Let’s be real — even if you’ve been dealing with your period for years, it doesn’t always get easier. That time of the month still has a way of sneaking up and bringing a wave of stress with it.

Between the cramps, the anxiety about leaks, the mood swings and the kind of tiredness that leaves you feeling totally drained — periods can, quite simply, suck.

But over time, learning more about how the body works, understanding the menstrual cycle and having honest conversations around it can really help ease the monthly struggle.

So, with that in mind, here are five hacks to make your period feel a little bit more bearable.

Find what works for you.

That low-key panic about period leaks? Yup, most of us have been there.

Whether it’s checking the back of your jeans before standing up or quietly praying the plastic chair hasn’t betrayed you — the struggle is real. But knowing what works for you and what will make you more comfy throughout the day is key.

Hey Zomi is an Australian-owned brand, founded by sisters Zoe and Mika, with a focus on creating period care products that prioritise comfort and convenience.

Their menstrual disc is a reusable option that can hold up to four times more fluid than a standard tampon. Offering 12-hour, leak-free wear, which may help some people go longer between bathroom visits. It’s also designed for easy insertion and removal, can be emptied without taking it all the way out and yep — it even allows for mess-free period sex.

Incorporate gentle exercise.

When discomfort hits, exercise might be the last thing you feel like doing — but hear me out. Gentle movement can actually support overall wellbeing during your cycle.

Think light walks, a slow-flow yoga class or even a dip in the pool. These low-key activities can help get blood flowing and may ease some of the usual suspects — cramps, bloating and lower back aches. Plus, they can give your endorphins a nudge, and let’s be honest, that natural mood boost is very welcome.

For many, intense workouts just don’t hit the same during a period. A slow walk with a podcast might feel way better than a HIIT class — and that’s completely valid.

Track your cycle.

When it comes to periods, knowledge really is power.

Tracking your menstrual cycle with tools like apps or even a journal can help build a better understanding of how the body changes throughout the month. Some apps can even provide daily updates on fertile days and offer insights into how different phases of the cycle may impact mood, energy levels and overall wellbeing.

It can also be a helpful way to reflect on emotional patterns and open up communication with a partner — especially during times when emotions feel heightened or energy dips.

Knowing where you are in your cycle can make it easier to prepare for what’s coming. For example, during the luteal phase — when moodiness, sadness or irritability are more common — being aware of it can help you recognise the shift and lean into whatever helps you feel more like yourself.

Eat the right foods.

In the lead-up to and during a period, incorporating magnesium-rich foods into the diet can be a supportive choice. Foods like dark leafy greens (think spinach and kale), nuts (such as almonds and cashews), seeds (like pumpkin and chia) and even dark chocolate can all be good sources of magnesium.

Magnesium is known to help ease period-related discomfort by relaxing the uterine muscles, which may help reduce the severity of cramps and associated pain.

Tune in to your body.

Stress doesn’t just live in your head — it can influence your cycle too. Maybe your period’s a little late, your symptoms feel more intense than usual or something just feels… off.

It’s easy to miss the connection, but checking in with what else is going on — like changes to your routine, sleep or emotional load — can give you helpful clues. Noticing those shifts can make you feel more in tune with your body and more confident in how you support yourself each month.