Does your period turn you into a cranky, food-scoffing biatch? Here’s how to use your beastly power for good.
Does your period turn you into a cranky, food-scoffing biatch? Here’s how to use your beastly power for good.
First, there’s the bloating and backache, then there’s the cramps and cravings. Oh, and don’t forget the sore boobs and mood swings. But, apart from warning your closest friends and family, stockpiling chocolate, locking away sharp implements, and hiding under your blanket with a hot water bottle, is there anything we can do to stop the tidal wave of homicidal hormones that is PMS?
According to a new study by confidence coach Dawn Breslin, in conjunction with Always sanitary products in the UK, we may not be able to control our hormones, but we can manage the impact they have on our daily lives. The research reveals that tapping into our monthly cycle and listening to what our hormones are telling us could, in fact, hold the key to happiness. Dawn recommends paying attention to our body’s needs by planning our diary according to its natural cycle, which she compares to the flow of the seasons.
WINTER (ovulation to menstruation)
This is PMS season, so “it’s a good chance to spend time away from everyday stresses,” says Dawn. “Me” time at home is essential, particularly as increased irritability is likely to cause arguments. But, before you settle in for the night and reach for that four-pack of Cornettos, bear in mind that your period isn’t the only thing flowing right now. According to Dawn, your creative juices will also be ripe and ready, so now’s a great time to start planning renovations or writing that book.
SPRING (menstruation to post-menstruation)
“Low levels of oestrogen and progesterone mean your spatial orientation skills are better, so now’s an ideal time to hit the club or take up dancing lessons,” suggests Dawn. Partying every night is not recommended, though. “Energy can be low now, so respond to what your body is telling you.”
SUMMER (post-menstruation to pre-ovulation)
“You should be feeling more outgoing, energetic, upbeat and inspired,” says Dawn. “So, why not try out that new fi tness class you heard about or take up yoga or Pilates?”
AUTUMN (pre-ovulation to ovulation)
“Energy is still running high, so you should be feeling open and receptive to others,” says Dawn. “Make new friends, ace a job interview, or join a public workshop. You’re less receptive to pain as well, so this is the best time of the month to book in a bikini wax or test yourself by taking up tougher sports.”
PERIOD, meet Menstrual Cup
We’re all familiar with sanitary pads and tampons. But did you know that there’s a third option?
WHAT Menstrual cups are bell-shaped instruments made from medical-grade silicone. It’s inserted into the vagina to collect the discharge. Users will have to pour the contents out of the cup after removal, wash it, and insert it in again after.
WHY It’s good for the environment, considering you won’t be creating waste. It’ll also save you a money in the long run because a menstrual cup can last for years. Freedom Cup, $28. Available at www.freedomcups.org.
WHERE There isn’t a physical store in Singapore where you can pick up a menstrual cup but a quick Google search can throw up some local and international retailers that do home deliveries. There’s even a smart menstrual cup called the LOONCUP, which can connect to your phone and keeps track of your cycle, fluid volume and discharge colour with an in-built sensor. How convenient is that?
HOW Fold your menstrual cup according to your preference (C-fold, shell fold, triangle fold, etc). Get into a comfortable position, like what you do for tampon insertion, and relax your vaginal muscles. Slide the folded cup in until it is comfortable, and make sure you hear or feel it pop open. The stem of the cup should not be sticking out of you. To remove, use your pelvic muscles to push the cup down, pinch the base of the cup to release the vacuum seal and pull. Remember to make sure that your hands are clean before inserting or removing your menstrual cup.
You can purchase a menstrual cup from Freedom Cup (www.freedomcups.org). The local social enterprise sells their menstrual cups for only $28 each, and the best part is that for every cup purchased, they will also donate one to a woman from an underprivileged community.
THE PMH DIET
Eating the right nutrients can dramatically reduce the symptoms of PMS. Sadly, none of those goodies can be found in a MacDonald’s meal or a tub of ice cream. Here are the best ways to combat some typical “monthly” problems:
CRAVINGS
Low blood sugar levels caused by hormonal changes lead to junk food cravings. Instead, eat plenty of high-fibre foods, such as fruit, seeds, nuts, and wholegrain cereal to aid digestion as well as keep blood sugar levels steady.
MOOD SWINGS
Rollercoaster sugar levels are what leave us tired and irritable. Choose low-GI carbs, such as wholegrain bread, brown rice, wholewheat pasta and sweet potatoes to manage your blood sugar levels. Cut out caffeine, alcohol, salt, and sugar. These stimulate tension, making you more likely to lose it with someone.
BLOATING
It’s normal to gain 1.4 to 3.2kg of fluid before your period. Consume lots of fruit, vegetables and water, as they’ll flush out your system.
Can everybody use a menstrual cup?
Yes, most women can use a menstrual cup comfortably. Freedom Cups are designed to fit both pre- and post- childbirth women, and we made them slightly smaller and more malleable than the international average to better suit our more petite Asian builds. Those with pre- existing medical issues or are currently using IUDs should run a check with their gynaecologists before getting a cup.
What are some benefits of switching over from disposable sanitary products?
It saves you money, about $3000 over a 10-year period, and it is a much more eco-friendly product because it produces almost zero waste compared to disposable pads and tampons which are mostly non biodegradeable. It can also reduce the incidence of yeast infections! You’ll have ease of mind because menstrual cups are leak-free for up to 12 hours, plus they’re very comfortable. You literally can’t feel it once it’s inserted, and it gives you the freedom to engage in rigorous sports or water activities even while on your period.
How often should we empty out the cup?
And how can we do so in a public toilet? For a majority of users, the cup is able to hold 10 to 12 hours of flow each day, so you can insert it in the morning before work, and remove it when you’re taking a shower after you’re back home. If you’re experiencing a heavier flow, have a pad or panty liner on – the overflow will just come out like your regular period does. If you need to empty your cup while you’re out and about, just bring a bottle of water into the toilet cubicle with you to do the washing. Alternatively, you can use a handicap toilet, since the sink is inside the cubicle itself.
Can I still swim?
Yes, in fact, the Freedom Cup is ideal for such activities because it creates a vacuum seal against the vaginal wall when inserted, so it won’t shift around and that helps to prevent leakage.
Is buying one menstrual cup sufficient for all my needs?
One menstrual cup is enough. After all, you just need to wash and dry it at the end of every use.
