Living with periods

Diagram of menstrual cycle phases

What is the menstrual cycle?

Your menstrual (or period) cycle may sometimes be as unpredictable as the weather or it could follow a pretty regular pattern. Let’s take a better look at its different phases, so that you can be prepared for whatever your body may throw at you.
Illustration of a woman hugging a hot water bottle

What causes period pain and menstrual cramps?

We often ask the question – “why do periods hurt?” Here, we will talk about the causes and symptoms so you’re completely clued up on period pain.
Illustration of woman waiting for period

Signs of your period coming

There can be nothing more frustrating than waiting for your period to come. Predicting just when you’ll be reaching for a sanitary pad and some paracetamol can be tricky.
Person sitting on toilet holding a tampon, with bin ready to dispose of used tampon.

How to apply a tampon

It’s natural to feel a bit overwhelmed when you first try inserting a tampon, but like most things in life, it just takes a bit of practice. Trust us that after a few tries, you’ll be a tampon pro!

Is it possible to stop or delay your period?

Let’s face it, Mother Nature doesn’t always have the best timing. Whether you’re going on holiday, to the pool or just want to stop your flow for a night: sometimes the start of your cycle is bound to clash with an important event. And while there is no on/off button for our period, there are some ways that may help you to delay it.
Woman holding a grapefruit in front of her intimate area

Personal hygiene, periods and how to feel good

For many of us, living with periods may mean changing our routines according to our menstrual cycle. But does our monthly flow make personal hygiene even more important? Should we wash differently or more often? We’ve got you covered with all the answers!
Tally chart to track periods

How long can a period last?

2 day periods? 1 day periods? Or maybe even 2 periods in a month? Our menstrual cycles can surprise us and throw the unexpected our way. But just how long is a period supposed to last?
Woman meditating on yoga mat

How does stress affect periods?

Stress is something we all experience from time to time, and it can often have a negative impact on us both physically and mentally.
Woman swimming in a pool in swimming costume and goggles while she’s on her period.

Can you go swimming on your period?

Swimming on your period is totally doable. Yes, really. In fact, it’s a brilliant way to ease cramps and improve your mood. Here’s our poolside pointers for how to be confident swimming on your period – let’s dive in.
Woman practising yoga

What helps period pain?

Period pain isn’t ideal but there’s also a lot you can do to make it better. Let’s take a further look.
Girl in pink dress sat on the toilet having a period poop

What is period poop?

Have you ever noticed that there’s something different about your poop around your period? Well, you’re not alone.
Digital drawing of feet on a scale

Why do I bloat and gain weight during my cycle?

Do your jeans start to feel a bit tighter in the days leading up to your period? Many of us may notice a slight fluctuation in weight and bloating throughout our cycles – in fact, it’s very common.
Different methods of contraception

How does contraception affect your period?

Thinking of changing or starting a new method of contraception? Unsure how it will impact you? Here’s how it may affect your cycle and the way you experience your period.

The science behind exercising better on your period

There’s a lot of information out there about exercise and periods, including a fair share of menstrual myths.
Period tracker

Period trackers and what they teach us

Knowing where you’re at in your menstrual cycle and when to expect your next period gives you a sense of control over your life.
Woman lying in bed wearing a shirt and lace pants that show her liner on.

Is Brown Discharge Normal?

Although it may look daunting, brown vaginal discharge usually isn’t anything to worry about.
Image of a woman's jeans and underwear - Libresse

Is your period normal?

It’s common for women to worry that their periods aren’t normal – mainly because, when they first start, periods do take some getting used to.

Preventing night-time leaking

Waking up to discover blood on your sheets isn’t the best way to start the day.
Woman lying on her back doing yoga outside - Libresse

How PMS affects women

Getting moody before and during a period isn’t just ‘life angst’.

Can women exercise on their period?

While exercising during your period might be the very last thing you feel like doing, there are a stack of reasons why it’s a really good idea.
Illustration of a mother and daughter looking at each other - Libresse

Talking to your daughter about periods – is it time for a rethink?

If your daughter is approaching puberty, she is likely to be feeling anxious about starting her periods.

How can you reduce the craving for sugar when you have PMS?
Read Answer

Got a question about your period?
Go to Expert Advice