How to Plan Ahead for Your Period

While nearly half the population experiences a period, individual experiences differ. Every body is different and people may experience varying cycle lengths with periods coming sooner or later than expected for a variety of reasons. We’ll explore what causes these fluctuations and how you can better prepare for your period, so that your cycle doesn't have to hold you back!

Different factors can make your period lighter, heavier, longer or shorter. With some of my patients, we've discovered that factors can include diet, sleep and exercise. To better prepare for your period, pay attention to these aspects and how they might affect the timing of your period each month. For example, have you noticed your period arrived later than normal? Think about whether your stress levels were higher or if you got less sleep. Or, does your flow feel unusually light? This could happen if you suddenly increase the regularity or intensity of your exercise. To learn about other causes, check out this Q&A on irregular periods.

Although every body's cycle might not be by-the-book, it's important to figure out what a regular cycle means for your body, so that you can pick out when something's not right. As always, I recommend talking to your OB/GYN so they can help you learn how your cycle might be linked to other factors of your health and wellness.

Whether your period follows a very specific schedule or comes as a surprise, one thing we know for sure is that it doesn't need to hold you back! Yes, periods can sometimes be inconvenient, but we can plan ahead for periods so that they don't catch us off guard. Using a period calculator is a great way to see which day your period will most likely arrive. The more you use the tracker, the more accurately you can predict the upcoming month's cycle. This tracker is also helpful for monitoring the different menstrual cycles that occur.

After a few months, you should start to see a pattern with your cycle. However, if you feel that your periods are irregular or unusual, I always recommend seeing your healthcare provider.

Now that you know how to better prepare for your period, you can feel more confident about managing it whenever it arrives. I always recommend that patients keep a period kit on-hand for those "just in case moments." Although you might be able to predict the timing of your cycle, there's always a possibility for light spotting or even a heavier flow than expected. Make sure you have some products like U by Kotex® Security® Lightdays® Liners or Click® Compact Tampons in your bag or back pocket, to keep you dry and comfortable for any surprises!

After all, periods are a normal and beautiful part of human life. So, let's treat them as such, instead of viewing them as a burden to our daily schedules. With a little prep and patience, you can maintain a healthy period and achieve all those awesome goals!

Author Summary: Staci Tanouye, MD, OB-GYN is a physician in a private practice and an expert in adolescent health, sexual health, reproductive health, and menopausal health. She has become one of the leading gynecologists on social media with the mission to educate women and all people with vulvas to love their bodies through knowledge and empowerment.