So, wait. What do you mean periods for trans girls? Yes, you read the title of the episode correctly. Trans women get periods too. So let’s jump right into it.
Symptoms:
Symptoms for periods for trans women are pretty much the same as for cis women, with the exception being that, because of a lack of a uterus, there is not shedding of the uterine lining, and therefore no bleeding during that time. The experienced symptoms can include abdominal cramps, bloating, headache, moodiness, increased bowel movements, breast soreness and increased discharge. The symptom of cramping is usually caused by the abdominal wall and intestinal muscles seizing.
Advice for physical symptoms:
If you’re having cramping, you can do a variety of different things to ease this symptom. There’s always over-the-counter pain medications, or a personal heater in the form of a hot water bottle or heating pad on the affected area. Generally you’ll want to keep your body fully extended, meaning either lying down or standing up, rather than curled up, as that will just increase the pain and/or pressure.
You can take a diuretic to decrease any bloating or swelling that can occur. This can be in the form of either over-the-counter meds or specific teas like dandelion.
For mood swings you can keep a stocked kit of things that you know will make you happy: movies and shows you like to watch, non-perishable treats, a comfy blanket, and a list of people who you can call when you need support are a good place to start with that.
Never underestimate the power of a relaxing bath. A nice hot or warm bath can soothe the cramping muscles, and adding a favorite bubble bath, bath bomb, or bath salt with your favorite scents can add to the relaxation and help ease the emotional symptoms.
Herbal options with Cris (recorded by cris)
Advice from JD (recorded by JD)
Outtro:
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