Tips for Studying on Your Period

Periods. They can be obnoxious and painful. Sometimes so painful that you feel like doing nothing by staying in bed all day. Unfortunately, life doesn't pause for your time of the month. Moments of pain and discomfort can happen during mid-terms or finals, when you have papers to write or exams to prepare for. Over the years, I've found a couple ways to cope (even though I don't experience menstrual cramps often), and I recently reached out to my female friends to find out what tips they have for battling your period and still having a successful study session.

Pack extra pads/tampons. Always be prepared. Even if you're not due to start anytime soon, keep them on hand. Knowing that you have a supply close by - locker, bookbag, desk, bathroom - can alleviate the stress and panic of suddenly getting your period.

Dark, comfy clothing. Dark clothes are a good choice during your period because they ease the worry of accidental leakage. When I'm on my period, I practically live in sweatpants. They're comfortable and stretchy so I can sit for long periods of time for class or to study despite any pain or bloating.

Heating pads. I've never used a heating pad, but I've heard that they seriously do wonders for cramps. If you bring a small heating pad or heated water bottle to press against your abdomen, you can ease the pain of cramps.

Work at home if you can. Listen to your body! If you can tell that moving is going to be too much for you, do your best to get through some work at home - your body can rest and do what it needs to, and you can be sure you don't get too far behind in your work. But don't forget to e-mail your teachers. Don't be specific, but let them know that you weren't feeling well enough to come to class. I always use the phrase "feeling under the weather" when I find that I have to stay home because of my period. Professors typically don't question feeling ill and most don't require any proof that you were sick.

Take stretching breaks. There have been studies that say exercise can help alleviate period symptoms. But I know it isn't always possible to complete a full exercise routine. Simple, quick stretches work just as well to get your muscles warmed up and to help ease the cramps.

Drink a lot of water. It's necessary for your body to function; it's even more important when you're on your period. Staying hydrated can reduce cramping and bloating.

Pain medicine. I hate taking medicine for anything - period (no pun intended). Cramps, headaches...I didn't even want to get an epidural when I had my two kids! But sometimes you just can't help it. Make sure you have some pain medicine with you just in case. There's no point in forcing yourself to deal with the pain; it will only distract you from studying.

Pack treats. Sometimes periods can make you hungry. And I don't know about y'all, but I can't concentrate when I'm hungry. To beat the hunger, pack some snacks! But be careful - salty snacks may make you more bloated.

Pickle juice & other home remedies. I've never tried any of the remedies suggested on this website, but apparently there are women who swear by them. I've had a few friends tell me that the acidity of pickle juice can help with cramps.

#tips