infections? Try to stay away from scented pads and chlorine which is often used to whiten sanitary products. You can have a go at using bio cotton, fabric pads, or period panties which are very popular across the Atlantic and in Asia. This revolutionary underwear offers a breathable and thin layer of fabric made of nanofibers that absorb and retains any fluids.
Menstrual cup: low cost and eco-friendly.
For some women, the menstrual cup may be an untested novelty, but for many, it has been a long-time aid. One of its many advantages is that you can menstruate without restriction, even during sports and swimming. When inserted correctly, you cannot feel the cup at all. The time it takes for the cup to fill up depends on the strength of the bleeding, but once full, the cup can be easily removed, washed and reused. The type of cup you chose depends on several factors- whether you have had a baby, whether or not you have an IUD, the intensity of menstrual bleeding or the condition of the pelvic floor muscles. The one-off cost of several hundred crowns will last you up to 6 to 9 years. Both your nature and your wallet will thank you.
Tips on how to effortlessly deal with your monthly cycle
- Increase your hygiene routine- shower in the morning and evening. Try to minimise any swimming or bathing.
- Use intimate soaps that contain lactic acid- they support the naturally acidic environment
- Chose underwear made of natural fibres. 100% cotton or bamboo are tried and tested options
- Do you struggle with painful and heavy breasts? Rely on the trustworthy sports bra that will keep them well supported.
- Vitamin E can help reduce breast tenderness during menstruation. Similar effects can be achieved with the use of herbs such as red clover or evening primrose.
- Reduce consumption of salty foods, coffee or caffeinated drinks
- Stomach cramps can be lessened with by having adequate magnesium intake. Magnesium is found in fish, spinach, bananas and dates. You can have a carrot or grapefruit juice!
- Any form of movement helps. Go for a walk, or try yoga or pilates.
- Keep track of your cycle in a calendar or on a mobile app.