Here let’s just say that a lot of women out there are not lucky to have pain-free and smooth-sailing periods that let them work to their full potential.
Most complain of how those few days can be taxing and have a huge impact on their work.
The good part is that in the times we live, women have come to grow comfortable around talking about their periods and any discomfort they may be feeling.
No more skirting around and looking for reasons to say it without spelling it loud. It’s heartening how people have started to show more sensitivity towards women on their periods, especially when they come associated with heavy flow, migraines, spasms, and the like.
Tips on managing your periods at work and showing them who’s boss
Periods aren’t the same for everyone; so pick what suits you best from our list of recommendations:
1. Prepare a period kit
Always have a small, discreet period kit tucked away in your desk, bag, or locker.
Remember, to put in your pain relievers, a few pads/ tampons, menstrual cups, wet wipes, an extra pair of underwear, a sanitizer, and a small plastic/ paper bag for disposing of items.
Make sure you replenish what gets used out of the kits, periodically.
2. Track your cycle
Technology is a blessing in most parts.
What with life-assistive applications like Flo or Clue that are so on point with the dates around which your periods will start.
All that goes on them are a few of your personal details and another few questions with regard to your periods, and you have your own personal assistant to send you the reminder when you need to be prepared.
This helps to stock up on essentials accordingly, schedule work, and plan trips and visits better.
3. Wear comfortable clothing
There is nothing that feels better than airy, loose, and dark clothing on period days. They make you feel less anxious from the constant worry of leaks and stains or the feeling of tightness around your bloated belly.
Go dark on your ‘flow’ days to stay light. The ones who are more organized keep their period dresses and lingerie separately for ease of use.
4. Manage period pain
The pain can be quite severe. It’s best to ask a doctor to prescribe some pain relievers that are safe to use.
If making an appointment with a doctor needs some planning, consider over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen to be taken SOS.
Heat patches or portable heating heating pads can also provide relief in a very discreet manner. Roll-on’s and some kinds of green teas are also seen to help with period discomfort.
5. Stay hydrated and eat well
Drink plenty of water and warm fluids, and eat small, balanced meals or snacks to keep your energy levels stable. Warm fluids and avoiding carbonated drinks can help reduce bloating. Avoid caffeinating yourself or having salty food, which can exacerbate symptoms.
Having said that, allow yourself a few indulgences. The spicy burger, the chinese takeaway, the chocolate cake and anything and everything else that is a mood-lifter and makes you feel better about yourself.
It’s not distress eating. Simply call it comfort, guilt-free eating.
6. Schedule regular breaks
Remember to move every few minutes. Walk around, stretch, or take deep breaths, to alleviate discomfort.
Regular bathroom breaks also allow you to change your menstrual products as needed and keep you feeling fresh.
At times, walk to some music to distract yourself from the pain or walk to family, or friends and make some light conversation. Alternatively, you could just choose to draw the curtains and just hit the sack for some shut-eye (if you feel a little settled and the pain is not a nag).
7. Practice good hygiene
Change your menstrual products regularly.
Use wipes and tissues to keep clean and fresh. Sanitizers are handy especially when you aren’t able to wash your hands immediately.
Personal hygiene is uncompromisable to avoid rashes and itches and infections of the genital area.
8. Communicate with your employer if needed
Speak to your employer in clear words about your tough days.
Ask for work from home/ relaxed hours of work/ leave. See how things can be managed without causing too much inconvenience.
Don’t beat about the bush when talking about your aggravated symptoms like heavy bleeding or debilitating cramps. There is nothing to feel awkward about and unless you speak and reach out for help, there is none coming your way.
So lose your inhibitions and speak your discomfort.
9. Create a comfortable workspace
Modern office spaces have started to have these little places like pods, small sanctuaries within the office where you can stretch out and relax for a while.
Almost all workplaces pay a lot of attention to sourcing ergonomically designed furniture to ensure comfort of the employees. Additionally, one could think of using a lumbar support or cushion to give the extra support to your back while you sit on your chair.
10. Stay calm and confident
One is prone to mood swings on days when you are in menstrual discomfort. Don’t let it make you anxious. It’s a part of life and these are just tough days that will pass soon enough.
Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques. Breathe deeply and alleviate your mood by doing little things that make you feel happy. You could paint, doodle, play a word game, listen to a podcast- anything that works for you.
11. Plan ahead for busy days
If you have busier days on your heavy flow days, make sure you have factored in frequent bathroom breaks or breaks for tea/ coffee.
Be dressed accordingly to avoid leaks and stains. Wear extra protection like extra large pads for heavy bleeding. Keep extra pads and panty liners.
12. Know your workplace resources
It pays to know your workplace well like the location of the restrooms.
If your workplace provides menstrual products through dispensers, take advantage of them. Familiarize yourself with policies that support you, such as wellness rooms or flexible break times.
Ask around for other initiatives they may have in place for women. Join clubs they may have or grievance cells they have in place to hear the employees out.
Conclusion
Periods are a part and parcel of every woman’s life. Sometimes they come and go. There are times when they keep you in a lot of pain.
Women are more sensitive at this time and a lot more anxious and distracted. It is important for them to know that they can ask for sympathetic treatment of their case, some leeways on tougher days, demand for being given a waiver/ flexible/ lighter workload on others.
Women must grow out of their inhibitions and communicate freely.
We got you ways to go about asking for what you seek in your workplace and so much more. Stay with us and subscribe to our blog for more such tips!
