Menstrual Cycle Blues: The Pain, The Emotions, and What Helps Me Stay Sane
Tori (Daughter)
There is a particular kind of dread that settles in quietly, almost predictably, yet never comfortably—the kind that comes with knowing your period is about to start. It isn’t just the physical pain people talk about so casually; it’s the way your entire body and mind seem to shift, like something slightly out of alignment that you can’t quite fix.
For me, it usually begins subtly. A dull ache in my lower stomach, a heaviness in my body that makes even simple tasks feel like they require more effort than usual. At first, I try to ignore it. I tell myself I’m just tired, maybe a little stressed. But then it builds….
The cramps become sharper, more insistent, like a reminder I can’t silence. It feels as though my whole body is folding in on itself, tightening in waves that come and go but never fully disappear.
What people don’t always understand is how consuming it can be. It’s not just a stomachache—it’s pain that radiates, that sits in your back, your hips, even your legs. It interrupts sleep, concentration, and sometimes even conversation.
You learn to smile through it, to sit still when all you want to do is curl up, and pretend you’re okay because life doesn’t pause just because you’re on your period.
And then there’s the emotional side, which can feel just as overwhelming. Small things suddenly feel BIGGER. I find myself more sensitive, more easily irritated, or unexpectedly sad without a clear reason why. It’s frustrating to feel like you’re not entirely in control of your own emotions, like your mind is moving through fog. You know it’s temporary, but in the moment, it feels very real.
There’s also a quiet loneliness in it. Even though so many women experience periods, and have been experiencing periods since the creation of man, it can still feel like something you go through alone. It’s not always visible, not always talked about honestly. It’s still a super taboo subject. Sometimes it’s brushed off with jokes or minimized, which makes it harder to explain just how intense it can be.
Over time, though, I’ve started to learn how to take care of myself during it. I’ve learned to listen to my body instead of fighting it. Resting when I need to. Using heat, drinking water, moving gently when it helps. Giving myself permission to slow down without feeling guilty. These small acts don’t erase the struggle, but they make it more manageable.
Struggling with your period teaches you a kind of resilience you don’t expect. It teaches you how to function even when you’re uncomfortable, how to be patient with yourself, and how to recognize your limits. It reminds you that your body is doing something complex and natural, even when it doesn’t feel fair.
Some months are easier than others. Some feel heavier, longer, harder to get through. But each time, I come out the other side with a deeper understanding of myself—of my strength, my sensitivity, and my need for care.
It’s not just a period. It’s an experience that shapes how you move through the world, even if no one else can see it.
My Go-To Essentials for Rough Cycle Days
1) Heating Wraps
These wraps from ThermaCare are amazing! On days where my period and work schedule collide, I can’t get through the day without them. Having to stand on my feet my entire shift and deal with nasty period cramps is not fun! These help offer heat and relief and make things more bearable.
2) Essential Oil
As a girly battling chronic nausea, I use peppermint oil more than I’d like to admit – especially during my period. I apply a drop or two to my fingers and rub my temples. This helps so much and helps relax my body and mind too!
3) Infused Pads
When I first saw these herbal infused pads from the Honey Pot Company, I really didn’t think they’d work, but I had NOTHING to lose. I was so surprised and have been buying them ever since. These pads are herbal infused so they have this nice cooling effect and helps with cramps. I definitely recommend these, especially during the first few days of your cycle.
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