As if having periods every month wasn’t enough, we’ve got multiple problems that come along with them for a week full of mind-numbing annoyance. But don’t worry, though we know it’s something you just have to live with, here are 10 of your worst period problems and how to solve them!
1. Menstrual cramps
Well, since your uterine muscles are contracting to dislodge your uterine lining. These contractions are the reason you get cramps. Using a heating pad to dilate your blood vessels is a good way to start your day. You can even do aerobic exercises to increase your heart and blood flow. And as a last resort, move to anti-inflammatory painkillers.
2. Sudden bloating
Water retention is a part and parcel of periods and we are all too familiar with the unpleasant feeling that is known as bloating. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to get some relief and definitely avoid excess salt and alcohol.
3. Period headache
Menstrual migraine is a legit thing. It is preferable you visit a doctor before consuming medication for this kind of headache. Since you are already taking painkillers for your cramps, they can adversely affect your body. Of course, you can try reducing your caffeine intake during periods and focus on more healthy food choices.
4. Mood swings
Fluctuating hormones are bound to give you extreme mood swings. So if you want to beat someone up one minute and then want to cry the next minute, relax, we all do! What you need right now is to keep your blood sugar stable which you can easily achieve by loading up on your carbs with foods like leafy vegetables and whole-grain items.
5. Feeling of fatigue
Feeling sleepy all the time? Or simply washed out? No, you’re not being lazy. It’s probably because of your periods. You can fix this by getting enough sleep, for starters. Make sure you sleep for 7-8 hours every day. Try to squeeze in some light cardio in your daily routine even though it might seem like a drag, this gives you some much-needed energy boost!
6. Tender boobs
Boobs get super sensitive right before and during periods. This is also because of the rising level of progesterone. Although, there is not much you can do about this, wearing supportive bras is helpful to a lot of women. If you want to exercise, make sure you do low impact exercises like cycling and walking.
7. Increased acne
It is because of high progesterone level right before your periods that oil gland production increases, resulting in more acne prone skin. You can handle this by avoiding all kinds of harsh scrubs or toners, use light cleansers while washing your face. Although, you want to remove the excess oil, you don’t want to end up with a completely dry skin.
8. Itching down there
The vagina is drier than usual because of decreasing oestrogen level. The situation gets worse because of the pads that you have to wear all through the day and can cause itching. The simple way to deal with this is to keep your vagina clean. Regularly wash it with water or use home remedies like organic coconut oil.
9. Lower backache
This is another common problem during periods. You feel a weird backache all through your first few days. Generally, using a heating pad can really help. All you need is some warmth to relax your muscles. If the pain persists, then you should take medications after you’ve visited a doctor.
10. Nauseous feeling
Nausea is also a fairly common period problem. The more long-term way of dealing with nausea is to eat wholesome meals in small amounts to avoid discomfort. Try drinking chamomile tea or chewing on peppermint to avoid the sickening sensation in your stomach. Worst case scenario, you can resort to antacids based on prescription.
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