Can drinking and partying really affect your period? We’ve done the hard work for you and answered all your questions below.
Do I have to stay home and sleep when I’m on my period?
Absolutely not, in fact going out and enjoying yourself actually helps to reduce PMS symptoms, like mood swings. Nothing cures a bad mood better then hitting the dance floor. The problem comes in when you start taking things overboard by drinking and smoking excessively and not eating or sleeping properly. Make sure you keep things balanced by drinking lots of water, eating nutritious meals and sleeping to keep your body nourished and healthy.
How often should I change my tampon on a night out?
Answer: Ideally one should change their tampon every four hours, with the maximum time it should be in your body being eight. Changing your tampon may be the last thing on your mind after a night out, so set a reminder on your phone to change your tampon just before you go to sleep.
Help! My tampon fell out of my handbag in front of my crush?
Yes, this is embarrassing but remember, the way you react will influence how he reacts too. Run away screaming and he’ll know somethings up. Luckily the new Tampax® Compak tampons are concealed in a pretty, candy-esque wrapping, which means your crush probably won’t even notice it’s a tampon after all!
Can I still go out and party while wearing a tampon?
Answer: Yes! In fact we encourage it! Tampax® Compak tampons are the perfect feminine protection for dancing the night away as they allow you to move easily and can’t be seen under your clothing. Plus having a boogie on the dance floor can reduce menstrual cramps, so get moving girls!
Can drinking alcohol affect my menstrual cycle?
Yes, not only does alcohol cause liver damage but studies have shown that it can also cause irregular menstrual cycles. This is because it temporarily increases levels of oestrogen and testosterone, which can interrupt normal hormonal fluctuations that are necessary for ovulation. Doctors aren’t sure how much alcohol you’d need to drink for this to happen but err on the safe side and stick to the recommended one drink or less per day.
Can smoking make my PMS worse?
Yes! Smoking is bad for you, end of story! Studies have shown that women who smoke suffer from worse PMS compared to those who don’t. That’s because smoking, just like drinking alcohol, can alter your hormone levels. Women who smoke also tend to have shorter and more irregular period compared to non-smokers, which can affect your chances of conceiving in the future.
Is it true that my period can sync with my ‘besties’?
Also known as menstrual synchrony, this weird but fascinating phenomenon is possible and apparently is related to the pheromones in our body. Freaky, but true.
Can I fall pregnant while on my period?
Yes you can. So if you do decide to do the dirty while on your period then always be wise and use a condom. This will also guard you against any unwanted sexually transmitted diseases.
Will drinking make my “flow” heavier?
We totally get why you’d think this, as alcohol thins the blood right? This is true, however one must remember that menstruation is not blood per se, it’s actually the shedding of the uterus wall. Other than that there’s no conclusive evidence that alcohol can make your flow heavier.
Is my alcohol tolerance lower when I’m menstruating?
Studies have shown that women may feel the effects of alcohol more when they are premenstrual. This is because it takes longer than usual for alcohol to be broken down in the body, therefore the concentration of alcohol stays in the blood longer. (Institute of Alcohol Studies 2005)
So there you have it, all your frequently answered queries solved. Do you have any party-related questions? Share them with us below!
