Not every person likes travelling during periods. Some people just like to curl up in bed or slow down the pace of life for those few days in the month. But if you are one of those who don’t let your menstrual cycle dictate your travel plans, here are some tips to make your journey and trip free of worry.

Does travelling affect menstruation?

Some people believe that flying affects periods. But the truth is that it does not have any direct effect on periods. However, any form of physical or mental stress to the body could cause temporary hormonal changes, says Dr Tanvi Desai Wadia, a gynaecologist. Also, going to a different city or country involving a change in food habits, sleep cycle and physical activity can cause a temporary change in regularity of your menstrual cycle. These factors can influence hormonal balance, so you may experience irregular periods or missed periods.

How to make travelling during periods easy?

It is safe to travel during your periods. However, you must be equipped with the essentials needed during days of bleeding. Here are some tips:

1. Maintain a handy record of regularity of your cycle

The record should include days of bleeding and days of heavy flow. This way your period can be anticipated prior to your travel plans as far as possible. Also, if you are prone to nausea or headache during your period, account for those while planning your day or schedule.

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2. Keep extra menstrual products

Periods don’t always arrive on the day you expect them to, but you can anticipate. So, carry extra sanitary pads, tampons or other menstrual products. They can be easily kept in your purse. You could also carry period pain relief products to manage the cramps!

3. Carry extra clothes

Even if you are travelling just for two days, carry an extra pair of clothes or underwear. They can be used in case you end up staining your clothes.

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4. Medicines

Keep prescribed antispasmodic medications or painkillers handy, suggests Dr Wadia. This way you don’t have to suffer severe period cramps during travel.

5. Stay hydrated

Hydrate adequately, so carry water bottles or buy one. It is essential because it helps with alleviating period cramps.

6. Use the washroom whenever you can

Use the washroom preemptively when you have access to one instead of waiting till you have to go searching for one when you need it. Try to change your pads frequently to avoid period leaks.

7. Ask for help

Don’t shy away from asking for help or rest from other travel members. It’s amazing how helpful travel companions can be.

8. Don’t fear your period

You should not be afraid of your period. Try and treat it as any other day of the month and half your battle is won!

9. Eat healthy

You might feel like eating chips and all kinds of mouth-watering junk food, but consuming them a lot may lead to bloating and cramps. This will make your trip an uncomfortable one. Eat fruits and nuts as snacks if you feel like munching something while travelling.

10. Take comfortable clothes

Most of the days you might be wearing a tight pair of jeans and fitted tops. But if you are travelling during periods, you don’t want to juggle between bloating and uncomfortable clothes.

While travelling can be comfortable, long periods of walking or physical strenuous activity must be avoided on days of heavy bleeding due to increased fatigability. Most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy your trip!