Léa | ⏳ 3 min read

10 Things Not to Do During Your Period: A Complete Guide

Painful periods affect many women and can significantly impact their quality of life. Between fatigue, cramps, digestive issues, and mood swings, the body is put to the test.
While some habits can help better manage this period, others can worsen symptoms. Here are 10 things to avoid during your period to limit discomfort, preserve your energy, and experience this time more serenely.

1. Neglecting hydration during your period

During your period, the body loses not only blood but also essential minerals. Not drinking enough can increase fatigue, headaches, and even cramps. Opt for still water, soothing herbal teas (like chamomile), and avoid overly sugary drinks.
Tip: Good hydration also helps limit water retention and bloating, which are common during this time.

2. Consuming too much caffeine when you have painful periods

Coffee, black tea, or energy drinks may seem to provide a boost, but caffeine causes blood vessel constriction which can intensify cramps. Furthermore, it promotes dehydration. Replace them with gentle alternatives like rooibos or soothing infusions.
Also read: The impact of exercise on periods

3. Eating too much salt or sugar during your period

A diet high in salt promotes water retention and increases feelings of bloating. Refined sugar, on the other hand, causes blood sugar spikes followed by energy crashes, which exacerbate fatigue and irritability. Opt for anti-inflammatory foods: green vegetables, fatty fish, red fruits, etc.

4. Ignoring pain related to painful periods

Too many women consider menstrual pain "normal" and resign themselves to it. However, if the pain disrupts your daily activities, it's important to act. Natural solutions exist, such as the Madame Patch - Painful Periods, which combines CBD, turmeric, and mint for quick and lasting relief.

5. Doing overly intense exercise during your period

Moving is beneficial for stimulating blood circulation and reducing cramps, but some overly intense workouts can exhaust a body already weakened by menstruation. Opt for gentle exercises like walking, yoga, or swimming.

6. Postponing rest periods during painful menstruation

Fatigue is a warning sign from the body. Pushing through it can prolong the duration of symptoms. If possible, schedule short breaks to allow your body to recover.

7. Wearing overly tight clothes during your period

Tight jeans or belts can compress the abdomen and intensify pain. Prefer loose and comfortable clothing, especially during painful periods. In summer, opt for breathable materials like cotton or linen.

8. Using irritating products during your period

Some intimate gels or scented feminine hygiene products can disrupt vaginal flora and cause irritation. Choose unscented products and, if necessary, supplement with gentle intimate hygiene care.

9. Exposing yourself to excessive cold with painful periods

Cold contracts muscles and can amplify cramps. Avoid staying in wet clothes after swimming or rain. Prioritize gentle heat sources (hot water bottle, heating pads) to relax muscles, or a natural anti-inflammatory patch for prolonged action.

10. Forcing yourself to stay active despite period pain

Ignoring pain and continuing to work or exercise as if nothing is wrong can lead to deeper fatigue. Listen to your body, adapt your pace, and don't hesitate to combine different natural methods to alleviate symptoms.
Discover our guide to relieving painful periods

Painful periods should not dictate your daily life, but to achieve this, it's essential to avoid certain mistakes that can worsen symptoms. Hydrate, adapt your diet, listen to your body, and explore the natural solutions that work best for you.

Also try our natural patches for painful periods, effective in 20 minutes and discreet under clothing.

Feeling and understanding your body during your period

Every woman experiences her menstrual cycle differently: pain, sensations, mood, energy... These feelings vary from month to month and can be influenced by stress, diet, or sleep.
Learning to listen to your body is key to better anticipating and relieving these natural variations.

👉 To learn more, read our article:
What you feel during your period: a complete guide to better understand the physical and emotional changes related to the menstrual cycle.

Léa | Editorial Manager for Menstrual Health, Madame Patch

Since 2022, I have been writing content to educate you on all topics related to painful periods (PMS, endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS, simulator, etc.).