5 Period Tips for Women with ADHD
It’s pretty common for those of us with ADHD to be a little, uh forgetful, especially around that time of the month. So, I’ve come up with a few tricks to make sure I’m always prepared.
It’s pretty common for those of us with ADHD to be a little, uh forgetful, especially around that time of the month (ADHD + PMDD, anyone?). So, I’ve come up with a few tricks to make sure I’m always prepared!
1. Check your period inventory
It’s a good idea to check your inventory around the same time every month and make sure you’re well-stocked with all the supplies you need. You may want to spend a cycle or two keeping track of what you use and how much, then make a checklist with an estimate of what you need. For example, if you usually take 3 ibuprofen during the first couple days of each period, make sure you have at least 3 before your cycle begins.
2. Keep at least 1 reusable period product for emergencies
Whether you typically use disposable or reusable period products, it may be a good idea to invest in one or two reusable products (i.e. a cloth pad, a menstrual cup, or pair of period underwear) just to have on hand. One of the best things about reusable period products is that you never run out. So, even if your go-to remains Tampax tampons or Kotex pads, you’ll always have a cloth pad in your bathroom drawer or your purse to throw on just in case you run out. And the best part is, if you do end up using it in a period emergency, you can just wash it and put it back in your bathroom drawer for the next time.
3. Build a personalized period kit
So there is no formula to a period care kit. Just make a list of things you want or need for your period, and then get everything together. If you want, you can fill a box or a drawer at home with everything from heating pads to maxi pads to ibuprofen to chocolate. Or, you can make a mini kit for your purse or your car with some pads, tampons, a mini chocolate bar, a single-use hot pack, and a travel bottle of Advil or Aleve.
These are just examples — use your imagination and best judgment to build a kit that will be useful for you.
4. Use a period tracker app
This is the tip that makes all the other tips possible.
Using a period tracker can help you in so many ways. You can get to know your body by keeping track of your symptoms throughout your cycle, including aches and pains, discharge, anxiety levels, and emotions. Based on these symptoms and input from past cycles, your app can let you know when you’re going to start your period, begin PMS or PMDD symptoms, ovulate, or whatever else you might want an alert for. Wanna set an alert 7 days before your period starts so you can check your product inventory? Go ahead! Set an alert right before it starts to make sure your care kit is intact? Do it! An app can be so helpful in avoiding surprises and staying prepared.
Additionally, most apps allow you to export your data into a spreadsheet so if you’re monitoring your health or fertility, you can have all the information you or your gynecologist might need.
5. Relax
Breathe. Exercise. Meditate.
Drink some herbal tea. Take a walk or a run. Do some yoga or Pilates. Window shop. Color. Bake some brownies. Watch a cheesy movie. Play a video game.
If you’re me, watch some Star Trek.
Taking care of yourself when you’re feeling down is the epitome of self-care, and the best prophylactic for burnout, illness, or injury. Be sure to take the time to care for your body, your brain, and your emotions. You’ll be better because you did.
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