A woman menstruates for about 7 years in her entire lifetime which is a huge time. Wrong information or insufficient information can make these days highly miserable. A woman starts experiencing pain and cramps from premenstrual time to the end of menses. And after that also rashes and discomfort are so common. Here is the list of things that you can do or are not supposed to do during your menstrual cycle.

Things you should do during your menstrual cycle

Protein-rich foods

One should eat protein-rich food as it provides energy and reduces fatigue in the body. Other than this protein-rich food keeps you full for longer and thus it keeps you away from the craving for unhealthy food choices.

Personal hygiene

Bathing regularly and properly can keep you free from disease. The body gets prone to several infections during these periods. All girls need to change pads every few hours along with showering daily to avoid contracting any infections.

Warm showers

Warm showers help to ease pain from cramps. It was believed that taking showers or hair baths was not recommended during these periods but some studies do not agree with this fact. The studies support the fact that there is no negative effect of doing so.

Hydrating

Drinking water or water-rich fruits and vegetables is otherwise also very much essential not only in periods. Menstruation can cause dehydration, discomfort, and headaches. Coconut water is one such drink that can be very much helpful in replenishing the lost energy and weakness.

Things that you shouldn’t do during your menstrual cycle

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol is an easy means to relax and is universally accepted. It is actually a CNS depressant. Drinking alcohol may worsen the pre-existing negative feelings, mood swings or anxiety, and fatigue one might be experiencing during periods.

Junk food

The body gets weak during periods and it requires nutrient-rich food and enough hydration to cope with the symptoms of menstruation. What you eat during these days very much affects your mood and behavior. Junk foods are totally unhealthy food items that may worsen your period’s symptoms. They can also make you bloat. Thus, they are a clear ‘No’.

Unprotected sex

Many of us consider period sex as a pregnancy-safe option. Sexual intercourse during your periods is okay. But it may land up in pregnancy in rare cases. Thus, opt for protected sex and not sex without protection. This will prevent any kind of unwanted pregnancy and will also protect you from any kind of STDs.

(Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be taken as professional medical advice.  Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other health professionals for any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.)