Half the world has periods, so you’d think we’d have some super sweet ways of dealing with the mess, the stress, and the cramps by now. But no - all we have for you are some DIY heating pads. Well, better than nothing...

The homemade hot water bottle

Don't have a hot water bottle or heating pad? Girl, Glow’s got you covered. All you have to do is take a clean, long sock, fill it with dried beans or rice, and tie the top up into a knot. Voila! You've made your very own heating pad. (And/or your own emergency lunch ration, in a pinch). Then just pop it into the microwave for 1-2 minutes and apply to your belly or back as needed.

The furry friend hot water bottle

This hack may seem a bit hacky, but if you’re a pet owner, have your pup or cat curl up on your stomach and you’ll wind up feeling a bit better. Great for anyone with a fur baby. Works less well with pet frogs/turtles/goldfish.

Drink up

Apple cider vinegar might be one of the best kept secrets when it comes to reducing period pains. All you have to do is add a teaspoon of it to warm water and then drink up. Extra bonus: it also helps with nausea, too.

Staying so fresh and so clean

Just because you're surfing the crimson, it doesn't mean that feeling fresh down there is impossible. At each tampon or pad change, you can freshen up by wetting a paper towel or tissue with water and wiping down (always front to back). Just to keep things clean and get you back to your earlier, fresh condition (think of it as a Zamboni for your vagina. Or don’t think of it that way because yes, fine, the imagery’s a little weird.) But anyway, boom, you never have to worry about period odor again.

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