Discover the Unexpected Ways Your

Body Reacts During Menstruation

Embarking on the journey of womanhood is often marked by the onset of your first period. It's a new experience that brings hormonal and physical changes. While it may be uncomfortable to discuss initially, having a trusted person to talk to can make the transition much easier. After all, menstruation is a shared experience among almost every female.

Surprising Body Changes During Your Period

1. Voice fluctuations: Did you know that your voice can change during your period? Studies indicate that some women experience a lower pitch at the beginning of their menstrual cycle. This can be advantageous for those who enjoy singing or are sopranos in their high school choir. As the cycle progresses, their voices may become hoarser and rougher, gradually returning to normal towards the end. Estrogen fluctuations play a role in these vocal changes during the menstrual cycle.

2. Bathroom habits: You might have heard of the term "period poop," and it turns out there's truth to it. Your period affects various bodily functions, including bowel movements. Many women notice changes in their bowel movements when their period starts, experiencing either constipation or diarrhea. These changes are attributed to the same hormones responsible for uterine contractions during menstruation, which also affect muscle contractions in the bowels. Diarrhea can be common during this time due to altered water absorption in the body.

3. Cognitive effects: The impact of menstruation on cognitive abilities is a controversial topic with inconclusive research findings. However, some women may experience what's known as "brain fog" during their periods. Hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle can lead to forgetfulness and indecisiveness.

4. Skin sensitivity: Estrogen plays a significant role in the changes our skin undergoes during the menstrual cycle. Some women may experience acne, while others notice heightened skin sensitivity. As estrogen levels drop before menstruation, skin sensitivity, acne, and blemishes may occur. Consider delaying activities like leg shaving or eyebrow waxing to avoid potential skin irritation.

5. Sleep disturbances: Have you ever struggled to sleep around the time of your period? Hormonal shifts affecting sleep are another common phenomenon. Estrogen and progesterone levels decline as the period approaches, but estrogen declines earlier than progesterone. This uneven shift in hormones can lead to insomnia and sleepless nights. Other factors such as breast tenderness, bloating, and cramping associated with periods can also disrupt sleep.

6. Increased fatigue: With extracurricular activities and studying, feeling excessively tired is the last thing we need. However, low energy levels are common during menstruation. Sudden drops in estrogen levels and blood loss can contribute to feelings of fatigue and laziness. Ensure you get sufficient sleep each night to wake up feeling refreshed.

Helpful Tips for That Time of the Month

- Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep per night before and during your period.

- Use a heating patch for menstrual cramps throughout the day. Some patches provide discreet and long-lasting relief for up to 12 hours.

- Invest in leak-proof underwear, such as Beautikini. Period underwear, to eliminate the need for pads or tampons. It reduces odor, provides invisibility under clothing, and offers different absorbency levels for lighter or heavier days.

- Stay hydrated by carrying a cute reusable tumbler and filling it regularly. Consider using a tumbler that tracks your daily water intake to ensure proper hydration.

- Avoid salty foods that contribute to bloating and water retention.

- Satisfy your sweet cravings with dark chocolate, which offers several benefits during your period.

- Engage in light exercise like walking to increase blood flow and circulation, while also releasing mood-enhancing endorphins.

In conclusion, despite period trackers, "aunt flow" can still surprise us. However, we can prepare ourselves by focusing on maintaining our health and well-being during that time of the month. Having easily accessible period underwear can make starting your period more manageable. Remember, feeling tired is normal, but staying hydrated is crucial. If anything feels concerning, reach out to a trusted individual, whether it be a doctor, family member, or friend.