Hey lovely ladies,
Let's talk periods – because, let's face it, they're a part of life and embracing the natural flow is key to feeling empowered and in control. We've all been there, those days when cramps hit like a freight train, and you're convinced that chocolate and a cozy blanket are the only solution. Fear not, my fellow goddesses, because I've curated the ultimate Period Survival Kit that will have you conquering your menstrual woes with grace and style.
1. Heating Pads: Warm Hugs for Your Tummy
First up, let's banish those cramps with the magic of heating pads. A warm, comforting embrace for your abdomen can work wonders in easing the pain. Consider investing in a reusable and portable heating pad for on-the-go relief.
2. Organic Cotton Pads: Pamper Your Lady Parts
Give your body the TLC it deserves with organic cotton pads. Brands like L. Organic Cotton and The Honey Pot offer sustainable and chemical-free options that keep you feeling fresh and comfortable. It's a small change that makes a big difference!
3. Period Panties: Because Comfort Matters
Period panties work by absorbing menstrual blood instead of allowing it to leak onto your clothes or bedding. The absorbent layers lock in the fluid until you are ready to change the panties. This makes them great for:
Heavy flow days - Period panties provide extra backup on days when you need to change pads or tampons frequently. Wearing them at night gives you peace of mind if you experience heavy overnight flow.
Light flow days - For some women, period panties alone are enough to handle a light flow. They can be worn instead of a pad or liner.
Sleeping - At night, period panties help protect against leaks, so you can sleep easy.
Exercising or swimming - The absorbent technology keeps blood contained even during movement and water activities.
Backups - Have period panties on hand as an extra layer of protection on heavy days or alongside cups, pads and tampons.
4. Pain Medication: Your Trusted Ally
Sometimes, we need a little extra help to tackle those stubborn cramps. Keep your preferred pain medication handy, whether it's ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to take the edge off and keep you going.
5. High Maintenance Calm Cycle Tea: Sip Your Cares Away
Introducing your new best friend – High Maintenance Calm Cycle tea. Packed with soothing herbs like chamomile and lemon balm, this tea is specifically designed to ease menstrual discomfort and promote relaxation. Brew a cup, snuggle up, and let the calmness wash over you.
6. High Maintenance Pain Cream: Topical Relief
Topical pain creams can provide relief from menstrual cramps and muscle tension caused by periods. Since they are applied directly to the skin, pain creams deliver active ingredients right to the source of discomfort.
Look for over-the-counter creams containing ingredients like menthol, camphor, and capsicum. These create a warming or cooling sensation that distracts from the cramping. I recommend trying High Maintenance's pain cream. It uses a blend of menthol, magnesium chloride, arnica, to relax muscles and block pain receptors. The cream goes on smoothly and works within minutes to alleviate aches, with no greasy residue. Just massage it directly onto your lower abdomen and back as needed. The relief can last for hours. Compared to popping pills, creams provide a more natural and targeted way to ease cramps during your period.
7. Supplements for Menstrual Relief
Supplements like black cohosh and magnesium are your secret weapons against menstrual woes. Black cohosh is an herbal supplement derived from the root of the black cohosh plant. It has been used for centuries by Native Americans to treat menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms.
Black cohosh helps relax uterine muscle spasms and decreases inflammation, providing cramp relief.
Studies show it is effective at reducing PMS symptoms like mood swings, irritability, headaches, and breast tenderness.
The recommended dosage is 40-80 mg of black cohosh extract twice per day.
Black cohosh should not be taken by those with liver disorders or on birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or medications that are metabolized by the liver.
Magnesium is a mineral that plays a key role in muscle relaxation. Supplementing with magnesium can help alleviate cramps, soreness, and other PMS symptoms.
Magnesium binds to calcium channels to prevent muscle spasms and contractions. This helps relax the uterine muscle.
It also regulates neurotransmitters that influence mood, like dopamine and serotonin.
Take 300-500 mg of magnesium glycinate or citrate daily. Spread doses throughout the day for optimal absorption and be sure to take with food.
Those with kidney disorders should consult a doctor before supplementing with magnesium.
Adding magnesium and black cohosh supplements to your period survival kit can provide natural relief from cramps, soreness, and PMS without the side effects of pain medication. Always consult your physician before starting any new supplement.
Additional Helpful Tips:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help alleviate bloating and keep your body in balance.
- Move Your Body: Light exercise can help relieve cramps and other period discomforts. Going for a walk, doing some yoga, or even just stretching can get your blood flowing and provide relief.
- Aromatherapy: Essential oils like lavender and peppermint can be used in a diffuser or added to a warm bath for relaxation.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Incorporate mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing or meditation, to center yourself during your period.
Stock your survival kit with a combination of these remedies to find what works best for your needs. Most importantly, be kind to yourself and give your body the rest it needs during this time of the month. With the proper preparation, you can feel comfortable, balanced, and empowered throughout your cycle.