#VaginaProblems. No matter what you may experience, be it that regular period grind or a chronic illness such as endometriosis, we've all been there. However, putting your life on hold for a week is never an option, even if it'd be the easiest way to cope.
So when that time of the month rolls around, what's a busy person with #VaginaProblems to do?
Sure, there's a million and one how-to's on coping with your period, but when you need to be on the go, you don't have time to read through all of them. This list isn't so much of a how-to, but more of a list of things to have on hand when the going gets tough and the blood gets flowing.
1. A Period Tracker
There's a reason why this one is on every list-- the best way to cope with your period is to prepare for it, and since no one likes playing guessing games (or Russian Roulette with your favorite underwear), a period tracker is a nice preventative step. You can use an app (such as Eve or Clue) or, if you're on the pill, you can make a personal calendar, (such as in a bullet journal or just your Google calendar)! Just giving yourself a heads up in that department can help so much.
2. Heating Pad
Heating pads, in general, are a godsend when it comes to coping with cramps, but most of them require you to plug them in (or warm them up in the microwave, like my favorite rice bag) and so limits your mobility. Enter the heat wrap, which can be put on under your clothes and promises 8 hours of heat when you're internally dying but need to go to school or work.
3. Essential Oils
You've probably heard it before, but essential oils are still around for a reason! There's a lot of specific oils that goes into this roll-on relief (like bergamot, clary sage, geranium rose, and so on) for pain relief or at least to soothe any aches and pains. If you're able to, you can even put together your own mixture. (I recommend adding lavender, as it calms you down and even can help you sleep despite any pain!)
4. Period Panties, like Thinx
For those days when you're too sore to deal with tampons, but your outfit asks for anything but a pad, period panties like Thinx can be a lifesaver. You can wear it alone, or as a backup for your diva cup, but either way--no need to worry about leaks!!
5. Chocolate
I'm a firm believer in treating yourself during your period week, so yes, chocolate deserves a place on the list. Slip a few into your purse, or sit down and eat the whole bag. The world is your candy dish, and when you're bleeding out of your vagina, or having cramps so bad that you can barely stand, chocolate will be there.
No matter what you use to cope with your #VaginaProblems, just remember-- you're in charge here.
