Pads: Small absorbent cotton pads that are either glued to the inside of underwear or, in the case of some reusable cloth pads, snapped into place with fasteners. Pads may be preferred by some trans people because they do not require the insertion of anything into the genitals. Tampons: Small cotton cylinders that are inserted into the vagina. When properly inserted, you should not be able to feel it in place. Period underwear: Made up of three layers: a highly absorbent layer, a leak-resistant layer, and the external fabric, which is often in fun patterns and colors and comes in a variety of styles such as boxers and boyshorts. The underwear is then washable and reusable for an extended period of time, allowing you to interact with menstrual blood and products as little as possible. Menstrual cups: A Silicone cup that is inserted into the vagina and emptied as needed to collect menstrual blood. A menstrual cup can cost around $50 and last for many years if rinsed and sterilized in boiling water on a regular basis. Using a menstrual cup, on the other hand, necessitates inserting it into the vagina, which can be uncomfortable. But if inserted properly, you should not be able to feel it in there.
A transgender or nonbinary friend may be more understanding than a cisgender friend, but you can talk to them as long as they don’t judge you and you trust them.
When it comes to yoga, practicing it can provide enormous benefits in terms of balancing your mood and relieving menstrual cramps. Try positions like Child’s Pose and Downward Facing Dog, they’re are not too strenuous. [10] X Research source
Also, while bubble bath and bath bombs are nice additions, use them with caution if you are on your period. Chemicals and dyes can irritate the vaginal lining and disrupt your pH balance, which is already delicate when you’re menstruating. Instead, use essential oils, Epsom salts, or nothing at all. Alternatively, you could shower on your period. The blood will rinse off and run down the drain, allowing you to thoroughly clean yourself. If you use pads, you may notice that the dried blood is washing off, which simply means that you are washing away any potential infections and odors. Remember that your vagina is self-cleaning. To wash around your vagina, all you need is clean, warm water. If you’re using a hand-held showerhead, angle the water away from your vagina rather than directly into it. [13] X Research source
Know ways to manage sex if you’re transgender or nonbinary.
“Clue,” a gender-neutral period tracking app, with the advantage of having a non-gendered interface (unlike many apps that are not only very “women” focused, but also almost entirely pink) and not making assumptions about anyone’s gender simply because they menstruate.
Leafy greens: Iron levels can be increased by eating leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach. Spinach is high in magnesium as well. Nuts: The majority of nuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids and a good source of protein. They also have magnesium and a variety of vitamins. Pineapple: The sweet fruit contains manganese, copper, vitamin C, B1, B6 and several other vitamins. Pineapple’s vitamins help to relax your muscles, making it an excellent remedy for menstrual cramps. Yogurt: Yogurt can nourish the good bacteria in your vagina and may aid in the fight against infections. Yogurt is also high in magnesium and other important nutrients such as calcium. Bananas: Bananas may be the answer to easing menstrual cramps. They are high in potassium and can help prevent muscle pain and bloating. Beverages you should drink on your period include peppermint tea, herbal tea, and water. Avoid red meat, caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
Limit your binder usage by wearing it only to work or school, then changing into loose-fitting shirts and pasties at home. As a temporary substitute for a binder, you could wear a sports bra or a tank top. Giving yourself (or receiving one from a partner) a massage can help alleviate the symptoms of tenderness and soreness in your breasts/chest area. This is not a good option for everyone, though, especially if you have dysphoria. Don’t do high-energy activities with a binder or sleep in your binder.
Testosterone: If you take testosterone or use hormone replacement therapy, your period may become lighter and shorter over time, or it may arrive unexpectedly before stopping. Testosterone injections (rather than testosterone cream) can hasten this process. Occasional spotting or cramping may be normal after a period has ended. This is not permanent, so if you stop taking hormones, your period will return. [22] X Research source Puberty blocking hormones: Puberty blocking hormones prevent the gendered changes that occur during puberty, including body changes such as breast growth and menstruation.
With hormonal birth control, people who use certain types of hormonal birth control may notice that their periods become lighter or stop entirely.
If your symptoms are unbearable, consult your doctor. While some pain and discomfort are normal during your period, you should see a doctor if your symptoms become intolerable. Everyone deserves to be seen by healthcare professionals who are attentive to their needs and capable of providing thoughtful care. If you’re looking for a provider who is more sensitive to your specific needs and knowledgeable about trans, genderqueer, and non-binary issues, the World Professional Association for Transgender Health’s and the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association’s searchable provider databases may be useful. [26] X Research source
