13 Things You Shouldn’t Do On Your Period (If You Want To Keep Your Sanity)
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Ah, periods. That time of the month when you want to punch everyone and cry at the same time. One second you’re craving chocolate, the next you’re questioning every life decision since 2008.
And while we all talk about what we should do during our periods (hydrate, rest, exercise gently, yada yada), let’s flip the script a little and talk about what you absolutely shouldn’t do. Like, at all.
Whether you’re curled up with cramps or faking your way through a Zoom meeting with a heating pad on your lap (been there), here are 13 things you might want to avoid during your menstrual days — for the sake of your body, your mood, and your sanity.
1. 🚫 Don’t Skip Meals
I get it. You’re bloated, uncomfortable, and your stomach feels like it’s hosting a WWE match.
But skipping meals is a huge no-no. Your blood sugar can plummet, making you feel dizzy, cranky, and more prone to cramps.
👉 Instead, opt for small, nutritious meals. Think whole grains, greens, nuts, and lean proteins.
Pro Tip: Try sipping on raspberry leaf tea — known for helping with menstrual cramps and uterine health.
💬 “Your body is losing blood and nutrients. The least you can do is feed it like it deserves a Michelin star.”
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2. 🚫 Don’t Binge on Junk Food (Even if Your Soul Wants It)
We all love a good Netflix-binge-and-chips combo, but processed and salty foods can worsen bloating and make you feel like a balloon floating over Times Square.
That includes chips, instant noodles, and anything that crackles when you open it.
🍫 Craving chocolate? Go for dark chocolate instead. It’s rich in magnesium and might help ease cramps and lift your mood.
Dark Chocolate with 70% Cocoa – Shop Here
3. 🚫 Don’t Ignore Your Flow
Real talk: if your period is unusually heavy, accompanied by giant clots, or lasting more than 7 days — that’s not something to shrug off.
Please don’t convince yourself “this is normal” when your tampon gives up faster than your ex during an argument.
👉 Track your cycle and talk to a healthcare provider if anything feels off.
Best Period Tracker Apps?
- Flo
- Clue
- Period Calendar
4. 🚫 Don’t Go Bra-less if You’re Super Tender
Your boobs may feel like painful bags of rocks. And while letting them “breathe” sounds cool in theory, it might not be the best idea if you’re in pain.
Wear a comfy, wireless, supportive bra instead.
Check Out This Soft Cotton Wireless Bra on Amazon – Trust me, your chest will thank you.
5. 🚫 Don’t Overdo Caffeine
Love your coffee? Same. But on your period, too much caffeine = bad news.
Caffeine can constrict blood vessels and worsen cramps, not to mention make your anxiety spiral if you’re already feeling fragile.
Try switching to herbal teas (hello chamomile, peppermint, and ginger).
Ginger Tea Pack – Cramps Bestie →
6. 🚫 Don’t Forget to Hydrate
Hydration isn’t just for skinfluencers and fitness buffs.
On your period, drinking enough water can reduce bloating, help relieve cramps, and improve your mood.
Add cucumber or mint if plain water bores you. Be extra and use a cute water bottle.
💬 “Drink water like you drink gossip – regularly and enthusiastically.”
Cute Water Bottles That Make You Actually Want to Hydrate →
7. 🚫 Don’t Do Intense Workouts
This isn’t the time to PR your deadlifts or join that bootcamp challenge.
Your body is shedding a lining, for crying out loud. Be kind.
Gentle stretching, yoga, or a casual walk is chef’s kiss during this time.
Period Yoga Pants – Comfy, High-Waist, and Cute
8. 🚫 Don’t Pop Painkillers Without Food
NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help cramps but they’re not candy.
Always eat something before taking them, or risk an upset stomach or worse.
If cramps are a regular demon in your life, consider stocking up on:
🌀 Heating pads
🌿 Magnesium supplements
🌼 Essential oils (Lavender, Peppermint)
Buy a Period Heating Pad on Amazon – Life-Changer
Save This Pin 💁♀️
9. 🚫 Don’t Wear Tight Jeans or Shapewear
Sis, why are you torturing yourself with skinny jeans when your uterus is trying to kill you?
Ditch anything tight or clingy and go for soft, breathable cotton clothes.
Trust me, your lower belly needs room to bloat in peace.
Flowy Period-Friendly Lounge Pants Here
10. 🚫 Don’t Keep the Same Pad or Tampon for Too Long
We’re not doing that. No ma’am.
Leaving a pad or tampon in for too long can lead to irritation, odor, or worse — Toxic Shock Syndrome (yes, it’s real).
🩸 Change tampons every 4–6 hours and pads every 3–4 hours.
Also, consider trying period panties or menstrual cups for comfort and sustainability.
Best-Rated Period Panties on Amazon →
Menstrual Cup Starter Kit – Affordable & Eco-Friendly
11. 🚫 Don’t Self-Hate Your Body
Your body is literally regenerating life.
You’re going through a complex hormonal rollercoaster, and if you’ve gained a pound or two or feel less-than-perfect, please remind yourself:
You. Are. Not. Defined. By. Your. Bloat.
💬 “You’re not ‘ugly’ – you’re ovulating, menstruating, or both. Give yourself a break.”
Write in your journal. Watch a rom-com. Hug your cat. Be soft with yourself.
12. 🚫 Don’t Sleep Without Protection (Even on Light Days)
Period sneak attacks are real.
Even if you think you’re almost done, that 3am surprise can ruin your sheets, your mood, and your sleep.
✅ Wear overnight pads, double up with a liner, or place a dark towel under you.
Overnight Pads that Actually Work – See Top Picks
13. 🚫 Don’t Keep It All Inside
Your emotions are valid. If you feel weepy, irritated, or overwhelmed — speak up.
Talk to your bestie. Write a voice note. Cry in the shower. Scream into a pillow. Whatever works.
Don’t bottle up your pain or pretend you’re fine when you’re not.
💬 “Crying during your period is not weakness. It’s emotional spring cleaning.”
Final Thoughts: Be Your Own BFF
Your period isn’t something to hate — it’s your body communicating, working, shedding, resetting.
So don’t work against it. Flow with it. (Pun intended.)
Avoid the things above. Eat well. Move gently. Drink water. Let yourself rest. And most importantly, treat yourself with the kind of softness you’d show a friend going through it.
💡 Got any other period don’ts you swear by? Drop them in the comments or DM me on Pinterest @SerenityTalks. We’re in this cycle together, boo!
