10 Essential Period Tips: What to Avoid for a Healthier Cycle

What Not to Do During Your Period: The Ultimate Guide by Flawsome

Indeed, one has to admit that periods can be a real pain, both literally and figuratively. While it's something we really can't do without, there are some things that we can stay away from to make the experience a tad less, um, crampy. Here is your ultimate guide on what not to do during your period. Trust us, your uterus will thank you.

 

Salt Cravings: Not Your Friend

Oh, those salt cravings! It's so hard not to reach for a bag of chips, but salty foods can seriously intensify your period cramps and cause you to bloat. Think of it as piling something highly flammable on a bonfire. Instead, aim for snacks that won't make you feel all balloon-animal-like.

 

Coffee: A Brew-tiful Nightmare

We get it. Coffee is life. But while on your period, your usual cup of joe can be interchanged with something that is a bit less caffeinated. High levels of caffeine intake can make cramps worse and breasts more tender. Maybe go with a very relaxing herbal tea instead. Your body will thank you in other ways.

 

Forget the Douche

Ladies; let's clear one thing up; your vagina is a self-cleaning machine. Vaginal infections and sexually transmitted infections can only be increased by douching, as it disrupts the natural flora. Keep the douching for people in the romantic comedies and make our vaginas happy and healthy.

 

Same Pad, All Day?

It's oh-so-tempting to toss on that pad or tampon in the a.m. and forget about it until bedtime, but that is a major no-no. Bacteria growth in the same sanitary product all day might lead to foul odors and even be a home for Toxic Shock Syndrome. Change it every 4–6 hours to keep things fresh and safe.

 

Getting Waxed or Shaved: A Hairy Situation

Periods and hair removal are not in the same sentence. The skin, which is already extra-sensitive during the period, can seriously make waxing the equivalent of medieval torture. On the other hand, shaving can turn into a bloody mess. You might want to put off that grooming appointment until you don't have to worry about further discomfort from potential infections.

 

Unprotected Sex: Risky Business

Yes, you can have sex while you're on your period—but always use protection. A time of the month should never be an excuse not to use a condom. The risk of getting an STD during this phase increases, and yes, pregnancy is still on the table. So keep it safe, use a condom, and remember: no glove, no love.

 

Smoking: A Puff of Trouble

As if you needed another reason to quit smoking—here's one: it can make your period cramps worse. That one extra cigarette is not only bad for you in the present, but it will be nice enough to help that period become more painful than what is expected. So, this time, maybe you can do some good by quitting.

 

Neglecting Protection for the Night

Sleeping without a pad or tampon might sound like a good idea at the time, but it's not. At night, when leaks are prone to happen, it can result in stains and a huge mess to clean in the morning. If you are worried about rashes, you might want to consider using a menstrual cup or switch brands. But don't forget to protect yourself still.

 

Bad Timing for Breast Exams

Even though breast exams are essential, performing them while on your period is not very good. Hormonal changes can render breasts tender and lumpy, making it challenging to tell the difference between the real problems. Schedule your exam for after your period when things have calmed down a bit.

 

Skipping Meals and Eating Junk

Skipping meals can leave you feeling like a zombie, and eating junk isn't much better. Your body needs proper nutrition to handle the extra stress of menstruation. Don't go for that candy bar; have a balanced meal to boost your energy and mood.

So there you have it—Flawsome's top things not to do during your period. Avoid these basic pitfalls, and your period will be more bearable. Stay strong, stay healthy, and remember, this, too, shall pass.