A feeling of discomfort often goes hand in hand with the period. From bloating to cramps to emotional outbursts to PMS, every woman experiences these to some degree during their periods.
This can often be challenging and hinder your daily activities. We understand this and that is why we created some period hacks to help you feel better during that time of the month. Check out these tips:
1. Reducing Period Pain
If you experience mild period cramps and pain, check out these period hacks:
- Use a heating pad on your lower abdomen and lower back
- Take an Epsom salt bath with lavender and clary sage essential oils
- Massage your abdomen with clary sage essential oil mixed with Jojoba oil.
- Do light stretches and exercises to relieve muscle cramps.
2. Alleviate Bloating
Period bloating is a common symptom before or during the period adding to the discomfort. Here are some ways to relieve the bloating symptoms:
- Drink enough water
- Eat more fruits and vegetables. Make sure you are getting enough fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Avoid drinking coffee. Drink herbal tea instead like chamomile tea, ginger tea, and peppermint tea.
- Get enough sleep
3. Overcoming Odour
Vaginal odour is a normal thing before and after periods. However, if you smell a strong fishy or yeasty odor and you have itching, burning, or cheese-like discharge – you could have a yeast infection. In that case, you can check with your doctor and take over-the-counter medications for yeast infections. Say goodbye to period odour with Sofy Antibacteria Overnight sanitary napkin that prevents leakage and gives you 99.9% protection from bacteria that causes the smell.
4. Stay Healthy
Often time-intense period pain or cramps can be due to an underlying health issue or nutritional deficiencies. Eat a healthy whole foods diet consisting of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, berries, grass-fed meat, eggs, fish, and whole grains. If you are deficient in iron or vitamins, you can take a supplement for the same. Keep the inflammation response of your body low by consuming enough Omega-3 fatty acids. Eliminate refined sugar, refined grains, refined hydrogenated oils, from your diet.
Incorporate these period hacks to help you reduce PMS, pain, cramps, and discomfort associated with the period.
FAQ’s
2. How can I alleviate bloating during menstruation?
To manage bloating before or during your period, drink plenty of water to flush excess salts. Eat fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to aid digestion. Avoid caffeine; instead try herbal teas such as chamomile, ginger, or peppermint for soothing effects. Also ensure enough rest — good sleep helps regulate fluid balance and reduce bloating symptoms.
3. What tips can help with vaginal odour during my period?
Vaginal odour is common, but if it becomes strong or is accompanied by itching, burning, or unusual discharge, it may indicate an infection. For regular odour control, using an antibacterial sanitary pad—like Sofy Antibacteria Overnight—helps since it protects against bacteria that can cause smells. Proper hygiene (changing pads often, washing gently) is also key.
4. What dietary changes reduce period discomfort?
Eating a balanced whole-foods diet helps reduce period pain and PMS symptoms. Include fresh produce, nuts, seeds, eggs, fish, lean meats, and whole grains. If you're low on iron or vitamins, supplements may help. Reduce intake of refined sugar, hydrogenated fats, and refined grains to keep inflammation down. Drinking herbal teas may also soothe symptoms.
5. How important is hydration during my period?
Very important. Drinking enough water helps combat bloating, supports digestion, and helps your body flush out excess salts. Proper hydration also supports reduced fatigue and keeps your skin healthy. Drinking herbal teas instead of caffeinated drinks can give you similar fluid intake without dehydrating effects. Sleep and hydration together boost overall comfort during periods.
6. Can essential oils be used safely to ease menstrual symptoms?
Yes, when used properly. Sofy recommends using essential oils such as lavender or clary sage in an Epsom salt bath or massaging the abdomen mixed with a carrier oil like jojoba to ease cramps. These oils have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. However, always patch-test first and avoid irritated or broken skin; consult a healthcare provider if in doubt.
7. Why is sleep hygiene important during my period?
Sleep issues often worsen discomfort, mood swings, and PMS symptoms. Ensuring you get enough rest helps regulate your body’s fluid balance, hormone levels, and reduces sensitivity to pain. Prioritize quality sleep by maintaining a regular sleep-wake schedule and using relaxation techniques. Proper rest supports overall healing and restores your energy levels.
8. Are there non-dietary ways to reduce PMS symptoms with lifestyle choices?
Yes, besides diet, lifestyle habits like light exercise, gentle stretching, and regular movement help relieve cramps and improve mood. Keeping stress low through relaxation (like baths, meditation) helps too. Good hygiene and changing pads regularly prevent discomfort. Also, avoiding things that aggravate inflammation—like processed foods or high sugar—can reduce PMS severity.
9. When should I seek medical advice for period problems?
If menstrual pain, cramps, or bleeding are unusually heavy or don’t improve with home remedies, it could signal an underlying issue. Similarly, strong odour plus itching or discharge may indicate infection. If you experience persistent fatigue, anaemia, or symptoms interfering with daily life, talking to a healthcare provider is recommended.
10. How can I improve my overall menstrual wellness?
You can support overall menstrual health by incorporating multiple hacks: maintain a nutritious diet with whole foods and sufficient micronutrients, stay hydrated, practice regular (not intense) physical activity, use heat for pain relief, get enough rest, maintain hygiene, and manage stress. All these combined can help minimize discomfort, improve mood, and boost confidence during your period.