We really don’t look forward to the monthly flow, but keeping track of the menstrual cycle can help manage periods and the PMS symptoms better. Really, it’s possible. Technology can indeed be used to empower ourselves and make things simpler and smooth. So get a period tracker app now and see for yourself how it can make a world of difference to your monthly cycle.
Understanding the cycle better
Some girls have a precise cycle, ranging from anywhere between 21-40 days. But for many, it isn’t so. Tracking your periods helps to understand your cycle better. Once you recognize the pattern, you are better equipped to manage it. This way, your periods don’t catch you off guard. Sometimes, an irregular cycle might indicate a problem, and once recognized, you can visit the gynecologist to treat it on time. Also, keeping track of the flow, i.e., noticing which days you have a heavy flow and when its light helps to plan for things in advance. Keeping it comfortable on the heavy days, so you don’t end up irritable and exhausted always helps. So keep a record of your periods and take charge of your wellness and health.
Managing PMS symptoms
By tracking your cycle and PMS symptoms, you get a clear idea as to how you feel a week or two before and during the period days. When you know the common symptoms, you can take steps to prevent their occurrence repeatedly. Most of these symptoms can be easily managed by making simple lifestyle changes, like in diet, activity, and sleep. So for example, if you feel bloated before periods, simply start making changes in your diet a week before your monthly date. Avoiding dairy, spicy foods, caffeine, processed foods, etc. will help curb bloating. Have frequent, small, and home cooked meals and also stay regular with exercise. To help reduce PMS symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, depression, and menstrual pain start taking calcium a few days before the periods and continue throughout. Identifying your PMS symptoms will enable you to manage them effectively.
Plan your social calendar
A period calendar can help you track your moods and emotions during different phases of the cycle. A week after your periods, as the estrogen levels rise and are at its peak, you feel great and at the top of your game. So plan your big work meetings and social events during this phase when you are feeling energetic and social. This is the time to go out and party. However, a week before the periods as the hormones begin to fall, you want to shut yourself out from the world and its time to spend some time alone. Use this time to introspect. Our hormones do affect our moods and emotions, so plan your social calendar accordingly.
Planning to conceive
Whether you are planning to conceive or not, tracking the menstrual cycle can be of immense help. Ovulation is the time when you are most fertile and can easily get pregnant. This is roughly 12th to 16th day from the first day of your period. If you are planning to get pregnant, this is the time to try and conceive. And if you want to avoid pregnancy, this is the time to make sure you use a contraceptive to keep it safe.
Managing your workouts
One of the best benefits of tracking the monthly cycle is that it can help you plan your workouts to your maximum advantage. From day 8 to 14 is the time when estrogen levels rise, and you feel energetic, so its the best time to intensify your workouts. Whereas a week before your periods as the energy levels begin to drop, you should opt for gentle yoga, tai chi or walks, as the endorphins released during exercise will help to lift the mood and manage PMS symptoms. Your menstrual cycle is a good indicator of your overall well-being. By tracking your periods, you are more prepared for your periods and can manage the PMS symptoms better. Also, the next time you visit the gynecologist, you will have a pretty good idea about not just your last menstrual period date but also the flow pattern and symptoms. Providing detailed information to the doctor can be of big help to determine your menstrual health and fitness.
