What not to do on your period?
Your period is a natural (though sometimes annoying) part of life. But did you know that some everyday habits can actually make your period symptoms worse?
Whether you’re trying to reduce cramps, feel less bloated, or just survive the day with more comfort, here’s a helpful list of what NOT to do while on your period—and why avoiding these can help you feel better.
1. ❌ Don’t Skip Meals
Periods already cause dips in blood sugar. Skipping meals can worsen fatigue, headaches, and mood swings.
Instead: Eat balanced meals with iron-rich foods and healthy fats.
2. ❌ Don’t Overdo Caffeine
Too much caffeine can constrict blood vessels, increase cramps, make you jittery, or worsen anxiety.
Try this instead: Switch to herbal teas like ginger or raspberry leaf tea.
3. ❌ Don’t Eat Salty or Processed Foods
These can lead to bloating, water retention, and sluggishness.
Better choices: Fresh fruits, steamed vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.
4. ❌ Don’t Ignore Severe Cramps
If your cramps are so bad that they interfere with daily life, it’s not normal. You may have an underlying condition like endometriosis or PCOS.
What to do: Talk to a healthcare provider if pain lasts more than 2–3 days or affects your ability to function.
5. ❌ Don’t Wear the Same Pad or Tampon Too Long
This can increase the risk of odor, irritation, infection, or toxic shock syndrome (TSS) (especially with tampons).
What to do: Change your pad every 4–6 hours, or your tampon every 4–8 hours.
6. ❌ Don’t Over-Exercise (or Under-Exercise)
Strenuous workouts can make cramps worse for some, while avoiding movement entirely can increase bloating and fatigue.
Tip: Try gentle movement like walking, yoga, or stretching.
7. ❌ Don’t Smoke
Nicotine can narrow blood vessels and worsen cramps. Long-term smoking is also linked to irregular cycles.
8. ❌ Don’t Ignore Your Mental Health
Hormonal shifts during your period can lead to irritability, low mood, or anxiety. Don’t beat yourself up for needing more rest or space.
Instead: Journal, take a bath, or just say no to non-essential tasks.
9. ❌ Don’t Forget to Hydrate
Being dehydrated can increase bloating and fatigue.
Reminder: Aim for 6–8 glasses of water a day, especially during your flow.
10. ❌ Don’t Rely Only on Painkillers
While ibuprofen can help with cramps, overuse can affect your gut and kidneys.
Alternative remedies: Heat pads, magnesium, ginger tea, or light massage.
11. ❌ Don’t Wear Tight Clothes
Snug waistbands can make bloating and cramping even more uncomfortable.
Instead: Go for high-waisted leggings or flowy loungewear.
12. ❌ Don’t Have Unprotected Sex
Yes, you can get pregnant on your period (it’s rare but possible), and your cervix is slightly more open, making infections more likely.
What to do: Use protection and stay clean before and after.
13. ❌ Don’t Use Scented Feminine Products
These can irritate your vulva and upset your pH balance, increasing risk of yeast or bacterial infections.
Stick to: Unscented pads, tampons, or reusable period care like menstrual cups or discs.
💡 Bonus Tip: Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself
You’re allowed to feel low-energy, snack more than usual, or cry over a cat video. Your hormones are working hard. Rest, nourish, and honor your body.
🌟 Summary: What to Avoid on Your Period
| DON’T DO THIS | WHY? |
|---|---|
| Skip meals | Blood sugar crashes, low energy |
| Drink excess caffeine | Increases cramps & anxiety |
| Eat salty/processed foods | Bloating & water retention |
| Use the same pad too long | Risk of infection & TSS |
| Smoke or stress | Worsens cramps & mood |
| Wear tight clothes | Makes bloating feel worse |
| Overuse pain meds | May hurt your gut/health |
| Use scented products | Irritates delicate skin |
Want more tips like these or product recommendations for a happier, healthier period?
Check out our Reusable Period Care Collection — free shipping included!