Six things you probably don't know about your period

It happens every month. It's no fun and we know surprisingly little about it. Whether you call it by a nickname or just mutter veiled curses, your period doesn't really cooperate, and most of us just do the same thing month after month, year after year. Here are six facts about your period that you might not know, and some hints for taming the discomfort.

How does your uterus really work?
Probably never gave it much thought, right? Contrary to what might seem logical, you're not trying to relax your uterus during all that cramping or PMS. What you want is a toned and efficient uterus. Think about it – your uterus is a hollow muscle and its job is to push whatever is in the uterus down and out. The better it can do its job, the easier it all works out. Whether you're in labor or just doing the monthly change out. It's exactly the same principle as why strong leg muscles help you run a race more efficiently. So, think toned and efficient and stay away from relaxed and not doing the job.

Speaking of toned and efficient, what do you know about uterine tonics?
Do you know about nature's little helpers with an affinity for your lady parts? Time to learn more about Lady's Mantle. Whether you have a new baby on your hip or are dealing with the change of life, your uterus is generally doing the same thing. Women have used lady's mantle for hundreds of years as an ally for menstrual cramping, heavy menstruation and menopause symptoms. It is also used for postpartum revitalization (think getting ready to build some new apartments) of your amazing uterus. That's exactly why it's one of the herbs used in Monthly Comfort Tea. Cinnamon and Lady's Mantle also work synergistically for when Aunt Flo is excessive, or post-baby.

How green are you?
According to our friends at GladRags, you menstruate about 340 times in your life. That amounts to 6800 pads or tampons thrown away. Replacing even a fraction of disposable menstrual products has a huge impact on your local landfill. If reusable products aren't your thing, look for non-chlorine bleached products, organic cotton, etc. It's also a good idea to review the guidelines for avoiding Toxic Shock Syndrome.

Can you reduce your risk of PMS?
A study in the Archives of Internal Medicine in 2005 suggests that a high intake of calcium and vitamin D reduces the risk of PMS. Women who ate four servings a day of low-fat milk or dairy or fortified orange juice were less likely to develop PMS. (Those with teens in the home might want to pay special attention!) There is also a recent study that suggests that chaste tree berry (also known as Vitex) may help reduce symptoms of PMS.

What about sex?
Find healthy ways to deal with stress, anxiety, lack of sleep and poor eating habits – they all affect your menstrual cycle for the worse. Exercise, get massages, have sex and get enough sleep – those all help your period. Your partner should love this news!

Aromatherapy can help.
Talk to your naturopathic doctor about what can work for you. Essential Oils stimulate your olfactory nerves which in turn affect emotions and can help balance hormones. Aromatherapy oils can promote restful sleep, alleviate headaches, lessen anxiety and depression, and even help reduce cramping. All of which can make your period better. Happy Mama Spray is an aromatherapy spray formulated with ginger and lime pure essential oils.

Don't hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider about your period. The rest of your menstruating life is too long to just suffer thru that time of the month.