Menstruation is still a subject less talked about, in every section of society. Periods have long been associated with dirt, disgust, shame and some might even say fear. The social stigma and age old unfounded myths attached to it can affect detrimentally both physically and psychologically for young girl transitioning into womanhood. Even today in some communities, women are banished during their period because of so called “impurity” during menstruation, despite the ancient practice being outlawed. Period Talk in India a big deal, let’s put to normalise conversations
It is unfortunate that, Menstruation is overwhelmingly considered women’s secret business. Young girls are taught from a young age, they have to be discreet about it. This has resulted in negligible discussion on the subject in families leading to minimum information sharing towards the need of menstrual hygiene system in vast sections of the society. A large number of adolescent girls and women particularly in rural India are still weighed down by unfounded taboos that surround menarche and the subsequent management of menstruation cycle.
Let’s face it, few women look forward to getting their period. Yet for many women, the period of time before menstruation begins can be even worse. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) triggers undeniable emotional and physical changes in four out of five women who get periods. Nearly one in five suffers symptoms serious enough to interfere with work, school or relationships.
In the days leading up to your period, estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, and serotonin levels rise or fall in harmony. These hormonal adjustments trigger other changes: mood fluctuations, abdominal bloating, irritability, lethargy, food cravings, and headaches. Symptoms are especially severe – even disabling – for three to eight percent of women who suffer from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Prepare for PMS by Planning Ahead
Although the hormonal changes leading to PMS and PMDD occur each menstrual cycle, you can make the days before your period go more smoothly when you take these steps:
Keep a calendar or download a period tracker app: Each day track where you are in your cycle and how you’re feeling. Becoming more aware of your body’s monthly rhythms can help you plan ahead. You may find it’s best to avoid stressful situations two to three days before your period and schedule a massage instead.
Avoiding pain with Navjiwan Ayurvedic: We at Navjiwan Ayurvedic, care about your well being. Understanding the pain and restlessness felt during these days of flow, we have procured an ayurvedic treatment that curbs pain and allows you women to roam as if you’re ache-free. Our bottle of Istriratan contains a decoction of many valuable herbs and roots like ashoka bark, ashwagandha, bal chad, nilopher, lodh, jia potta, satavar etc. It is a unique remedy for leucorhoea, backache, anaemia and other women diseases.
Also Navjiwan Suparipak helps in period cramps , leucorhoea and post delivery issues
Address unresolved emotional issues: This window of time each month gives many women the strength to voice deeper feelings and seek help. Don’t be afraid to make an appointment with a therapist or find out about cognitive behavioral therapy.
Get exercise: Taking a walk or working in the yard is a great way to increase a happiness molecule called serotonin. Getting outside in the sun and fresh air helps increase serotonin as well.
Decrease stress: Yoga, especially the “warrior goddess” and “sun salutation” poses, has been found to lower cortisol (a stress hormone) levels. Other stress busters: meditation, alternate nostril breathing, progressive muscle relaxation and getting a good night’s sleep.
Eat well: PMS can cause food cravings. High protein foods such as eggs, chicken, fish, nuts, and seeds can help decrease these urges. Craving carbohydrates? Reach for complex carbs: whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Chocolate obsession? Stick with at least 70 percent dark chocolate – it contains magnesium and is lower in fats and sugars than regular chocolate.
Talk with your doctor: Some women find birth control or other hormone medications help them find balance. Anti-depressant medications – especially SSRIs (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors) – have been found to help stabilize mood during the PMS or PMDD time.
When you pay attention to your monthly rhythm and make the most of each day, premenstrual syndrome does not have to be unbearable … for you or those you love. That’s why it’s time to talk, and it’s time to act. Period
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