Ok let's just say it. Periods can suck.
Yes your 'time of the month' can be a nice reminder that you're not pregnant but why does Aunt Flow come with so many downsides like mood swings, sore boobs and of course, worst of all, cramps.
Menstrual cramps (fancy term: dysmenorrhea) are throbbing or cramping pains in the lower abdomen.
Many women have menstrual cramps just before and during their menstrual periods and for some women, the discomfort is merely annoying. For others, menstrual cramps can be severe enough to interfere with everyday activities for a few days every month.
Luckily for you, whether your cramps are merely annoying or severe, we've found the ultimate hack to banish those stomach pains and let you get on with your day: the Body Hot Water Bottle.
Applying gentle heat on the abdomen helps relax the uterus muscles, it is these muscles that cause period cramps. Heat can also boost circulation in the abdomen which in return reduces pain.
The Body Hot Water Bottleis extra-long in design and has a tie so you can easily wrap it around your tummy to target body aches and enable you to keep moving around the house without having to wedge a regular hot water bottle in your trousers.
What else could the Body Hot Water Bottle help with?
- Relieving muscle soreness. Just been on a run? Wrap the Body Hot Water Bottle around the offending limbs and relax. You could also fill it with ice or cold water to reduce inflammation.
- Speaking of ice. This incredible water bottle can be used as an ice pack.
- You can use it to improve your sleep by warming up your bed beforehand or by wearing it whilst you sleep, almost like you're being spooned but you don't need to deal with dead arms or heavy breathing.
Feeling inspired?
I tried a menstrual cup for the first time and here's what I REALLY thought Sometimes though, your menstrual cramps are so painful that not even this incredible, targeted hot water bottle is enough.
In those instances, you could drink lots of water or peppermint tea to help reduce bloating, try doing some simple yoga or stretches to help increase blood flow or get on the paracetamol (we get it, as much as we love a natural remedy, sometimes nothing else will cut it).
Sleep is also always your friend.