Aug 20, 20204 min read

Ah periods- the j o y s.

Updated: Jun 26, 2022

Ladies we all get them, they can’t be avoided, and they have some pretty sucky side effects. So let’s break it down- what’s actually going on in there when we’re sore, moody, bloated and 100% ready to demolish every version of Cadbury we can find?

I mean, it feels like the muscle contractions or ‘cramps’ themselves are the actual cause of the pain, right? Well… kinda.

Menstrual cramps are triggered by prostaglandins (hormone-like substances) that influence the perception of pain and cause the muscles in the womb to tighten, helping to shed the lining. In most cases, the more prostaglandins in your body = the worse you feel during your period. On average, period pain can affect around 20% of women in their daily life, and around 1 in 10 ladies experience such severe pain they have to limit their usual day-to-day activities for between 1-3 days per month. That’s at least a whole day wasted just because your uterine lining decided to shed. RUDE!

Not to worry babe, the good news IS coming!

There are many natural and effective ways to combat the not-so-fun time of the month. However, let’s get one thing straight before we jump into them… there is absolutely NOTHING wrong with popping a Panadol or Nurofen if that’s what gets you through, girl! Just keep in mind, it’s not your only option. There are many others that in all honesty, may or may not work for you, but it’s worth at least giving them a try, right?

Give me all the foods.

We all know what we WANT to eat during period time (pizza, chocolate, ice cream, repeat!) but unfortunately this kind of diet doesn’t do you any favours when it comes to alleviating period pain. Processed and fried foods are high in omega-6 fatty acids, and a diet high in these omega-6s creates stronger prostaglandins. The best way to go is to try and incorporate anti-inflammatory omega-3 rich foods including flaxseeds, salmon and walnuts as they work to reduce your prostaglandins, and therefore pain. Peppermint tea is another big tick when it comes to decreasing inflammation, reducing bloating and relieving stomach pain, plus it’s a tasty way of keeping you hydrated (MEGA important when it comes to period time, get those drink bottles out!). It also helps to keep waste moving through your intestines & keep you regular bowel wise- because the last thing you need when you’re already in pain is to feel clogged up and even more uncomfortable.

Turn up the heat.

Whether it’s your fave hot water bottle, heating pad, or drawing up a nice warm bath, heat encourages your muscles and your mind to max lax’. Laying down and taking a few deep breaths while something warm sits comfortably on your aching stomach (or relaxing in the tub) can help to reduce pain, de-stress and unwind.

***Work it*, girl.**

“Ooooh my period just struck, time for a run!” HAH- good one. Typically, exercising is the absolute last thing you wanna do when you get your period #nothankshun. However unlike you’d think, getting that bod moving can actually be really beneficial in relieving period pain! Not only does it release mood boosting endorphins (‘feel good’ chemicals released into the body to alleviate stress & pain) a good workout can also help to reduce the level of prostaglandins (Gee they come up a lot to make life hard, don’t they? Like seriously, take a hike!). In saying that, you don’t have nor will you be up for a super intense, butt kicking bootcamp or crazy gym sesh. Opt for something along the lines of a light lifting workout, Yoga, Pilates, leisurely bike ride or a just simple walk. Try any of the above for at least 30 minutes a day (you can do it; I know you can!) and your body WILL thank you for it.

Magnesium goodness.

Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral found in the human body that plays a vital role in over 300 chemical reactions and is well known for relieving muscle and joint tension, tightness and stiffness. It can also be effective in lowering prostaglandins and reducing menstrual pain. While it can be taken as a vitamin supplement, Magnesium has been proven to be absorbed better and faster by the body when applied topically. Check out our very own Magnesium recovery spray.

Ovarease

As the name suggests, Ovarease was made for the hard days, the achy days, the lady days. It is a #flowerpower scented oil blend that aims to reduce pain & cramping, and can be applied as needed simply by rubbing into the skin directly over painful areas when and where you need it. It combines an array of beautiful essential oils prized in Women’s health including Clary sage, Lavender, Geranium, Chamomile, Jasmine and Peppermint- remember our old minty friend mentioned earlier? #guesswhosback Feel free to read all about it including some incredible reviews right here.

The takeaway

Period time looks and feels different for all of us, and we’ve all got better things to do than be crouched over in pain for 3 days- aint nobody got time for that. While it’s not going anywhere any time soon, there are everyday actions and choices we can make to help ‘Aunt flow’ get a move on. Some light exercise, a good diet and a bit of uterus TLC including heat, Magnesium or Ovarease are all natural & feel good options that might be exactly what you’ve been missin’ girlfriend.