28 days is all you need to expect Aunt Flo’s visit, but there are times when it could come unexpectedly. Some women have experienced getting their period suddenly, but what can you do about it? Instead of pointing fingers at your lower abdominal area and telling it how much you hate its indecisiveness, here are six great ways to get prepare yourself for an unexpected menstruation.
1. Count the days
Whether your period comes exactly whenever you expect, it’s always a good idea to keep track of your days in a calendar. Go old-school with a classic calendar on the wall, or download the WomanLog Calendar app for your smartphone! The app is a calendar that helps you track your entire cycle; from yourperiod, up to your ovulation and fertility forecast. The WomanLog Calendar app is free for both Android and iPhone devices.
2. Carry a spare
If you’re one to constantly switch your handbags, be smart and equip all your bags with a little pouch full of panty liners, tampons or pads! No matter what the size of your bag, you know you can always fit a spare protective sheet in there.
3. Be aware of your body
Some women are able to tell if their period’s coming just by taking note of their bodies. Just before your period starts, you’re bound to feel some changes in your body – breast tenderness, fatigue, weight gain, or even emotional changes like stress, anxiety, or even a bigger sexual appetite. Take note of all these changes and write them down, or even refer them to the WomanLog Calendar app.
4. Tell a reliable friend
When it’s too late and you can already feel blood trickling down your thighs – don’t panic! Clean yourself up, and tell a trusted friend what’s happening. A real friend will help sort you out with a spare tampon or a scarf to help hide the stain. We can’t begin to express how important it is to stay calm. If you’re afraid about being embarrassed, throwing a fit will only tell the world just what you’re going through.
5. Keep a comfort kit ready at all times
During flights, airlines present guests with comfort kits filled with basic travel essentials to make their flight more comfortable. You can also do the same thing with your period! Grab an empty pouch or bag, and fill it with things that help you feel comfortable during your cycle. It can include chocolates, a few painkillers, a hot water bottle, or even some bags of calming. You can put anything in your Aunt Flo comfort kit!
6. Be optimistic
We understand the fragile state you must be in when your period hits and you feel like everything you’ve planned has just gone down the drain! The only easy way to get through it is to be optimistic. Avoid using catastropic words like “horrible” or “awful” to describe your experience. As much of an inconvenience your period may be, always remember that it’s a sign of health. Your period indicates that your reproductive system is still functioning without any problems (or that your pregnancy scare was just an over-reaction). Just love your period – it’s your body after all!
Do note, however, than if your unexpected period is heavier than usual, or if this happens quite often, you should definitely make an appointment to see your gynecologist.