INTRODUCTION

During the menstrual cycle, the body, mood and energy level of girls change a lot. During this time your body goes through hormonal fluctuations, which affect both your physical and emotional health. In such a situation, if you follow some wrong habits, then periods become even more uncomfortable.

The things we do – or don’t do – at such a time directly affect our health.

That’s why, if you want your menstrual cycle to be a little smooth and manageable, it is important to avoid some basic mistakes.

Many times we do things without thinking that put more stress on our body and increase the symptoms of periods.

In this article, we will talk about 5 important things you should avoid during periods, which every girl should know. Whether your flow is light or heavy, these tips will be useful for both your health and comfort.

So, if you want to make your period days a little more easy and stress-free, then this article is for you

5 IMPORTANT THINGS YOU SHOULD AVOID DURING PERIODS

During periods our body is sensitive – physically, emotionally and even on a hormonal level. Some small habits done by mistake can make your menstrual cycle even more uncomfortable. That is why every girl should know 5 important things you should avoid during periods.

Here is their complete list:

1. Skipping Meals or Eating Junk Food

It is very important to have proper nutrition during periods. But many people either skip meals or eat only junk food – which makes your menstrual cycle even more uncomfortable. Junk food increases bloating, acidity and mood swings, while having an empty stomach increases fatigue and weakness.

Why avoid:

Inflammatory foods increase cramps
Sugar and caffeine can cause mood swings and anxiety
Skipping meals increases fatigue and dizziness

What to do instead:

Fruits, dry fruits, warm soups, coconut water
Small, frequent meals
Warm water to aid digestion

2. Overexercising or No Movement at All

Some movement during the menstrual cycle is helpful, but overexercising or complete rest are both wrong. If you do an intense workout, cramps and fatigue can increase. However, staying in bed all day slows blood circulation and causes bloating, laziness and low mood.

Why avoid:

High intensity workouts = hormonal imbalance
No movement = sluggish digestion + increased bloating

What to do instead:

Light walk (15–20 min)
Gentle yoga poses (Child’s pose, Cat-Cow)
Deep breathing and stretching

3. Poor Hygiene Practices

Maintaining hygiene during periods is important not just for comfort but also for the overall health of your menstrual cycle. Not changing clothes for 6-8 hours or wearing dirty undergarments can cause infection and rashes.

Why avoid:

Wet pad for long = bacterial growth
Leads to rashes, foul smell & even UTIs
This habit affects long-term vaginal health.

5 important things you should avoid during periods

What to do instead:

Change the pad or tampon every 4–6 hours
Clean underarms & private area gently with warm water.
Always wash hands before & after changing pads

4. Ignoring Pain & Discomfort

Every girl’s period symptoms are different, but if the pain is too intense or there is heavy bleeding, ignoring it could be risky for your menstrual cycle. Many times these signs are a signal of a medical issue such as PCOS, endometriosis, or hormonal imbalance.

Why avoid:

Delay in diagnosis leads to long-term issues
Ignoring symptoms = worsening of hidden problems
Taking pain relievers without consultation can be harmful.

What to do instead:

By using heat pad
Stay hydrated, rest.
If you have severe pain then consult a doctor.

5. Emotional Neglect & Overthinking

During periods, your emotional health is as important as your physical health. Hormonal shifts during the menstrual cycle can cause mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or sadness. But if you ignore your emotions or overthink too much, it can affect your mental health as well.

Why avoid:

Overthinking = more stress = worse cramps
emotional burnout
Mental health is also important along with physical

What to do instead:

Try light music, journaling, meditation
Talk to a friend or therapist if needed

Things You Can Do Instead (Healthy Habits)

Here are some healthy habits that can make your period days comfortable and balanced — for your body and your mood.

1. Eat Warm & Nutritious Foods

Soups, lentils, cooked vegetables, fruits, and dry fruits will give you energy and reduce bloating. Instead of junk food, these options make your menstrual cycle smooth.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drink more water, herbal tea, coconut water or warm water. This relaxes cramps and improves digestion — especially during your menstrual cycle.

3. Try Gentle Exercises

Walking, light stretching or yoga improves your blood flow and also improves mood. Instead of heavy workouts, these options are safe during your menstrual cycle.

4. Maintain Hygiene

Change pad/tampon every 4–6 hours. Wearing cotton underwear and keeping your private area clean avoids infection risk. Cleanliness = comfortable menstrual cycle.

5. Rest But Don’t Be Inactive

It is important to take some rest, but staying in bed all day is also not good. Staying active also improves your mood and body flow.

6. Practice Self-Care

It is also important to think a little about yourself during periods. Meditation, journaling, a little music or aromatherapy mentally relaxes you – especially when your menstrual cycle is causing more stress.

CONCLUSION

Taking a little extra care during your periods is very important for your overall health. Sometimes we make small mistakes that worsen cramps, bloating, mood swings and fatigue.

That is why it is important to understand 5 important things you should avoid during periods — like eating junk food, over-exercising, ignoring hygiene, taking severe pain lightly, and not doing emotional self-care.

Only when you begin to understand each phase of your menstrual cycle and set your routine accordingly, your period experience can become more comfortable.

With a little awareness, a little patience and by following the right habits, you can make your monthly cycle easier – without unnecessary stress.

Remember, self-care is not a luxury, it is a necessary during periods. Listen to your body, and treat it the same way you would treat a close friend.

FAQs

1. Is it okay to exercise during menstrual cycle?

Yes, but do light exercise – like yoga or walking. Overtraining can make the menstrual cycle more uncomfortable.

2. How long can one wear pad during periods?

Max 6 hours. It is important to maintain hygiene, else the risk of infection increases during your menstrual cycle.

3. What should be avoided during periods?

Junk food, heavy exercise, poor hygiene, ignoring pain, and emotional stress.

Menstrual Cycle Care: 5 Important Things You Should Avoid During Periods

INTRODUCTION