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Want your periods to be comfortable? Here are some tips to keep in mind

Periods don’t always have to be troublesome. They can be comfortable too! Here’s all you need to know.
bathing on period blood
You may experience cramps before your period. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Dr Poonam Yadav Updated: 18 Oct 2021, 18:05 pm IST
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Although periods happen every month, they can be uncomfortable, since they bring with them issues like constipation, mood swings, and cramps, as well as other health concerns. But how can they be tackled well? Fret not, we have all the answers for you!

Reducing period pain

Menstrual cramps are normal and may begin just a few days before your period. They are caused by muscular contractions in the uterus, because of an increase in a hormone known as prostaglandin. While some women experience only mild symptoms, some may be afflicted with severe symptoms such as nausea and headaches, loose stool, and dizziness. 

how can you have a comfortable period?
You need medical care when the pain is extreme. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

If you are experiencing severe symptoms, you should be sure to speak with your doctor to rule out anything serious. In case your symptoms are not severe, then there are a few home remedies that can ease cramps during your menstrual cycle:

  • Utilize a heating pad on your abdomen, lower back, or the bottom of your legs
  • Enjoy a relaxing bath
  • Put hot water bottles on the lower abdomen or the lower back
  • Massage your abdomen
  • Discuss with your physician the possibility of using an over-the-counter pain reliever or anti-inflammatory medication
  • Try a gentle exercise like walking, yoga, or swimming to improve blood flow. 
Alleviate bloating

The bloating that comes with menstruation is a common complaint! You can suffer from it prior to or during the course of your menstrual cycle, and it can make you feel that you have gained weight or are suffering from an enlarged and tight abdomen. Although there isn’t a cure for this, there are ways to reduce bloating: 

1. Drink plenty of water: It may appear odd to drink more fluids when you’re feeling overstuffed, puffy, and full. However, the more water you consume the more beneficial it is. The most common recommendation is to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water throughout the day.

2. Eat healthy foods: If you are searching for the best foods you can eat during your period, you should consider eating healthier snacks like vegetables and fruits, or other foods with low sodium that don’t cause you to balloon. Beware of processed foods and excessive salt. Your stomach will be grateful when it’s time to eat.

Processed foods can have large amounts of salt and result in increased bloating. The other safe options to eat healthy are protein like chicken

and fish, as well as healthy fats like avocados and nuts. If you are looking to indulge in something sweet, think about dark chocolate. It is an excellent source of magnesium that helps regulate serotonin and improves your mood.

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how can you have a comfortable period?
Eat adequate quantities of fruits and veggies. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

3. Beware of caffeine: Caffeine can also upset your stomach and leave you with cramps or a feeling of bloatedness. It is recommended to avoid drinking caffeine-based beverages during your period. Apart from caffeine, it is best to avoid carbonated and sweet drinks, which may cause the likelihood of bloating.

An excellent drink with no caffeine is tea made from herbs. Get a cup of hot tea (i.e. green tea, ginger peppermint, chamomile, or a chamomile leaf) to ease swelling and to feel more comfortable on your period.

4. Engage in some physical activity: A moderate amount of exercising during your period could aid in increasing blood flow and reduce related issues like constipation.

5. Get plenty of rest: The effects of fatigue during your period are real and can be enhanced due to pain during this time. Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep per night, particularly during this time.

how can you have a comfortable period?
Make sure you get proper sleep, especially during your periods. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Overcoming odour

Vaginas are your body’s self-cleansing system and can maintain an even, delicate

equilibrium throughout the period as well as ovulation. The balance is maintained with the help of lactobacilli, a small bacterium. A light odour may be normal since they contain these beneficial bacteria. 

Make sure that the area is clean. If you are suffering from burning, itching, or a white, cottage cheese-like discharge, it could be an infection caused by yeast. The yeast infection can affect any person and it’s fairly easy to manage them. It’s easy to get an antifungal suppository that is available over-the-counter or talk to your doctor.

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About the Author

Dr Poonam Yadav, Associate Director, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Jaypee Hospital ...Read More

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