There’s often a stigma associated with the fact that if you get your period on Valentine’s day that it’s ‘bad’ or ‘unlucky’ or that the day is ‘ruined’, since Valentine’s Day is ‘the most romantic day of the year’. While your period might not be the thing that you want on Valentine’s Day, if it happens, it happens and you need to deal with it. But it does not mean that you have to feel like you need to cancel your plans. Don’t let your period win! In this article, I’ll discuss some ways to help you get through Valentine’s day on your period and how to help you enjoy it, despite not feeling the best.
Being on your period is different for everyone that menstruates. For some people periods don’t get in the way of their life and are able to cope with it with minor side effects and might not even have to take a pain killer. Other people, such as myself, are not quite so fortunate in that we are in pain, discomfort and experience severe side effects, and particularly during the first few days of your period, it can be difficult and challenging to get through the day. So consider this article my Valentine’s Day gift to you and your period, because ultimately we all deserve to enjoy ourselves and have a good day.
talk to your partner
If your partner is planning something special or to spend the day with you, it’s a good idea to let them know ahead of time that you’ll be on your period. This way you can plan to change your tampon/pad/menstrual cup change so there’s no stress of not having access to a toilet or not having time to change. Additionally, if you know you don’t feel up to doing much on Valentine’s Day, it’s a good idea to tell your partner you’d rather Netflix and chill with a hot water and chocolate, particularly so if your periods are difficult to get through.
wear something comfy
Just because it’s Valentine’s Day should you by no means feel compelled to wear something small, close-fitting and sexy for your partner – sorry partner! This is a day (including the rest of your period days) where you should wear whatever you want, and if you want to wear something comfortable then you absolutely should. This will make you feel good about yourself and your body too if you’re in comfy clothing and not feeling restricted in tight clothing or uncomfortable. It’s completely natural to bloat, feel bloated and feel uncomfortable during your period, so why should you put yourself in an outfit that you’re not feeling comfortable in just because it’s Valentine’s Day?
treat yourself
Valentine’s Day is not just about showering your partner with love. It’s a day to also shower yourself with some love! Buy yourself some pads, tampons or if you want to try a menstrual cup – now’s the time! Better yet, buy some chocolate along with your menstrual product. It’s important to be comfortable during your period, so get whatever product makes your period easier and convenient for yourself.
self-love and self-care
Like I said, Valentine’s Day is not just about showering your partner with love, it’s also a day about you. On Valentine’s Day, set yourself aside some time, depending on your schedule, to focus on yourself. Whether that’s mediation, journaling, watching your favourite show, a cup of tea (try without caffeine, because caffeine can make cramps worse), a face-mask or a long shower. Play some music and look after yourself.
a romantic meal
Whether you’re planning a romantic meal with your partner or you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day by yourself, if you’re on your period it’s important to have some foods that are rich in iron. This meal could include food such as spinach, lentils, quinoa, dark chocolate, broccoli, fish or red meat as a few ideas – there’s plenty of information on Google on foods rich in iron.
cravings
While you might feel like eating junk like carbohydrate-filled foods, it’s not really a good idea since this type of food doesn’t have the best nutritional value. But that doesn’t mean it’s not okay to have some unhealthy food that you’re craving. Whether it’s chocolate, desert or a pizza, remember to treat yourself and do what makes you happy.