Most women feel uncomfortable during their period, which is not surprising considering the many changes happening inside their bodies. They might feel lethargic and depressed or experience unpleasant breakouts and painful cramps. Given these unpleasant emotional and physical experiences, many find that time of the month inconvenient. Some may even opt to cancel plans and simply stay at home when they have their period.
As a woman, you probably understand why it makes sense to politely decline an invitation and set your meeting for another time. But, what if you get your menses on your wedding day? Such a special event requires a lot of planning and setup, so it’s not an occasion that you can easily reschedule. Also, while dealing with your period on your big day is not an ideal scenario, you cannot let this natural process affect your excitement and joy.
Perhaps you are a bride-to-be and worried about getting your monthly period on your big day. If so, read on. This piece will offer several tips to help you navigate this situation effortlessly while keeping your dress pristine and stain-free. And in case you suffer from period cramps, we will also enumerate a couple of ways to ease your discomfort. After all, you deserve to enjoy your special day to the fullest.
6 Helpful Tips to Manage Your Period on Your Wedding Day
You may have control over your wedding date, but you cannot always accurately predict when your menstrual cycle will start. If your period makes a surprise appearance before you walk down the aisle, do not panic. Here are several tips that can help you focus on your day without being bothered by the sudden visit of Aunt Flo.
Anticipate the Problem
If you are unsure of when you’ll get your period, act as though it was sure to happen during your nuptials. That way, you can prepare accordingly and not leave anything to chance. For starters, you may want to bring period essentials with you as you dress for the wedding and pack for your honeymoon. Sanitary pads, tampons, period panties, and feminine wipes are some items you may find helpful. Keep them close at hand at all times, or entrust one of your bridesmaids to carry these essentials in her purse. Don’t forget to include some paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve pain, especially if you are prone to menstrual cramps.
Make Sure You’re Protected
Whether you are using a feminine pad, tampon, or menstrual cup, there is always a possibility of leakage, especially during your heavy flow days. So, you may want to add another layer of protection to avoid having period stains ruin your gorgeous wedding dress. For instance, instead of merely wearing ordinary underwear, you can use a period panty in addition to wearing tampons or napkins. This extra layer will keep accidental blood leaks away from your skin and outfit.
Manage Period Bloating
Due to hormonal changes, bloating often occurs before and during a period. And this is something you do not want to experience, especially on your wedding day. The last thing you want is to have a noticeable tummy or to look heavy in front of the cameras. Fortunately, there are a couple of ways to manage period bloating.
For one, you can limit your salt intake in the days leading up to your wedding. Avoid processed food and fill up on fruits, vegetables, and other fiber-rich foods. Secondly, drink lots of water to aid digestion and blood circulation. Perhaps you can even ask your maid of honor to bring a water bottle for you in case you get thirsty during the ceremony.
Lastly, you may also want to wear control top tights to help smoothen your slightly bloated tummy and hips. Because this garment is made of light fabrics, you can create a more attractive silhouette without the discomfort of wearing regular shapewear. Try asking your trusted friends where to look for the best control top tights so you can purchase a pair or two for your big day.
Get Help
Your family, bridesmaids, and other members of your wedding party are your support system. Tell them your predicament so they can assist you. From stashing your feminine products in their purse to keeping an eye on your wedding dress for stains, your tribe can help relieve your anxiety and stress. You may also want to assign somebody to go with you to the bathroom to hold your dress or lend an extra hand during emergencies.
Learn How to Deal with Period Stains
Even if you’ve taken every precaution to avoid period leaks, it does not hurt to prepare for the worst. Even the smallest stain will stand out in a white dress and can make you feel upset and self-conscious. Do not let a small red spot ruin your special day by adding an effective stain-removing product to your bridal emergency—hydrogen peroxide. Yes, that bottle in your first-aid cabinet can be a lifesaver during red days.
All you need to do is dab a cotton ball soaked with hydrogen peroxide directly onto the problem area, and the blood stain will instantly disappear. Or you may want to transfer a small amount of the antiseptic to a separate container with a spray nozzle. This way, you can easily spray the liquid on the stain and fix the problem fast. Hydrogen peroxide is milder than chlorine bleach and safe to use on all washable fabrics so you don’t have to worry about it ruining your dress.
Decide to Be Happy No Matter What
Although getting your period on your big day can be challenging, try not to let it ruin your day. Make a decision at the onset that you will enjoy the occasion no matter what happens. It may also help to remember that you have successfully dealt with menstrual periods in the past, so why would you stress about it now? When you have this mindset, it’s easier to focus on what truly matters—your soon-to-be spouse and celebrating the love you have for each other.
Different Ways to Deal With Period Cramps
According to one study published in the Journal of Pain Research, menstrual pain is a common issue that affects close to 85 percent of women. If you are one of the many who experience this discomfort during your menstrual cycle, you may need to plan ahead to ensure that your special day will not suffer because of this. To help you manage period cramps, consider the following pointers:
- Drink warm water to increase blood circulation throughout the body and reduce uterine contractions, which cause cramps. Try herbal teas, such as chamomile and peppermint, to alleviate the pain as well.
- Give your abdomen a gentle massage using essential oils that work to relax the muscles. Lavender, rose, cinnamon, and sage are popular options and they can make you smell good, too.
- If you have the time to do so, soak in a hot bath for at least 15 minutes before getting ready to relieve muscle tension.
- Consider taking a walk, jogging in place, or doing other physical activities for half an hour after waking up to promote better blood circulation and the release of mood-boosting endorphins.
- Because lack of sleep increases the severity of period cramps, make sure to get sufficient sleep, especially the night before your wedding day.
- For severe menstrual pain, take pain relievers like aspirin and ibuprofen.
Having your period during your special day can be inconvenient and stressful. But remember that this natural process doesn’t need to diminish the joy and excitement of the occasion. With enough preparation, assistance from your wedding team, and a positive attitude, you can deal with red days effortlessly.