Periods suck- absolutely, without a doubt, no questions asked, suck.
I started my period when I was 8 years old, so I’ve had many years of knowing just how much periods suck.
I also have endometriosis, pelvic floor dysfunction, and vulvodynia. I’ve spent a lot of my time trying to figure out how to manage my pelvic pain.
While these conditions are not a result of my menstrual cycle, they are however provoked by it. My diagnosis’ cause chronic pain; some days I feel like I could go for a 2-mile hike when other days taking my dog out to use the bathroom is a struggle.
Throughout the years I’ve tried different ways to alleviate my pain, and while some of them have not worked, others now serve in my ‘how to alleviate pelvic pain’ toolbox. After personal trial and error, here are the top 5 products or treatments that continue to give me relief from my menstrual cycle, and pelvic pain overall.
Please be aware that I am not a medical professional and that you should consult with your doctor regarding any questions and recommendations specifically applicable to your treatment and healing.
Cora Pads
There are many options on what menstrual hygiene products to use; from disposable pads, washable pads, menstrual cups, tampons, menstrual disks, and absorbent underwear- there is no wrong way to go. Many will experience heightened sensitivity on or around their vulva during their menstrual cycle which can cause uncomfortably using certain products. Because of this I highly recommend finding a product that is least irritating to you. My number one tip though is to STAY AWAY FROM FRAGRANCES.
For me, I find Cora pads to be my favorite. They are made with hypoallergenic and dermatology-tested ingredients and do not contain chlorine, dyes, or any fragrances. Additionally, I find them to stick properly to my underwear and not move. Not only are their pads the least irritating to me, but they are also socially and environmentally conscious.
I can't emphasize enough, to use whatever product works for you; if you’re 23 like me, and still use pads, that's more than okay. There should not be a moral ground associated with using the products that make you most comfortable during your cycle.
2. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit (TENS)
The first time I heard of a TENS unit was the first time I ever met with my Pelvic Floor therapist. Once I learned how to properly use the TENS unit, it became part of my pain day toolbox.
A TENS unit is a device I recommend only using after consultation with your doctor. People will use the TENS unit to help relieve pain associated with one's period, joint pain, back pain, and various illnesses such as endometriosis, fibromyalgia, and arthritis.
Essentially you place the electrodes on the area on your body where you seek relief. For me, it is often above each ovary, lower back, and on my hips. Afterward, you control the intensity of the pulses through various frequencies; the TENS unit frequency refers to “the number of electrical pulses per second.” In my experience, using the TENS unit is a non-invasive way to alleviate the pain that in turn helps me reduce my medication intake.
While there is a lack of research, I know many people who have found relief after utilizing the TENS unit, even for a short time.
The tens unit I use is hyperlinked and was the one used by my PT.
3. PMS Be Gone Tea
PMS Be Gone Tea is a product I tried during one of my cycles, just to see what else could potentially help. I’ve never been much of a tea drinker but I heard that raspberry leaf tea, including tannins and fragarine help, relieve uterine contractions. At times I get pretty desperate for pain relief, so I set out on a mission to find a tea that might help my pain. I scrolled on the internet where I found this brand of tea that not only had raspberry leaf but turmeric, lemon balm, dandelion, lavender, rose hip, and more. I decided to try this tea, and while it doesn’t take away my pain completely, it helps enough that I keep buying it. It also tastes really good! This tea also claims to help with acne, mood, and skin darkness, but I predominately noticed feeling less bloated and less severe cramps. I drink this tea as directed, brewed with 8 oz of hot water; I also will let the tea cool and add a few splashes of limeade and ice to make a more refreshing drink. I purchase the tea on amazon but you can also buy it directly from their website.
4. Kinesiology Tape (KT Tape)
Have you ever seen large pieces of stretchy tape on athletes or dancers? That’s what Kinesiology Tape is. With its medical grade stretchy adhesiveness, when applied to your skin will “recoil(s) slightly, gently lifting your skin. It is believed that this helps create microscopic space between your skin and the tissues underneath it.” While there isn’t an abundance of research, it is believed to help change receptors in your nervous system which helps your brain perceive pain and pressure differently. Additionally, the use of KT allows for improved blood circulation. When applied to your lower abdomen in a “t” formation, there may be some pain relief in your lower back. For me, it helps! When I wear the KT as described it feels as if some of the tension in my pelvis is released. My only complaint about this pain relief method is that I have sensitive skin, so removing the tape sometimes results in irritation. I wear my blue KT each day of my cycle; even though it doesn’t take all of my pain away, it’s a necessity for me and gives me an extra feeling of support.
5. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
To say that PFPT (pelvic floor physical therapy) changed my life is a gross understatement. PT allowed me to reclaim my body in a way I didn’t even know was possible. In your sessions, you will learn ways to stabilize your core and strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. Seeing my PT for even just a few sessions taught me a lot about my anatomy, and how strengthening my pelvic floor didn’t necessarily mean tightening it. During my first session, I learned how some of my pain was a result of irritation to my pudendal nerve and that I was holding myself and my pelvis in a way that was putting active strain on the surrounding nerves and pelvic muscles.
Through a variety of learned exercises, biofeedback, dilator usage, and massage, I was slowly learning how to manage my pain. Anyone who has pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, pain with defecating or urinating, or incontinence would 100% benefit from pelvic floor therapy.
While I do not currently see a PT, the lessons and skills I learn are ones that I still use today.
For more information on the impacts of PFPT, I recommend this article; each time I read it I cry because it encapsulates exactly how I feel. I also really enjoy content from @the pelvic dance floor.
While none of these products or treatments are a fool-proof way of dealing with painful pelvic conditions, they allow me to get to a point where I can manage my day-to-day life. Reading back on this article, I feel an overwhelming amount of pride. My experience with chronic pain is an ongoing journey, but I am proud that my resilience has allowed me to advocate for my needs and help me create a toolkit to help me and others. If you experience extreme menstrual pain, please reach out to your doctor. You do not need to suffer without answers.
Statements made within this post are from my own experience and willingness to share about the products.
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