Your best cycle yet: 8 tips for a better period

With 1.8 billion of us menstruating each month, at Fri Period we're committed to a better period.

So here are eight of our fave tips to have a better menstrual cycle.

1. BE A GINGER NINJA

Did you know that several scientific studies have found ginger to be just as effective as over-the-counter pain medication for combatting period cramps?

We take ginger supplements in the lead-up to and throughout our period, and have noticed a drastic improvement in any cramping or discomfort.

2. PERIOD PAMPERING

Use the start of your period as a time to refocus your attention inwards, and invest in self-care and pampering treats you don't get around to the rest of the month. You can inject an element of self-care and indulgence into your period, and it may even turn into something you look forward to.

At Fri Period, our go-to period pampers are a luxurious bath (I'm talking upmarket bath salts, a calming face mask, and alllll the candles!), a fave chocolate dessert, and an evening curled under a blanket with the latest New York Times bestseller.

Whatever floats your boat, use your period as an excuse to invest in yourself and, who knows, you may end up looking forward to when it comes around each month.

3. BE A BATH BABE

This ties in slightly with the point above, but we can't stress enough how much we love a good soak on our period. We love to throw in a generous dose of epsom bath salts. The magnesium in epsom salt works by reducing the level of prostaglandins, which are the hormone-like compound responsible for period cramps. It's an amazing tool for relieving period stress.

And don't worry about mess - the pressure from the bath water helps contain your period. Just be sure to move swiftly when you get out. We always keep a fresh pair of Fri Period underwear nearby so we can put them on straight away.

4. TRACK YOUR CYCLE

Cycle tracking goes beyond knowing when your period is due. Throughout our cycle, our fluctuating hormones impact our energy levels and how we feel in all sorts of ways. By making a habit of noting these changes throughout the month, we can often start to identify patterns. And that's when the magic happens. Imagine knowing exactly which days you're likely to need a bit more help getting a good sleep, or when is the best day to push for that best time on your usual jogging route?

Cycle tracking is an incredible tool to live with more kindness and grace towards yourself. In fact, we think it's kind of a super power.

Click here to read more, and download our free, printable cycle tracker.

5. LIMIT STRESS

This probably doesn't come as a surprise, but stress can wreak havoc with your cycle, including leading to irregular periods and exacerbating PMS symptoms.

Incorporating some mindfulness and stress-relieving techniques into your routine can work wonders. In fact, we find some of the tips above (cue pampering baths) to be really helpful for this.

We know all too well that it's impossible to completely avoid stress, but simply being aware of and understanding the impact it has on your cycle can really make a difference. That's another reason we love cycle tracking!

6. I LIKE TO MOVE IT, MOVE IT

Exercise is one of your menstrual cycle's besties! Engaging in regular physical activity can reduce stress, boost mood, and alleviate menstrual cramps. Some people swear by a good walk or some gentle yoga to relieve their period pain (but sitting on the couch watching rom-coms is amazing too!).

7. KNOW YOUR BODY

Whoever said knowledge is power was on to something. t's important to understand what's "normal" and what isn't, and if you suspect something isn't quite right, then speak to someone.

Some discomfort during your period is common, but this should be mild. If period cramps become debilitating, don't suffer in silence – seek support and help when you need it. The same applies for mood swings, along with irregular and heavy cycles: these can all signal underlying issues, so it's important to seek help. You can always email us at hello@friperiod.com and we'll do our best to point you in the right direction.

8. USE FRI PERIOD

Okay, admittedly we're a tad biased here, but hear us out. We created Fri Period because we wanted to make periods better. They are supremely comfortable to wear (hello US-grown organic cotton with just the right amount of stretch!) and free of PFAS or other chemical nasties that can mess with your body. Plus, they make it easy to have a more sustainable period without sacrificing on comfort or convenience (us busy gals don't have time to faff around, amIright?). Make sure you're subscribed to our emails for 20% off!