This first point is about keeping your long-term health in mind. Unfortunately, what a lot of tampons and pads have in them are rayon or bleached cotton. The problem with

both of these is that you run the risk of being exposed to pesticides and also the chemical dioxin. Dioxin has been linked to fertility issues (especially if you use

them in the form of a tampon). What’s the solution? Either go with an organic kind of tampon or pad. Or, opt for the menstrual cup. More and more women

are loving it. Click here to read why.

To be real about it, evening primrose oil is something you should take all month long because it not only helps to lessen your cramps, but it also does wonders

for PMS symptoms too. It contains omega-6 fatty acids, which can regulate your hormones and even keep your period pimples from getting out of control. And, should you ever decide

to get pregnant (or pregnant again), the omega-3 fatty acid in it can help with cervical mucus production (what caries the sperm to your eggs). It can even make labor

a little easier to bear. Take about 1500 milligrams a day to get the best results. Remember to always run supplements by your doctor first, though.

You really shouldn’t douche, period. Your vagina area is self-cleaning, so if you’re doing it to get rid of an odor or unfamiliar discharge, look at it this way---the douche

is pushing whatever is going on further up into your body (eww!!!). See a doctor instead. 

But even if you ignore this little tidbit of advice, at least wait until

after your period is over. The fragrance chemicals, dyes and parabens can end up irritating your vagina and sometimes make cramps even worse. Douches can also strip your body of the

natural bacteria, which can lead to a yeast infection. Who wants that on top of a period?!

Did you know that fish oil can make your cramps better? You can take a supplement (one a day, every day) or you can get the fish oil in by

well, eating fish. On the days when you don’t have much of an appetite, try eating a salmon salad. Pairing the fish up with leafy greens will provide you with oil

and iron. And, it's a light meal that won't feel heavy on your tummy.

Some women’s periods are harder on them than it has to be because they have a magnesium deficiency. When there’s not enough magnesium in your system, it can affect how

your nerves and muscles function. When that happens, your period pain can worsen. Some people take a magnesium, calcium and zinc supplement. Others prefer to eat foods with calcium in

it. Guess which one has a lot of magnesium? Dark chocolate (yay!). Others include dark leafy greens, whole grains, avocados, yogurt and dried fruit.

You could pop in an ibuprofen, but sometimes those have side effects. Another route to go is giving yourself an essential oil massage. There are several studies which prove that

rubbing your abdominal area with lavender or marjoram can calm you and lessen your cramping. The key to this is not to wait until the cramps have set in. Once

you know your period is about to start, get to rubbing right then.

If you love your java, consider cutting back around your period. Coffee is a stimulant that can make you more tense and anxious. Coffee is also a diuretic; the less

water in your body, the more intense your cramps may become. Drink some herbal tea instead.

Cinnamon is good because it increases blood circulation, plus it contains anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties to

make your cramps easier to deal with. Some other teas to try include ginger, chamomile and peppermint. All will make your period just a little bit easier to deal with

from beginning to end!