How to Take Care of Yourself When on Your Period

Published: 3 Jun 2025

Periods can be tiring, uncomfortable, and sometimes even painful. But with the right care, you can make your menstrual days easier and healthier. This article will guide you on how to take care of yourself when on your period using simple and natural ways. We’ll talk about hygiene, food, rest, and comfort — so you can feel fresh and confident every month. Whether it’s your first period or you’ve been dealing with them for years, these tips will help you stay calm, clean, and comfortable throughout your cycle.

Table of Content

Why Period Self-Care Is Important
Personal Hygiene During Your Period
1. What Should You Do?
What to Eat and Drink During Your Period
1. Best Foods and Drinks
Things to Avoid When on Your Period
1. Avoid These Things
How to Stay Fresh and Comfortable
1. Comfort Tips
2. Tips for Beginners
Common Period Myths vs. Truth
Conclusion

Why Period Self-Care Is Important

Taking care of yourself during menstruation isn’t just about staying clean — it affects your mood, health, and energy levels. Here’s why period self-care matters:

It prevents infections and rashes.
It helps you stay fresh all day.
It supports better mood and focus.
It reduces pain and discomfort.
It improves your mental and physical well-being.

Personal Hygiene During Your Period

Good hygiene is the first step in knowing how to take care of yourself when on your period. It helps you feel clean, smell fresh, and avoid any health problems.

What Should You Do?

Change your pad or tampon every 4–6 hours.
Always wash your hands before and after changing products.
Use warm water to clean your private area daily.
Wear breathable cotton underwear.
Avoid using scented soaps or sprays near your private parts.

What to Eat and Drink During Your Period

Your body needs extra care and the right nutrition to stay active and pain-free during your cycle. Eating healthy makes a big difference.

Best Foods and Drinks

Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
Eat leafy greens like spinach for iron.
Include fruits like bananas and oranges.
Snack on nuts and seeds for energy.
Avoid salty and fried food that can cause bloating.

Things to Avoid When on Your Period

Just like there are things you should do, there are also a few habits you should avoid during your period to stay healthy and comfortable.

Avoid These Things

Don’t skip meals, especially if you feel weak.
Avoid cold drinks if they increase cramps for you.
Don’t wear tight, non-breathable clothes.
Avoid too much caffeine — it can increase anxiety.
Don’t delay changing your pads or tampons.

How to Stay Fresh and Comfortable

Staying clean is only one part of how to take care of yourself when on your period — comfort is the other. A few simple habits can make your day much better.

Comfort Tips

Use a heating pad to ease cramps.
Take warm showers to relax your body.
Wear loose, soft clothes for comfort.
Sleep with a pillow under your knees to reduce back pain.
Use panty liners at the end of your period to stay dry.

Getting your first period can be confusing. But don’t worry — with the right steps, it becomes easy to handle.

Tips for Beginners

Track your period dates in a calendar or app.
Always carry an extra pad in your bag.
Talk to your mom, sister, or a trusted person if you’re unsure.
Stay calm — it’s a natural part of life.
Focus on hygiene, comfort, and rest.

Common Period Myths vs. Truth

There are many false beliefs about periods that can confuse young girls and even adults. Knowing the truth helps you take better care of yourself and feel confident.

Myth	Truth
You should not take a bath during your period.	You should take a bath daily. It keeps you clean, fresh, and helps reduce period cramps.
Exercising on your period is harmful.	Light exercises like walking or stretching can reduce cramps and improve mood.
You can’t get pregnant during your period.	It’s less likely, but pregnancy can still happen during menstruation.
All girls have the same period symptoms.	Everybody is different. Period flow, cramps, and mood changes vary from person to person.
Period blood is dirty or impure.	Period blood is not dirty. It’s a natural and healthy part of your body’s cycle.

Conclusion

Now you know exactly how to take care of yourself when on your period — from staying clean and eating well to resting and avoiding the wrong habits. Periods don’t have to feel like a burden. With a little care, you can feel fresh, strong, and in control. Just listen to your body and give it the love it deserves during this time of the month. Keep these tips in mind, and your period days will feel a lot easier and more comfortable.