Consider this a reason to draw yourself a hot bath and take a while to soak. Your cramps will feel better and your period may run its course faster – and you get some much needed me-time, too.

In fact, overexercising, or exercising more than your body is used to, can completely change your normal period schedule. Gymnasts and the like often don’t get their periods at all because they work out so much. While you shouldn’t work out so much your body gets stunted, exercising regularly does have many benefits.

It’s great for stress, too. However, some believe that it can stop your cycle entirely, so be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin taking this route.

Most people have a higher sex drive during their periods, anyway. Wait till the 3rd day or so (or whenever your period is a bit lighter), lay down some towels, and stick to the missionary position. You may be surprised how much you like it. Though it’s less likely, you can get pregnant during your period. Play it safe and use protection.

Cut down on caffeine, alcohol, and sodium while on your period, as these things dehydrate the body. If you do consume these goods, make up for it by drinking even more water.

Tea is the next best thing to water. If you can’t drink water, this should be your go-to. In addition to keeping you hydrated, drinking tea has also been linked to fighting cancer, heart disease, and diabetes; encouraging weight loss; lowering cholesterol; and bringing about mental alertness. [6] X Research source

Cantaloupe Citrus fruits and juices, such as orange and grapefruit Kiwi Mango Papaya Pineapple Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, cranberries Watermelon

Dill Celery Sesame seeds Salmon Dark chocolate Parsley Hummus

If you desperately need a pick-me-up, go for a bite of dark chocolate and glass of red wine. Dark chocolate has that sugar you’re craving but is more natural; red wine has heart benefits and antioxidants that fight in your favor.

The amount of periods you get each year will depend on the type of birth control you take. For some people, birth control can cause unexpected bleeding (spotting) in between periods.

If for some reason you don’t wish to have your period at all, many people report their period lapsing after taking the shot for about a year. [12] X Research source

With the approval of your doctor, this can be safe. Just know that you may have breakthrough bleeding if you rely on this method too long or too often. It can also give you some wonky physical symptoms and mess with accuracy in pregnancy tests. [13] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source There are actually types of birth control pills on the market that have you take active pills for 12 weeks, meaning a period once every three months. If this sounds up your alley, talk to your doctor about getting a prescription for one of these varieties (Seasonale, Jolessa and Quasense, Seasonique and Camrese, Lybrel).

Follow the package directions when it comes to how many you should take. 200 to 400 mg orally every 4 to 6 hours as needed is the recommended adult dose of Ibuprofen and Motrin. [15] X Research source See a doctor if your period pain is severe so you can get tested for fibroids and endometriosis.

Milk, collard greens, yogurt, rhubarb, tofu, and sardines are all rich sources of calcium. To get more vitamin D, incorporate more fish (especially raw fish), eggs, dairy products, oysters, mushrooms, and fortified cereals into your diet. [16] X Research source You can also take a cod liver oil supplement, which contains both vitamin A and vitamin D. [17] X Research source

To determine if your bleeding is abnormally heavy, check for the following symptoms: Bleeding enough to soak a tampon or pad every hour[21] X Research source Periods that last for longer than 7 days[22] X Research source Passing blood clots while menstruating[23] X Research source If you do have the above symptoms, talk to your doctor. You can get started on medication right away that can bring your periods back to normal and keep you healthy.