How to Get a Better Night's Sleep When You're on Your Period

No matter how much you savor sleep, getting a night of satisfying shut-eye can seem impossible on your period. Between worrying about leaks and being plagued by uncomfortable cramps, there are countless factors that can keep you awake at night. Below, we're sharing five easy additions to your bedtime routine that can help you sleep more comfortably on your period.

1. Sip an herbal tea

There's nothing more reliable than this natural, age-old cure. Though avoiding caffeine on your period is imperative — it's not only counterproductive to falling asleep but can actually make cramps worse — there are plenty of caffeine-free tea options to choose from. Our recommendations? Chamomile tea, a tried-and-true sleep agent, ginger tea to ease stomach pain, and cinnamon tea that reduces inflammation and cramps.

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Image Source: Shutterstock

2. Worry less with leak-free protection

Cramps aren't the only thing to make your period troublesome. Regardless of how light or heavy your flow may be, it can leave you feeling seriously stressed out and uncomfortable all night. If worrying about leakage is what's keeping you up, we suggest opting for a pad that's made for overnight wear. With a leak-free promise and built in channels that help block leaks front to back and side to side, Stayfree® Ultra Thin® Overnight with Wings are our favorite.

3. Try peppermint oil

Essential oils are everywhere these days, and you're about to understand why. With anti-inflammatory properties that can calm painful cramping and reduce bloating, peppermint oil is the missing piece in your nighttime routine. Pro tip: essential oils may cause an allergic reaction when applied directly on the skin, so add a few drops to a warm compress or dilute with water for best results. Then, place it over your abdomen for a cooling sensation that'll help you fall asleep and feel refreshed.

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Image Source: Shutterstock

4. Relieve pain the classic, mom-approved way

As any mom would agree, it's never a bad idea to keep a heating pad on hand. When you're winding down for the night, relax with a heating pad placed over any area that's causing your pain. The concentrated warmth will ease discomfort to make falling asleep easier. Just remember to remove it before you dose off for safety.

5. Adjust your sleeping position

From fully sprawled out to wrapping yourself in a cocoon of blankets, you probably have a signature sleeping pose that helps you catch some serious zzz's. But since your period — and the cramps that come with it — calls for modifications, we think it's time to try positions that reduce the pressure on your abdomen area. Our suggestions? Take the fetal position, or cozy up to a pillow and sleep on your side.

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