Never Wonder Again! Essential Items to Bring to Work During Your Period

During menstruation, extra attention is often required for comfort and preparedness. Being ready for sudden physical changes and adapting to the shifts in daily habits that come with your period is essential. This article highlights items that can help you feel prepared and at ease at the workplace during your period.

Coping with Cramps and Mood Swings

Menstrual cramps, often beginning a day before your period and peaking on days two or three, are common. Hormonal fluctuations can also lead to mood swings and emotional sensitivity. For those who struggle with cramps or fluctuating moods, having the following items on hand can offer relief:

• Pain Relievers: Always keep pain relievers handy. Even if you feel fine in the morning, cramps can flare up unexpectedly during the day.
• Aromatherapy Oils: Quality essential oils can help reduce stress and have pain-relieving properties. Scents like lavender and bergamot are known to have calming effects.
• Warm Beverages: Not only do they improve circulation, but they also have a relaxing effect. Keep a personal thermos and tea bags at work for a warm drink anytime you need it.

Keeping Warm

During menstruation, the body’s temperature-regulating hormone, progesterone, decreases, making it easier to feel cold. Coldness can worsen cramps and PMS symptoms, so keep the following items at work to help stay warm:

• Heat Packs and Lap Blankets: Warming your abdominal area with a heat pack or lap blanket promotes circulation and relaxation, easing cramps and discomfort.
• Thermal Clothing: Opt for layers that keep you warm, especially if you have a desk job that can lead to cold legs and feet. Wear insulating base layers under your clothes, and drink warm beverages instead of cold or caffeinated ones, which can increase chill.

Difficulty Accessing the Restroom Frequently

Accessing the restroom can be tricky when desks are far away, meetings run long, or busy schedules make frequent bathroom trips challenging. On days with heavy flow, here are some helpful items for those moments when getting to the restroom is less feasible:

Discreetly Carrying Menstrual Products

While menstruation is natural, you may still prefer a subtle way to carry your supplies to the restroom.

• Zippered Handkerchiefs: These are perfect for concealing pads or extra underwear, looking like a regular handkerchief rather than a pad carrier.
• Large Cosmetic Pouches: A spacious pouch that doubles as a makeup bag can discreetly hold even large-sized pads. It may appear like you’re simply touching up makeup.

In reality, people don’t often notice what you carry to the restroom, especially men, who are generally less attentive to such details. Still, if carrying a pad feels awkward, using a pouch on non-period days as well can make it feel more natural.

Odor Control

Despite good hygiene, menstrual odor can be challenging. Extended periods without changing a pad can increase odors, so try to change pads more frequently if possible. If you have easy restroom access, consider using smaller pads and changing them often rather than relying on larger ones.

• Feminine Care Wipes: These wipes are great for a quick refresh, helping you feel clean and comfortable throughout the day.

Summary

With just a few added essentials, you can make your time at work more comfortable and manageable during your period. Give these tips a try and see how they enhance your daily comfort!