How to Help a Girl Feel Better During Her Period

Women often experience various symptoms during their period, such as cramps, bloating, constipation, headaches, and mood swings. You may feel uncertain about how to help when you see your loved one struggling, but there are things you can do to ease her discomfort. Start by addressing her physical symptoms with pain relievers and fiber-rich foods, then uplift her spirits with a gentle, caring attitude and assist with household chores.

Give her ibuprofen or aspirin. Women often experience cramps during menstruation, and medications like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce the discomfort. If she doesn’t have any medication on hand, you can head to the pharmacy to buy the pain relief medicine she prefers. Ask her if she needs any, and if not, just leave it on the table within easy reach for later.

• 400 mg ibuprofen or 600 mg aspirin can be taken every 4–6 hours as needed.

Give her a hot water bag. If she prefers natural remedies over medication, help her place a hot water bag on her lower abdomen to ease cramps. You can buy a disposable hot pack at a pharmacy, or make a reusable one by filling a sock with rice and tying it off.

• Heat the rice-filled sock in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Homemade hot packs shouldn’t be used for more than 30 minutes at a time, but disposable ones can be used continuously for up to 8 hours.

Choose fiber-rich foods. Women often experience constipation during their period, so prepare or buy snacks rich in fiber for her. Offer her fruits like raspberries and pears, vegetables like broccoli, lentils, brown rice, and whole grains. However, don’t force her if she isn’t in the mood to eat. If she craves something starchier, you could make a waffle topped with some fruit slices.

Avoid salty foods and alcohol. Certain foods can lead to dehydration, bloating, and worsen period symptoms. If you’re buying groceries or cooking, avoid purchasing alcohol and salty snacks like chips. However, if she really wants those items, don’t refuse her like she’s a child. Instead, suggest healthier alternatives as well.

Encourage her to drink plenty of water. Dehydration can intensify cramps, so always make sure water is within her reach. Refill her water bottle when it’s running low, or just pour a glass of water and leave it on the table or bedside before sitting down to watch TV together.

Massage her. A back or foot massage can help relieve her pain, and it also shows that you care and want to be there for her. Ask if she would like a massage, but don’t be upset if she declines. She might simply not want to be touched right now.

Take her for a walk. She might not feel like exercising at this time, but physical activity can actually help ease menstrual symptoms. Instead of suggesting a gym workout, ask if she’d like to take a walk with you. However, don’t explain the reason for the walk, as it might make her feel pressured into exercising.

Be understanding. Don’t make jokes about her behavior or symptoms, and if “women’s issues” make you uncomfortable, don’t let it show. She might talk about what she’s going through, or she might not. Wait for her to open up and respond maturely when she does. Only ask about symptoms when they relate to her health and emotions.

• Listen if she complains about her period and let her know you empathize with what she’s going through.
• Never use terms like “crazy” or “out of control” to describe her behavior during this time. She might be more emotional due to hormonal changes, but that doesn’t mean she’s any less intelligent or rational than usual.

Ask if she wants some alone time. Sometimes during her period, she may want to curl up in your arms on the couch, but there are also times when she might prefer space. Don’t assume you know what she wants. Ask her in a non-judgmental tone if she’d like some time to herself for a day or two. If not, be there for her whenever possible so she doesn’t feel lonely.

• If she does want some alone time, respect her wishes, but let her know you’re thinking of her with sweet messages when you’re apart.

Cut back on social activities. Your girl may not be in the mood to socialize much during her period, so don’t pressure her to go out with you right now. Instead, order her favorite food and enjoy a movie night at home. If she’s feeling more tired than usual, you might suggest going to bed early together.

• If you’re close enough to track her cycle, try to avoid scheduling important activities or events during the week of her period. Skip plans like camping or trips to the beach, as well as events that require dressing up.

Take over household chores and errands. If menstrual cramps become severe, she may not have the energy to handle household tasks. You can step in to wash the dishes, do the laundry, buy groceries, cook, and tidy up. Even if she's not in much pain, your actions will make her feel loved and appreciated.

Give her compliments. Women often feel bloated and less attractive during their period. A few kind words can help her feel more confident. Avoid overpraising, like saying she looks amazing (she might think you're lying), but look for small moments to offer genuine compliments.

• For example, if she tears up during an emotional scene in a TV show, tell her that you admire her sensitivity and compassion.
• If she prefers staying in, tell her you feel comfortable and relaxed being at home with her.

Be patient. These days can be challenging for both her and you. Avoid getting angry, even if you think she’s acting irrationally, and don’t retreat. Take deep breaths when her behavior is hard to understand, and remind yourself that it will pass. Most periods last about 3-5 days, although some women experience them for a week.

• Try meditating once or twice a day to ease any frustration you might feel.