Being a woman is tough. Besides the stereotypes attached by society to just being a woman, there are also the dreaded moon days every month where the not-so-lucky 90% of ladies across the globe experience Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). PMS is a condition that affects a woman’s physical health, behavior, and even her emotions, usually before and at the onset of her menstrual cycle. PMS is characterized by mood swings, menstrual cramps, nausea, and irritability. While PMS can be very uncomfortable, women should be informed about the different ways to take care of themselves during these times to help ease the pain brought about by PMS. Let’s look at these self-care tips on how women can make PMS go away.
Six Tips to Ease the Pain of PMS:
- Eat More Protein and Fat
While PMS is when ladies would often crave sugary pastries and donuts, these carb overload cravings do more harm than good. These sugary carbs would cause one’s energy to spike up and then crash down quickly, worsening the moods and causing even more extreme mood swings. Because carbs are filling, it can also cause bloating, which adds to a woman’s discomfort and irritability. It is best to indulge in protein and healthy fats such as avocados, green vegetables, chicken, or even yogurt! These types of food are rich in Omega-3 and can help relieve muscle tension and inflammation.
- Have an Orgasm
Having sex during PMS can greatly help in reducing its ill effects. While being with a partner can help focus on something much more enjoyable than cramps, there’s a science to back up this claim. Having an orgasm releases oxytocin, a hormone responsible for pleasure and comfort. If you’re single – worry not! There’s always the trusty vibrator, or you can take matters into your own hands. Literally.
- Exercise!
Experts say that even thirty (30) minutes of intense exercise can increase well-being and overall mood. So, even if the gym is the last place anyone who has menstrual cramps wants to be in, it is a great avenue to focus on something other than the pain and boost one’s moods afterward.
- Go on an Almond Binge
Let go of the Pringles and food-binge on almonds instead. These nuts are filled with magnesium, which is great for reducing cramping and easing the tension in one’s midsection. Not in the mood for almonds? Go for magnesium-rich foods such as spinach and kale to help relieve the tension.
- Have a Relaxing Hot Bath
A hot bath is relaxing after a long, exhausting day. This is why heat is every lady’s best friend, especially during her moon days. To make the hot bath even more effective, it is best to sprinkle Epsom Salt to help relax the sore muscles and relieve tension.
- Track Your Menstrual Cycle
Especially if you have regular hormonal cycles, it is best to know when your period comes so that you are better prepared! With the help of technology, many useful apps can help track your period and even give you a countdown or reminders when your period should be due. Menstrual apps such as Flo and Clue can help any woman be more conscientious about ‘that time of the month.’ In addition, these menstrual apps can also help track daily symptoms associated with PMS, such as weight gain/loss, eating habits, mood changes, and activity changes.