You've organized the perfect trip, except that you have your period just before you leave. Having your period on vacation is annoying, but there are several ways to alleviate the problem and feel comfortable. Prepare necessary products for your personal hygiene, spare underwear and painkillers. Hydrate well and then just think about having fun!
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Preparing for the Journey
Step 1. Bring some feminine hygiene products
Pads inside, outside or the menstrual cup… make sure you have everything you need ready before you leave. Over-calculate how many things you will need, so you don't run out of it. For example, if you use 4 tampons a day at home, bring 6. If your period catches you by surprise in the middle of your vacation, go to the supermarket to buy everything you need, or ask a friend to lend you some. absorbent.
Remember that in some countries you will not find the same products you usually use. For example, in central Europe it is more difficult to find tampons with applicators
Step 2. Prepare some pain relievers
If you think your period will begin before you leave or while traveling, bring some painkillers. Ibuprofen and aspirin can fight cramps. You can also opt for naproxen or acetaminophen. Remember that in some countries it is not possible to buy over-the-counter pain relievers. You can, however, put them in the hold suitcase. If you will be visiting a country where access to painkillers is limited, take enough for the duration of your cycle.
- Follow the instructions on the package insert and do not overdo the doses. If you take prescription medicines, talk to your doctor about any interactions.
- It's not a drug, but a self-heating device for menstrual pain can come in handy. It generally comes with an adhesive to be applied to the abdominal area.
Step 3. Choose the right clothes
If you know you will have your period while on vacation, pack your suitcase accordingly. For example, add an extra pair of panties to your to-do list. Also consider which clothes you find most comfortable at that time of the month. Loose skirts are far more comfortable than tight jeans. Wearing a pair of tight shorts under a skirt can also make you feel more comfortable.
- Bringing comfortable clothes doesn't mean being sloppy. Keep in mind your destination and any dress rules.
- Waterproof briefs can help prevent leaks when you are out all day.
Step 4. Plan your days wisely
If possible, plan your trip in detail to be as comfortable as possible. It all depends on how you tend to feel when you have your period. For example, if you know your first day is challenging, don't plan any adventurous activities. Avoid strenuous hikes or excessively long walks. Also avoid saunas where you have to take off your bathing suit. For the first few days, take the opportunity to take short walks, go to the movies, or engage in other quiet activities.
Not all holidays guarantee this flexibility. However, you can generally control certain factors, such as how many hours you sleep. If you feel particularly tired when you are on your period, try to go to sleep earlier and / or wake up later
Step 5. Consider your sex life
For example, if you get your period on your honeymoon, you can still have intimate moments with your boyfriend. Bring old dark towels so you don't get your hotel sheets dirty. To find out more, read this article.
Part 2 of 3: Traveling
Step 1. Prepare a kit
If any trips are planned during the trip, it is important to put everything you need in your bag or backpack. Prepare a daily kit with sanitary pads and other personal hygiene items, pain relievers, and spare underwear. Add a travel pack of wet wipes - they can help you feel fresh and clean.
- If you're traveling by plane, pack everything you need in your hand luggage. If you are traveling by car, keep the kit handy, do not put it in the trunk.
- If you will be hiking or camping and do not have trash cans available, put an airtight plastic bag in the kit so that you can store the used items before you can throw them away.
Step 2. Hydrate
It is important to drink enough when out and about, especially if it's hot (prefer filtered water or liquids that are actually moisturizing). Women are recommended 2, 2 liters (9 glasses) of water per day. You may want to drink more when it's hot and you need to be outside.
- Bring a reusable water bottle for trips, air travel, or car travel.
- Make sure you drink enough when in flight. In the cabin, the humidity can drop by up to 20%, so you risk feeling out of the way.
Step 3. Eat the right foods
When you're on your period, go for nutritious and healthy foods. Sometimes it's hard to eat well on vacation, but opt for salads, fresh fruit, and whole grains rather than fried and salty foods. Get enough protein too. Women with heavy periods can have iron deficiencies. To prevent them, try to eat more:
- Red meats (for example a slice of beef);
- Poultry;
- Fish;
- Dried fruit;
- Green leafy vegetables.
Step 4. Plan bathroom stops
If possible, plan to keep everything under control. For example, you might decide to stop by for morning coffee, lunch, and an afternoon snack. Bars and restaurants usually provide toilets. If you have to pay to use it, be sure to bring some change.
- If you have to take a long trip by plane or car, go to the bathroom every 3 to 4 hours. This also benefits circulation and muscles.
- If you are traveling on a long plane or car, it is very important to change your tampon regularly to avoid unpleasant odors and prevent toxic shock syndrome.
Part 3 of 3: Swim
Step 1. Put on a comfortable costume
When you are on your period, it is best to wear a swimsuit that covers the groin area and buttocks well. In other words, avoid the thong! The model shouldn't be too tight either, so as not to highlight the swelling.
If you are concerned about leaking, choose a dark swimsuit or wear waterproof shorts over your briefs. Sports costumes are also good in this regard
Step 2. Use a tampon or menstrual cup to avoid leaking in the water or when you go out
This will keep the flow under control. If you are not used to using them, read this article.
Step 3. If you feel unwell and don't want to go into the water, sunbathe, but put on protection
With menstrual cramps, relaxing under an umbrella is sometimes what it takes. To find out more, read this article.
Advice
- Don't let your period stop you.
- Don't feel embarrassed. They all have periods. If you run out of pads, ask someone for them.
- If you take the pill, ask your gynecologist if you can skip the placebo tablets to delay your period. Don't do this without a doctor's guidance.
- If you have bad cramps, tell your travel companions. They are required to know when you feel bad, so they can go to meet you.
