For many women, periods are an unavoidable part of life. They can be uncomfortable, inconvenient, and even painful. However, with the right strategies, you can manage your period symptoms and get through your menstrual cycle easier. 

What are the most common period symptoms?

• Cramps: Menstrual cramps are caused by the contractions of the uterus as it sheds its lining. These can range from mild to severe, and may be accompanied by lower back pain.
• Mood Changes: Many women experience mood changes during their period. These may include irritability, anxiety, and depression.
• Fatigue: Some women may feel more tired than usual during their period, which can affect their ability to concentrate and perform daily tasks.
• Headaches: Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can cause headaches, which can range from mild to severe.
• Bloating: Many women experience bloating during their period, which is caused by water retention.
• Acne: Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can cause acne outbreaks.
• Breast Tenderness: Some women experience breast tenderness during their period, which can range from mild to severe.

Here are some tips for dealing with periods:

Use menstrual products that work for you
There are many menstrual products on the market, including pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period panties. Each product has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to find the one that works best for you. For example, if you're looking for a more eco-friendly option, menstrual cups may be the way to go. If you're concerned about leaks, period panties may be a good choice. Whatever your preferences, make sure you have plenty of products on hand before your period starts.

Take pain relief medication
Cramps are a common symptom of periods, and they can be quite painful. Over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen, can help ease your discomfort. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully and check with your doctor if you have any health conditions that may be affected by pain relief medication.

Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water during your period can help reduce bloating and cramping. It's also important to avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you and make your symptoms worse.

Eat a balanced diet
Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help regulate your hormones and reduce period symptoms. Try to incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein into your meals. Avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and fried foods, which can exacerbate cramps and bloating.

Get plenty of rest
Fatigue is a common symptom of periods, and getting enough rest is important for managing your symptoms. Make sure you're getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night, and take breaks when you need to during the day.

Stay active
Exercise can help alleviate cramps and improve your mood during your period. Gentle exercises, such as yoga or walking, can be particularly helpful. However, it's important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard.

Manage your stress
Stress can make period symptoms worse, so it's important to manage your stress levels during this time. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can be helpful. You may also want to consider talking to a therapist or counsellor if you're experiencing significant stress or anxiety.

Periods can be a challenging time for many women, but hopefully, these tips can help you manage your symptoms a little better. Additionally, if you ever want to delay your period because it’s due at an inconvenient time, you can check out our period delay treatment here.