There is no need to panic if you are travelling and seeing your period. This is very common. If your period is delayed and there is no chance of you being pregnant, there is nothing to worry about, it is just due to hormonal changes experienced while travelling. It is advisable to check with your doctor after you skip 2 of your cycles.
What are some tips for travelling during your period? These include:
1. Track your period
This is not just a tip for travelling but for life in general. You need to download apps like Flo, Period Calendar, Clue to track your period. You can check the app to plan ahead. The period tracking apps help in predicting your period cycle, it even gives you health insights and forums to discuss anonymously with others.
2. Birth control methods
There are several hormonal and non-hormonal birth control methods that can be used to either better plan and predict your period or even avoid them altogether. Avoiding your period is usually not recommended but in some cases like when you have to do something physically straining like hiking, walking, snorkeling, etc and if you have a lot of period-related cramps and pain, it is advisable to skip it for a month altogether.
3. Work out and eat well
Gynaecologists advise you to do light exercise during your period. Just a little bit of yoga or stretching can relieve cramps and period pain. Eating a diet that replenishes your body like leafy green vegetables, beans and nuts, which are rich in iron is generally considered good. Drink plenty of water and snack on fruits. But please avoid coffee and alcohol. It is commonly regarded that coffee tends to make cramps worse, make you dehydrated, and also give you digestive issues. Alcohol gives hangovers, which has several side effects.
4. Learn about different cultures and their attitudes towards the period
Some cultures frown at menstruation discussions. Many religious or cultural practices forbid menstruating women from practising in religious ceremonies. In South Asia and Southeast Asia, it is common for menstruating women to not be allowed inside a temple or kitchen.
5. Find out where to get menstruation product
Developed countries tend to have a wider selection of products such as tampons, pads, period panties, and cups. But in some areas in Africa and Asia, access to them, especially disposable products, is limited. Tampons, which are used the most in the West, are not available in many countries. If you do find tampons, there is a big chance that they will come without an applicator. In many countries, you will not find period products in supermarkets but in pharmacies. Informing yourself beforehand will make your life easier.
6. Plan your activities during your period
Prepare your itinerary in such a way that you can do something relaxing and less intense and taxing on those days. You may choose to go shopping. Or indulge and try different foods. Watch a show, a local show, or check out local channels.