Periods 101, Work
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How to survive your period at work
Surviving your period at work is not a small task. From throbbing headaches & pulsating cramps to rollercoaster emotions and hormones. Bleeding from your vagina is hard enough work. But alas, until menstrual leave comes into legislation (which we think could be a bloody good idea by the way), follow these tips for how to survive menstruating whilst bossing it in the boardroom and beyond…
How to survive your period at work
Painkillers are your best friend
Don’t be a martyr. Stock up on painkillers. And be sure to take them well before you leave for work, so they kick in before the daily grind begins. If you prefer natural pain relief, why not try a reusable heat pad on your abdomen to relax your muscles and ease the pain.
Plan your workload accordingly
If you are one of the lucky ones whose cycle runs like clockwork and knows when to expect your period, this one's for you. If possible, it could be a good idea to try and schedule any important meetings, deadlines or presentations so that they don’t fall during your period.
Prioritising different tasks at different times of the month is the revolutionary technique devised by Maisie Hill. Read our Q&A with her here. Avoid tasks at work that may require high energy levels or leave you overly emotional.
Stay hydrated
You know the drill. Drinking enough water at work is always key, but especially so whilst Aunt Flo is visiting. Water aids digestion, boosts energy levels and concentration and helps to eliminate toxins from the body. But don’t be fooled into thinking all those cups of coffee and tea are doing the trick – caffeinated drinks actually act as diuretics and thus lead to dehydration.
Try to stay active
Exercise improves blood & oxygen circulation, including to your pelvic area , which can help alleviate menstrual cramps. It has also been proven to lift mood and promote sleep – both of which can take a downward turn in the run up to and during your period. Fitting gym visits into a busy work schedule can seem both daunting and unrealistic at the best of times, but especially whilst menstruating. Why not walk part of your way to work, or go for a brisk 30 minute walk during lunch instead. Small changes make a big difference! If intense workouts aren't your thing, read our blog all about gentle exercise to with help period cramps.
Be kind to yourself
Even if it is as small as taking 5 minutes to do some deep breathing at your desk, or treating yourself to something sweet with your afternoon coffee, it is particularly important to practise self-care during your period. If you are feeling particularly emotional or in pain, why not confide in a trusted co-worker for a friendly ear or moral support if necessary.
Eat right
Little and often should be your mantra when it comes to eating during your period. Your body will crave vitamin C and B6, found in chicken, fish, nuts, bananas, eggs and citrus fruits.
Avoid foods high in salt, as these encourage water retention and bloating. Caffeine is also a no no. It can increase how many cramps you experience and even cause vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) and blocks a hormone that can make blood vessels smaller which’ll slow the flow of blood. Hello, more painful cramps!
Check out another blog for more tips on eating better during your period.
Dress for comfort
Prioritise comfort and practicality when dressing for work on your period – avoid tight waistbands or restrictive clothing where possible. If you're feeling conscious or concerned about leaking, that sensational white jumpsuit might need to wait until next week.
Stock up on period products
We cater for all your period needs. Remember, your comfort & convenience is most important (especially when you’re busy bossing it), so what’s going to work best for you?
Our organic cotton pads & tampons are breathable and available in a range of absorbancies. They’re also free from nasties like plastic & bleach, so you know you’re looking after yourself. If freedom is what you’re after, our reusable pants & cups could be for you.
Encourage your company to provide safe & sustainable period care
We believe it important for business owners to provide the most basic of amenities, such as easy access to healthy period care by providing free products in their office bathrooms & sanitary bins. But why not go one step further? It's not enough for your HR Manager to simply pop to the supermarket and grab the first box of tampons they find. It's important to do the research and find period care that's safe & healthy for the team. If you’re interested in offering &SISTERS by Mooncup organic cotton period care to your employees please do get in touch with us.
