The Red Talk: Everything You Must Know About Menstruation and Your Body
“Ugh! I’m on my period again.”
All menstruators have said this at least once in their life.
By now, most of us know that menstruation is the monthly subscription we definitely did not sign up for (but are begrudgingly grateful for). The blood, the mood swings, the cravings, and about a zillion other period symptoms can become quite overwhelming at times.
Sometimes, we are so overwhelmed by our periods, that we forget to ask important questions about them.
What is the biological reason for this?
Which organs of my body does this cycle affect?
What is the best way to deal with it?
Who should I visit if I observe abnormal symptoms?
What products should I use?
Well, we’re here to give you the Red Talk. Let’s begin!
What is Menstruation?
Menstruation, as defined by UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund), means the process in which the uterus sheds blood and tissue through the vagina. Every month, one of the ovaries (primary reproductive organs) releases an egg. Meanwhile, the uterus prepares for the implantation of a fertilized egg by thickening its inner wall. If the egg gets fertilized, it results in pregnancy. However, if the egg isn’t fertilized, the uterus sheds this lining that comes out of the vagina in the form of blood.
The Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle (the first day of your period to the first day of your next period) usually lasts for about 28-30 days. Ovulation (release of an egg from the ovary) occurs approximately around day 14. Menstruation lasts for about 3-5 days.
The Menstrual kit
Regular periods are as pleasant as an early Christmas gift (especially if it’s SOQO period underwear, haha) but it’s always best to be prepared. Specifically for those menstruators who suffer from the whims of unpredictable Aunt Flo. There’s a wide range of menstrual products to choose from—period underwear, menstrual cups, tampons, sanitary napkins et cetera.
Please refer to our blog on Menstrual Kit that talks about all the essentials for stress-free periods.
Apart from this, your kit must have these supplies to ensure a smooth period:
- Sanitary wipes
- Hydrogen peroxide or other period stain removers (for unwanted stains)
Note: Period stains are nothing to be embarrassed about.
- A stack of chocolates
- Pain-relief wearables (a hot water bag works too)
- Painkillers like ibuprofen or aspirin to alleviate cramps and headaches.
The Red Flags
PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) is a bunch of annoying physical, emotional and behavioral indicators that your period is due. The most common ones are bloating, acne, mood swings, tender breasts, irritability et cetera.
These symptoms appear about a week or two prior to your period. While on your period, these symptoms can develop into cramps, anxiety, over sensitivity, fatigue, joint pain et cetera. As irksome as they are, these can be moderated through simple lifestyle changes.
Why does this happen?
The exact reasons behind these remain unknown, however, PMS symptoms can be attributed to factors like cyclic hormonal changes, chemical changes in the brain et cetera.
According to Healthline, levels of estrogen and progesterone increase during certain times of the month consequently causing mood swings, anxiety, and irritability. Fluctuations in the levels of serotonin (neurochemical) also affect your mood.
Hello, doc?
It is always wise to have periodical (pun intended) check-ups with your trusted gynecologist. However, if PMS symptoms begin to disrupt your everyday life, it’s best to visit your gynecologist immediately.
Some instances which allow for a visit to the doc include dizziness, excruciating cramps (which disrupts normal functioning) et cetera.
What can I do?
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Start with tracking your periods: You can either use a tracking app for that or opt for the conventional calendar. Tracking will not only help you to be prepared for that time of the month but will also help you understand the regularity of your period.
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Move your body: Like every other aspect of your life, exercise helps with your period too. It will aid in managing symptoms like fatigue and will prevent mood swings by generally elevating your mood.
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Avoid smoking: Smoking cigarettes can worsen PMS symptoms. A study by PLOS ONE states that smokers are more likely to develop PMS and PMDD.
- Drink up! By this, we mean water and juice since they help to reduce bloating and other symptoms. Other fluids like soft drinks, alcohol, and other caffeine-containing beverages are no good to help with PMS.
Other measures include:
- Following a healthy, balanced diet rich in magnesium, vitamin B-6, and calcium.
- Getting sufficient sleep (7-8 hours) to prevent fatigue.
- Pamper yourself by doing mood-alleviating activities like dancing, jamming to songs, or any other hobby of preference.
How does SOQO help?
SOQO’s Leakproof Caviar period underwear helps you to have a comfortable and sustainable menstrual experience.
Our drip-proof technology keeps you worry-free and our wide size range helps you to find the perfect fit for yourself. Plus, our product is completely environment-friendly since we use bamboo as our base.
Head to our Instagram page @soqo.in to know more about SOQO as a brand and our product too. You can gift yourself and your fellow menstruators a better and evolved menstrual experience this Christmas by heading to our official website to buy your period underwear.
Santa SOQO also gives you a discount of up to 25% off in our Christmas and New Year’s Super Sale! Go claim your gift now!
Happy menstruating!
Citations:
https://www.unfpa.org/menstruationfaq
https://www.medicinenet.com/menstruation/article.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20376780
