The menstrual cycle is part of the nature of the woman, but at the same time it is not a "pleasant" phenomenon, so it is understandable to hope that it passes quickly. On average, menstruation lasts 2-7 days and is not always regular: some times it may be longer and more abundant than others. Below you will find some methods to try, which have been scientifically proven, to reduce cycle length and lighten the flow.
Steps
Method 1 of 8: Take the birth control pill
Step 1. Consult your gynecologist to find out if you can take the birth control pill
Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary to have a sex life to take this drug. In many cases, it is used to have shorter and less painful menstrual cycles. After the visit, the gynecologist will recommend the birth control pill that best suits your health condition and the reasons that drive you to take it.
- With some types of pills you can even completely break the cycle. In many cases the therapy consists of 21 active pills and 7 placebo pills, to be taken one per day. However, it is possible to request a therapy consisting of active pills only if you want to stop the menstrual cycle.
- If you are a teenager and you are concerned that your parents will not allow you to take this drug, consult the legal framework in force in the country where you live or consult an adult you trust. In many parts of the world it is allowed to take birth control pills without parental permission.
Method 2 of 8: Try an IUD to thin the lining of the uterus
Step 1. Progestin-releasing intrauterine devices (from English Intra-Uterine Device, IUD) effectively reduce the flow during the menstrual cycle
They are implanted in the uterus by the gynecologist and can last up to 5 years. They tend to regulate menstrual flow when it is abundant.
- If you've always had a fairly light period, it may even stop once you've implanted this contraceptive device.
- The most common side effects include acne, spotting, mood swings, and breast tenderness. Benign ovarian cysts can also sometimes develop, but it's not serious because they usually disappear spontaneously within a year.
- If you are interested in an intrauterine device, consult your gynecologist. Side effects and serious complications are very rare, but it could be a contraindicated solution in case of sexually transmitted infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterus or cervical cancer.
Method 3 of 8: Train regularly
Step 1. With 20-30 minutes a day of physical activity you can improve your general health condition
According to some studies, moderate-intensity exercise can reduce cramps before and during the menstrual cycle. It can also lighten the flow or shorten the cycle length. Just make sure that it doesn't disappear completely, as sometimes happens to athletes subjected to intense training. If the cycle is regular, it actually indicates good health: if it stops completely, the body could suffer decompensation and probably is not receiving the nutrients it needs.
Choose a sport you enjoy so you don't see it as a burdensome task. Set goals that allow you to feel good rather than focusing on the outward appearance. The length of the cycle depends more on general health conditions than on body weight
Method 4 of 8: Speed up your cycle with orgasm
Step 1. Orgasm promotes the expulsion of menstrual blood
It is not a proven method in long studies, but it seems that it causes the uterus to contract. If you have an orgasm during your period, contractions can speed up the release of blood and uterine lining.
- If you're worried about making a mess, consider having sex or masturbating in the shower.
- Keep in mind that, contrary to popular belief, you can get pregnant during your menstrual cycle (although the chance is much lower than on other days). Use a condom if there is penetration during intercourse and you do not take the birth control pill.
Method 5 of 8: Use myrtle berry syrup
Step 1. You can buy it on the Internet or find it in organic food stores
It is an ancient folk remedy widespread in Iran, used to shorten the duration of the menstrual cycle. Some scientific studies have shown its effectiveness. Just take 15ml 3 times a day, for 7 days, starting on the first day of your period.
- According to research, by taking this syrup regularly, the cycle is shortened by at least 2 days.
- Although this remedy has been used for hundreds of years, there are no studies on its side effects or its long-term safety. So, be cautious and keep side effects under control while taking the syrup.
Method 6 of 8: Drink a cup or two of herbal tea to lighten your menstrual flow
Step 1. Herbal teas from raspberry leaves, ginger and yarrow can also be useful for your purpose
For best results, drink a couple of cups a day starting a few days before your period starts. They help relieve cramps and other symptoms associated with PMS, as well as improve blood circulation. No scientific studies have definitively proven that these teas are capable of shortening cycle length, however if you like the taste, they are worth a try.
According to another study, chamomile is also able to decrease the release of blood, lightening the flow and potentially shortening the cycle
Method 7 of 8: Use the menstrual cup
Step 1. According to some women, the menstrual cup would help reduce the length of the menstrual cycle
You can buy it online, in pharmacies, and anywhere women's health products are on sale. Just fold it and insert it into your vagina: it opens inside to collect menstrual blood. Read the instructions to figure out how long you can keep it. Remove it over the toilet to avoid getting dirty.
- There is no scientific evidence to support this remedy, but if using the cup doesn't bother you, it's worth a try!
- If you are concerned about dripping, you can always wear a panty liner or a pair of special panties for your period (an easy solution that allows you to soak up the blood without dirtying your clothes).
Method 8 of 8: Take ibuprofen to lighten the flow
Step 1. Ibuprofen relieves cramps and can reduce the release of menstrual blood
Start taking it on the first day of your cycle, following the dosage instructions given in the package insert, and continue for two days thereafter. Do not take a higher dose than indicated without first consulting your doctor.
- The most common side effects include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, headache, and sleepiness. In such cases, you should stop taking it. That said, it is a drug that poses no health risks during the menstrual cycle.
- Avoid medications containing acetylsalicylic acid (such as aspirin), as they have an anticoagulant effect and can actually increase menstrual flow.
