Ad | Gifted When I first started menstruating, the flow was light-moderate and the cramps/pain not that bad. But once I hit the mid-3...
Ad | Gifted
When I first started menstruating, the flow was light-moderate and the cramps/pain not that bad. But once I hit the mid-30s, my periods changed. The flow of periods and the period pain both increased. The pain and discomfort lasted for the entire 5 days and sometimes it prevented me from doing the normal daily activities. I also inevitably got migraine with every period. Now in my 40s, I have learnt to better manage the symptoms so that they do not interfere with my normal day-to-day functioning. I keep a diary of my periods, ensure that I eat a wholesome diet, exercise moderately, take supplements and at times OTC pain relievers. It is a combination of things but I now know what works best for me.
If you are looking for ways to better manage your periods, take a look at the list below for suggestions of some useful products.
Modibodi's Period-proof Underwear
Modibodi is an Australian underwear brand who are known for their period-proof underwear.
Modibodi uses high quality, tech-savvy fabrics (like Bamboo, Merino Perform Wool and Microfibre) and the latest in breathable, antimicrobial fibres with their patented Modifier Technology – a super slim (only 3mm) stain resistant lining for modern periods and leaks, and Modifier Air Technology – a moisture-wicking, odour-fighting lining for getting sweaty.
What I like about these period underwear is how soft and comfortable they are and how nicely they fit. And they work - the blood is absorbed quickly and the underwear doesn't feel sodden! They can be used on their own or as a backup for overnight pads when the flow is very heavy. I love the freedom and flexibility the period-proof underwear offers. These are great when I am travelling and are also perfect for sleeping in. I also think the period underwear has helped improve my sleep during my periods as I don't worry about leakages any more and can sleep in any position I want.
Modibodi have a wide range of collections to choose from - Seam free, Classic, Sensual, Vegan, Maternity, Curvy - and products with different absorbency - super light, light-moderate and heavy-overnight. You can head to their website www.modibodi.co.uk and browse through their selection to find one that fits your needs.
Sanature 100% cotton sanitary pads and tampons
One of the reasons for irritation/itch down there during your periods could be the materials used to make the sanitary products that you use. My skin is sensitive and has reacted to sanitary products of certain brands. It caused discomfort and itching and while not serious it does make things a bit more complicated.
One way to minimise this irritation is to use sanitary products that are made with 100% cotton like the range from Sanature. Sanature's 100% cotton and natural products prevent intimate skin irritation.
Their sanitary pads and tampons are made from 100% cotton and the benefits are many:
- Cotton easily absorbs up to 5 times its weight in moisture.
- Cotton is natural and hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and making them good for sensitive skin.
- Cotton is extremely breathable by nature and offers soft and smooth comfort.
You can read more about Sanature at www.sanature.com and can purchase them online from Ocado.
WUKA Natural Rubber Long Hot Water Bottle with Fleece Cover
One of my trusted helpers during my periods is my hot water bottle. I love how the heat helps me relax and also alleviates the cramps to some extent. I have been using a standard size hot water bottle for years now and love the heat therapy. But I always wished that the hot water bottle was sized bigger. As if in answer to my demands, I came across WUKA's long hot water bottle.
Made of natural rubber and manufactured to high quality standards, the hot water bottle is brilliant and such a clever idea. The long flexible bottle with a soft fleece cover can be tied snugly around the tummy and eases pain both in the lower back and in the tummy. The design of the bottle does away with the limitations of a standard hot water bottle and I can just wrap it around my tummy and get on with my work instead of holding the bottle in place. I love it.
WUKA's Long Hot Water Bottle with Fleece Cover is priced at £24.99 and can be ordered online from their website. WUKA also make period proof pants for heavy, medium and light flows. You can check out the range at www.wuka.co.uk
Your Period Handbook by Natasha Richardson
If you suffer from enervative pain, irregular periods, heavy bleeding or the effects of premenstrual-syndrome each month, then 'Your Period Handbook' by Natasha Richardson is a book you must read. Natasha, who is a medical herbalist, talks about everything from how periods work to how to chart your cycle and from how stress affects periods to how to choose the right herbs for your menstrual problems. The book is an interesting and informative read and I particularly liked the 'recipes' section where she shares recipes for infusions, tinctures and decoctions that help with various menstrual problems. There is also a section featuring relevant herbs and their uses.
If you are looking for natural/herbal ways to manage your hormonal wellbeing, give this book a read. You can order the book here - www.foragebotanicals.co.uk
Clue - The Period Tracker App
Clue was founded in 2012 by Danish entrepreneur, Ida Tin. The app helps users track their period and ovulation and helps them to understand how their body works. According to the makers, the app is able to provide personalised predictions based on each user’s data that has been input.
You can set up custom notifications to remind you when your period is due or learn more about why your cycle is irregular. There is a free version (Clue) and a paid version (Clue Plus) with the latter having a few extra features. You can read more about Clue at www.helloclue.com
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