A Period of Pain

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1. 

   Wunmi Bakare Member

   <p>I hear your frustrations but please do not wish death upon yourself. You are a quintessential part of people&#39;s lives and you make the world better in every way possible. I&#39;m sorry that you experience a pain crisis during your menstrual cycle and that your loved ones aren&#39;t always compassionate or empathetic to your needs. Sometimes adults can&#39;t give what they don&#39;t have. It doesn&#39;t make it okay but we also can&#39;t let it consume us.<br/><br/><br/>Sickle cell is a blood disease that isn&#39;t well understood by the general public so people often struggle to offer comforting words. The next time you experience menstrual and chronic pain, try this: get a heating pad/hot water bottle, ibuprofen, water with electrolytes, lidocaine patches, music/a book/your fave TV series, and a balm. Always track your period using the Clue app. One day before the cycle, start taking your pain meds (particularly NSAIDS) before the onset of cramps/bloating, use a heating pad for additional relief, hydrate with electrolytes, stay away from sugary or carbonated drinks (they increase pain/cramping), and use distraction therapy. Watch shows or listen to music so you&#39;re not focused on the pain. <br/><br/><br/>If you need additional relief, apply the balm to your lower abdomen and lower back. Give yourself grace if you aren&#39;t as productive on certain days of your cycle. You are a woman whose body does amazing things like birth life. Hope this helps.</p>

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