Menstruation can be uncomfortable for everyone. I started my cycle at 16 and, while I didn’t experience severe pain as some friends did, I had irregular periods. After having a baby at 28, my cycle stabilized, but the discomfort remained. Now at 41, I can anticipate my cycle, yet the cramping still affects my mood. I believe anyone menstruating deserves a day off, especially on the first day. Over time, I’ve discovered helpful period products to ease the monthly struggle.
Fortunately, innovation is reshaping this space. New brands are emerging with refreshing alternatives. Keep reading to find out about my go-to products, covering pain relief and period underwear, plus a special device that completely alleviated my menstrual pain!
For Pain Relief:
Ovira Noha Pulse Therapy Device
I discovered this remarkable drug-free device in a magazine. Intrigued, I contacted the Australian startup for more information. Founder Alice Williams aimed to empower women to reclaim their freedom from debilitating period pain. How does it work? Attach the Noha “Love Handles” patches to your abdomen or lower back and clip the small Noha device onto your clothing. Activate it, and the device sends gentle pulses (TENS) through the patches, which feel like soft vibrations. These pulses help disrupt the pain signals your nervous system sends to your brain. No signals mean no pain.
While TENS is new for menstrual pain, the medical field has used this technology for decades. It genuinely amazed me how quickly it relieved my discomfort. It's compact and lightweight, making it easy to wear anywhere. You can adjust the intensity based on your pain level.
Our contributing editor, Lourdes Avila Uribe, shared her experience:
“I was shocked by the Ovira device’s effectiveness. My cramps usually leave me incapacitated. On a pain scale of 1 to 10, I hover around 7 or 8. I often have to leave classes or events due to the pain. I couldn’t believe that just minutes after starting the device, I felt my muscles relax and the pain subside. Within 20 minutes, I was ready to go out. That’s not typical for me! With a pain reliever and a bath, I was back to normal in less than an hour instead of suffering all day.”
Rael Heating Patch for Menstrual Cramps, 18 Count
Heat is incredibly soothing during pain. While I love taking baths, the Rael heating patches are perfect for when I can't. Infused with soothing ingredients like lemon balm and jasmine, these patches reach a therapeutic temperature to enhance blood flow and help muscles relax. Just remember to place them over clothing!
I’m a fan of Foria’s products, especially their CBD suppositories. Their bundle for period relief includes a balm that feels luxurious on the skin, perfect for the stomach and lower back. The vaginal suppositories provide relief for internal discomfort and can enhance intimacy.
The Feelist Do Not Disturb Extra Strength Body Cream
This body cream from The Feelist is perfect for when I need potent pain relief. With 500mg of Broad Spectrum CBD and calming essential oils, it deeply moisturizes while alleviating discomfort.
Juna Ease Functional Body Oil, 400mg
If you want to ease muscle and mental tension, Juna’s functional body oil is the answer. It’s light enough for facial use, so I often apply it to my jawline and neck. I keep it by my bed for nighttime relaxation after a long day.
ChickPEA Knit Hot Water Bottle with Lambswool Knitted Cover
Hot water bottles are classic pain relievers. Growing up, my mom used one to warm my bed. I still find them comforting for menstrual pain. I secure it on my lower back with a sweater for cozy relief.
For Flow Management:
In the U.S., about 12 billion pads and 7 billion tampons are disposed of annually. Many contribute to landfill waste. If you want to be eco-friendly, period underwear is a fantastic choice. I love The Period Company’s bikini style, which I wear all day without leaks. They’re also affordable and comfortable, holding up to 10 tampons' worth of flow.
For lighter days, I wear Thinx cycle shorts. They’re stylish, comfortable, and perfect for workouts, with a high-waisted fit that feels secure.
For swimming or beach days, I prefer the Saalt menstrual cup. Made from ultra-soft silicone, it’s comfortable and can be worn for up to 12 hours without discomfort. This duo pack includes two sizes, or you can take their cup quiz to find the right fit for you.
For Mood Enhancement:
Marea PMS Elixir: The Menstruator Multivitamin
If PMS affects you, consider Marea’s multivitamin, which contains 15 essential vitamins and minerals targeting menstrual discomfort. It helps regulate hormones, reducing symptoms like bloating and cramping. I notice a difference when I take them regularly; they’re popular and will be available for pre-order soon!
Juna Nightcap Sleep Drops, 750mg CBD/30mg CBN
After trying numerous CBD products, I always return to Juna’s Nightcap. It calms my nerves and helps me relax for better sleep, particularly during my period when rest is harder to achieve.
Fleur Marche Relief Wellness Patch
I’ve used Fleur Marche patches and found them effective. These patches deliver ingredients gradually for 12 hours, helping ease menstrual discomfort and aid recovery after exercise or a night out.
For Skincare:
During my period, I often face hormonal breakouts. Faace’s mask is designed for “period skin,” with a blend of ingredients to prevent breakouts and provide hydration.
ZitSticka KILLA Kit Zit Treatment
When a breakout occurs, I rely on ZitSticka patches. Their microdart technology effectively targets early-stage zits, delivering active ingredients directly to the source.
OSEA’s blemish balm is one of my favorites, combining seaweed, tea tree, and thyme to treat breakouts without harsh chemicals. It calms and hydrates the skin beautifully.
Omnilux Contour Face Light-Therapy Mask
This LED mask not only helps with anti-aging but also clears acne. I love using it before bed, as studies suggest it may improve sleep quality.
Cosmedix Micro Defense Microbiome Sheet Mask Set, 5 Masks
For balancing skin during my menstrual cycle, I recommend these Cosmedix sheet masks, which hydrate and nourish the skin microbiome.
For Bathing:
Prima Bath Gem 25mg CBD Bath Soak
A CBD bath bomb sounds fantastic! This one delivers just enough CBD to help you feel relaxed.
Surya Hormone Soothing Bath Soak
With wild yam and shatavari, this bath soak provides soothing benefits. Enjoy a calming experience that restores balance.
Clover Apothecary Serenity Solar Soak, 300 mg
This Vermont-based CBD soak contains 300 mg, perfect for easing cramps and discomfort.
Nature of Things Restorative Floral Bath, 250 mg
For a luxurious soak, this bath serum offers great pain relief and delightful floral scents. It’s a worthwhile investment!
Up&Up Epsom Soothing Lavender Bath Salt for Soaking
Epsom salts are a reliable option for muscle aches and cramps, providing a soothing effect with every soak.
