1.Understand and acknowledge her feelings. Listen to her.

There are a lot of problems that get solved through mere conversation. Most guys think that women undergo PMS (Post Menstrual Syndrome) 24/7 while on period which is totally untrue. Dealing with the cramps and other issues women face during periods need understanding and emotional support. Maybe, just the fact that you’re listening would make her feel way better.

2. Keep track of her menstrual cycle

There is nothing worse than a woman being asked if she is on periods, both- When she is on it and when she is not. No. Not every woman who is upset or irritated is on her periods. Girls emote sans periods too. Get over it.  Also, if you keep track of her periods and help her out without her asking for it, she will feel better. The fact that you keeping track will make her feel cared for and periods will be less of a torture than they are.

3. Know that periods aren’t disgusting

Most guys want to puke when someone talks about periods or anything to do with menstruation for that matter. Guys. Period blood is same as any blood coming out of any other body part. You know what’s gross? Thinking that periods are gross. Also, do not blame anything on her periods. It’s not her choice.

4. She is NOT sick

She might be showing symptoms of a sick person but know that she is not sick. These symptoms will be there every month during her menstruation. So, do not act like she is sick because she is not.

5. Help her out, share her chores, and take over for a day.

She is dealing with a lot anyway during “that time of the month”. A little bit help would add cookie points to her love for you. This applies even when she’s off periods.

6. Surprise her with chocolates, or whatever her comfort food is!

Chocolate helps to stimulate serotonin. It’s a good thing. You could bond over a binge and some comfort food of her choice and she wouldn’t ask for more. Surprises aren’t everyone’s thing so if you don’t know what to bring, ask. Don’t be alarmed by her ability of eating the amount of her comfort food.

7. Physical comfort is the key- hugs and cuddles work like magic

Warm hugs with a fuzzy blanket and good music playing in the background with food at a hands distance. She will be head over heels in love with you, again. Trust me.

8. Suggest what comforts her but DO NOT mansplain

If she knows you know what comfort her, you’ve won half the race. I know the privilege and the years of patriarchy makes you feel entitled to mansplain but it’s a turnoff even when women are off periods. They will ask for your opinion if they want.

9. Be available sexually. Massages would be a great alternative.

Period sex is a thing. Sex might help soothe the cramps. So, be available sexually if you both want to. Massage is a good alternative only if you think you are good. A bad massage would make the situation worse.

10. Do not take anything personally

That’s it. Period.

Bonus pro tip: Know that this lasts approximate 5 days. Treat her like the queen she is and she will remember it. You never know how the favour will be returned 😉