So yeah, my period changed and I hate it! Okay, hate is a big word but it grabs your attention, doesn’t it? Either way, I have some ‘issues’ with my period. I don’t think I’ve ever talked about my menstrual cycle on the internet. Mainly because it never was a problem for me. Meaning my periods were smooth sailing on the red sea, know what I mean? Just kidding and also not, because I truly had the best menstrual cycle a woman could wish for. Barely any pain, a very light flow and a very strict schedule. Loved it, miss it and I want it back. Let’s talk about it.
Why are talking about periods?
This my dear lady friend, is a very good question. I’m writing about my period because I think it might help you or another woman out. You see, when I first started to notice the period changes I freaked out. I really, really thought I might have a (deadly) disease or something very seriously wrong with my uterus. And what’s the first thing you do when you feel sick? Right, you Google and read about the most horrific possible illnesses you might have. Does that help? Absolutely not!
All I could find were general articles and those stupid tips on ‘how to deal’ with period stuff for teenagers. Since there aren’t that many real-life stories about menstrual cycles and periods online, it’s hard to ease your mind. I personally found it very hard to find another woman’s story I could relate to. Although you might not have the same period changes I have, this article might help you ease your mind. Or at least help you figure things out and not freak out too much. Because if I’m honest, these changes can be quite scary and hard to deal with by yourself. So let’s do it together and kick some period butt!
She said I’m old
Around my thirtieth birthday it started to change, my period became a beast. A little hormone monster if you will. Yes, I’ve been watching Big mouth, don’t judge me. At first I thought it might be temporary, and caused by the big amount of stress I was under. But my period kept on bugging me by getting very painful, and producing heavier flows. This honestly shocked me, I’ve never experienced menstrual cramps like this before. I thought my uterus was about to explode! I also started feeling sick, feverish and nauseous. The cherry on top was feeling anxious, tired and super annoyed by anything and nothing.
So to the doctor I went, who basically told me I’m old. She explained to me that your menstrual cycle can change, just like the symptoms when you get older. Now, I sorta kinda knew this could happen. I just never really thought about it or realized it could happen to me too. In my mind I’m not old, but my body and brain obviously see things a little different. They start new processes within my body without me being able to control it. Going to the doctor did really help me ease my mind and realize nothing bad is going on, thank God!
What changed?
As I mentioned before I’ve always had the best periods ever. A very light flow, no pain or mood changes at all. And I always had thirty days between each period, which lasted five days tops. The only thing I did always noticed was water weight, because my whole body would bloat like crazy. My boobs could grow a cup size and I could gain up to two kilos in body weight. Those were the good times, sigh… Now a few things have changed and I’m still learning how to deal with it.
My period changed drastically by shortening my menstrual cycle by ten days. I used to go thirty days without a period, now I usually have my period every twenty days. The strict schedule is also out of the window, as I now can’t (always) predict when my period comes just by counting the days. I can also feel extremely tired, to the point where I can literally fall asleep, no matter where I am. I often fill nauseous, feverish, very cold and like I’m about to throw up. I can cry for no reason, even if I don’t feel bad at all. But when I’m mad, I’m super mad. I also notice a lot of extra water weight, very painful cramps and a heavy flow.
So what now?
I’ve been dealing with these period changes for a year and half now. I’m still not sure how to deal with it, as I can’t control what my body does. I have found some small tricks to make it all a bit easier. Most tips are based on listening to my body. For instance: When my period is about to start, I tend to get really tired. I don’t fight it anymore, instead I just go to bed early or take an afternoon nap. I try to eat Keto style as much as possible, but when my period cravings kick in I don’t. I just eat whatever my body tells me to eat. I just go with the flow, pun definitely intended…
The one thing that gets to me the most is the feverish feeling. I literally feel sick as if I have the flu. I still haven’t figured out what I can do about that, other than taking it easy and chill out in bed if I can. The cramps have been real too, but I’m pretty good at enduring pain. Being more emotional when I actually feel fine is truly weird. I can tell it’s not me, it’s the hormones taking over my first reactions to everything. I’m pretty aware when it happens, so most people probably won’t notice it’s happening. I can keep a straight face, but it doesn’t feel comfortable though.
How to deal with period changes
I’m no expert or doctor, therefor I would advice you to visit one just like I did. Arrange for a checkup, so you know exactly what’s happening with your body. This doesn’t just give you peace of mind, it also helps you understand why the period changes are occurring. I would also like to say that I personally think it’s good to listen to your body. If you feel tired, take a nap. Feel like eating certain foods? Eat it! Take care of yourself and don’t push yourself over your physical limits. This is something I was doing at first, because I think I should always power through. That’s just not true, you don’t need to be a period hero, just relax.
Another practical tip is to track your period and the symptoms. You can do this every day, week or month, it’s up to you. It will help you to understand what happens to your body and when. This can help you prepare for your period so you don’t feel overwhelmed when it actually comes. Also, don’t feel bad about sudden mood or physical changes. It’s all normal, you should (only) be worried if nothing happens. Not having a period at all can also be a very big sign that something in your body is out of sync. Or maybe you’re ‘just’ preggers and about to give birth to your very own mini me. Either way, keep track of what happens with your body. Then take practical steps and measures if needed.
My period changed and I’m curious to hear if you’ve had any period changes lately, let me know!
Kaya-Quintana
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Makeup Muddle
It always confuses me when doctors belittle us for our periods changing, or us developing new symptoms because every medical website tells you to speak to your doctor if you start having anything new happen. My periods were fine until I hit 28, and then on they’ve been really awful. It’s miserable, and I wish my doctor would be more helpful than just putting it down to age. Thank you for sharing your experience with us xx
Kaya-Quintana
Makeup MuddleThankfully I do have really good female doctors who have been very nice about it. Turns out that what I have is probably PMS, which after researching hits a lot of women in their late twenties and early thirties. I just didn’t know that, haha! But yeah, there are some doctors who can be total assholes, but I make them known I pay for their work. So they need to listen and give good advise, I don’t take no for an answer ?I hope you feel better soon!