Periods are difficult, and while some of us have a heart attack if we don’t see it, the truth is that the majority of women (if not all) despise them. It’s tiring to deal with the cramps, nauseousness, and stickiness. We’ve compiled a list of ten items to stay away from around that time of the month. If you follow the majority of them, you’ll have a tolerable, if not perfect, period.
1. Unprotected sex.
Sex has never been encouraged, especially when you’re on your period because blood is a good medium for viruses, which leads to increased STD transmission. During one’s period, the cervix is slightly dilated, making infection more likely. Menstruation also does not preclude pregnancy; in fact, ovulation and bleeding can occur at the same time in women who have more irregular periods.
2. Regular breast examination
While regular breast examination is always beneficial to women, it is not recommended to be done when you are on your period because the breasts are very sensitive to changes in hormonal production. “Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone can cause both breast exams and mammograms to give incorrect results, it can unnecessarily raise a red flag especially when done in the early stages of your period.
3. Leaving sanitary products in for an extended period results in stained sanitary pads.
During your menstrual period, maintain good personal cleanliness, and changing your pad every three to four hours is a crucial step in preventing streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.” Cups and pads should be changed every 12 hours at the very least, and every three to four hours at the absolute least.
4. foods high in salt.
When your body begins to store sodium and fluids a few days before your period, you will feel bloated. Eating high salt foods will only result in more water retention. It is also best to avoid high amounts of salt when you are seeing your period because the sodium in salt causes you to feel bloated and puffy.
5. Caffeine and carbonated beverages consumption.
Caffeine consumption has been linked to an increased frequency of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), according to studies. Caffeine blocks GABA (the “downer” neurotransmitter) in the brain, resulting in anxiety and an increased heart rate. Caffeine intake in excess can constrict blood vessels, causing severe menstruation cramps, anxiety, and mood swings.
6. Cleansers with synthetic scents.
Using perfumed soaps, sprays, or creams during menstruation can cause vaginal irritation and should be avoided. When you are not having your period, it is preferable to use a more natural product because perfumes contribute to an overgrowth of odor-producing bacteria. If you have a strong vaginal odor, you should consult a gynecologist to rule out an infection or an imbalance that requires treatment.
7. Dairy product
Arachidonic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid found in milk, cheese, and ice cream, increases prostaglandins (hormone-like compounds), which can enhance inflammation and induce bloating and cramping.
8. Sugary foods and drinks.
Sugar consumption causes blood sugar levels to increase and fall; too much sugar makes you feel groggy and sleepy; processed sugary foods can change estrogen levels and lower serotonin levels. Estrogen, the female sex hormone, and serotonin, a neurotransmitter hormone that causes mood swings when lacking, are two hormones that cause mood swings. Sugar consumption also ages the skin, making it dull and prone to wrinkles over time. This is due to a chemical reaction known as glycation.
9. Alcohol.
Large amounts of alcohol might cause stomach emptying to take longer, making you feel bloated and heavy. You may feel puffy and bloated after drinking alcohol because it causes you to retain water. The diuretic impact of alcohol exacerbates this, as a dehydrated body retains more water than a hydrated one.
10. Fatty foods and red meat.
Arachidonic acids are found in meat, which aggravates cramping. Furthermore, high-fat diets hurt hormone activity and should be avoided.