LET'S TALK PERIOD PAINS

Have you ever had to use the bathroom
while battling
​the inevitable
and always unwanted cramps?

You're not alone! Menstruation pain is something most of us know too well. While time is really the answer to alleviating the pain and discomfort, we've come up with some successful ideas to ease your pain days.

Heating Pads or Water Bottle with Hot Water
The heat sits well against your muscles. Heat is always a good idea with cramps! They have disposable heating pads  at pharmacies, but if they're too far out of reach, you can always make it yourself! Try an empty bottle (water or ketchup bottle will do) and add some hot water and place on your lower tummy.

Pillows
They are specifically helpful when pressed against your lower abdomen. We like fluffy pillows. They work best! You know when you've got cramps combined with the need of a number two (poopy time)? Water bottle (or heating pad) along with a pillow help make the experience less stressful and smoother. Plus, you can use it to rest your ahead against it while you just sit in the toilet!  

Got a stack of magazines? Keep them handy because if you don't have a stool, these will come in handy while you sit in the toilet (whether or not you're in your period).

​Tea
While caffeine doesn't do much good to the pain, hot tea -in particular those with chamomile and lavender- help calm your body and ease the pain. We love to add lemon and honey to sweeten it up! 

Exercise 
I know, who wants to exercise in pain? Many magazines say it and we've tried it. While sometimes exercise is the last thing you want, a little cardio and some abs do help! We put it to the test and found that after a few minutes into a workout, you forget about the pain. Worth a try! 

Got ideas? Tell us in the comments! We'd love to hear them so we can share with the IC community. 

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​by Jessica Gonzalez Ferrer
www.jessicagferrer.com