Planning a holiday may look at bit different these days but we can still dream! One thing we’re probably not dreaming about is getting a period while we’re supposed to be having carefree fun. But it doesn’t have to be a downer. Whether you’re heading to the snow or travelling to the tropics, here are our best period-related holiday tips.
1. Skip it Yes, this is the way to make life as easy as possible (and you don’t have to read the rest of this blog!). If you’re taking a birth control pill, you can decide not to have a break. Medical studies report no negative health effects when you skip your period on the pill, but because all pills are different, it’s worth checking in with your doctor before you do this for the first time. They may suggest you swap to one of the extended-cycle or continuous regimen pills.
2. Stock up If you’re going overseas (we wish), chances are you won’t be able to get your fave brand of pads or tampons. In fact, if you’re travelling to anywhere off the beaten track even in Australia, the choice will be greatly reduced. Great news - you can update your Juuni subscription at any time, so can top up the products in your next delivery in time for the holidays. You can also skip a month while you're away. Win-win!
3. Spread the load When you’re packing, stash some pads and/or tampons in your luggage and make sure they are within easy unpacking distance in case you need them in a hurry. Then pop a couple more in your carry-on (bags do get delayed!) and some in your handbag for good measure. It’s a good idea to do the same with any painkillers or herbal remedies you use, too.
4. Plan ahead If you know you’re going to be out on a boat all day or climbing a mountain somewhere, try to avoid booking those tours on the days when you need privacy to change your tampon the most often, or you just feel a bit blah. You might want to give early mornings the heave-ho as well.
5. Pack accordingly In among those skimpy bikinis and tummy-skimming tops, pack a couple of things that will make you feel good (and comfortable!) on bloat days. Long cotton dresses or palazzo pants could just be a winner at dinner. Nowhere to do laundry? Make sure you have plenty of undies and swimwear, in case of accidents. You might not need them but hey, it’s good to have choices.
6. Swim safely It’s absolutely fine and dandy to swim with a tampon in and don’t worry about sharks! They aren’t attracted by those teensy amounts of menstrual blood that may find their way into the ocean.
7. Stay hydrated Periods and hot weather don’t make good bedfellows – and dizziness and fainting are sure-fire ways to put a damper on the fun. So move slowly in the mornings, and keep your hydration levels topped up. Drink lots of water and eat lots of yummy local fruit.