11 Products to Help Make Your Period More Tolerable

If you suffer from cramps or endometriosis, this underwear can help soothe pain throughout the day. Whether you want to cool or heat the pack, you can slip it discreetly into underwear so it’s held against your lower abdomen or back. The pair also has soft seams and a liner that can hold pads and absorb occasional overflow from tampons or cups. Think of it like a traveling heating pad — when you’ve gotta leave the house, you can wear these undies to keep a constant flow of heat as you move about the day. ($39+, Nyssa)

Say goodbye to minor aches and pains. This patch has hemp extract, black cohosh, black pepper, and menthyl lactate. They release slowly over an eight- to 12-hour period, and are completely safe and THC-free. After about 20 minutes, you should start to feel relief. Many customers say they can help with cramping and pelvic/lower back pain. If you get particularly lethargic during your cycle, we suggest the B12 Awake patch. Psst..check out our full review of The Good Patch for more deets. ($16/4 pack, The Good Patch)

So you can stay fresh ‘n clean. These biodegradable ones will keep you hydrated and balanced down there. Plus, they’re plant-based, and paraben-, fragrance-, and dye-free. Keep them in your bag so you can always be prepared. ($4.95/10 pack, Rhythm)

Made to be reused, this menstrual cup is the sustainable option you’ve been waiting for. Free from latex and harmful chemicals, it can provide up to 12 hours of protection. And yes, that includes overnight wear. This one comes in two sizes depending on your flow. ($25.99, Target)

We firmly stand behind heating pads. When the cramps hit, there’s nothing we love more than warming up this pad and laying it across our lower abdomen. It’s pretty large, so it can easily reach from hip to hip. It’s also weighted, which we think has a nice calming effect. It’s filled with flax seeds and lavender buds, and you can placed it in the freezer if you prefer a cooling effect. Either way, it can calm muscle spasms. Pro tip: We fold ours before placing it in the microwave. Want something smaller and cuter? We rec this adorable uterus pad. ($33.99, Amazon)

Rael has you covered. The pads are ultra-sleek, so there's less bunching and chafing. The hourglass shape better fits underwear, and the wings help ’em stay in place. Plus, the pocket-sized tampons come in a range of absorbencies and have a BPA-free plastic applicator. Go for it. ($7, Rael)

Who could benefit from a cup? Glad you asked. This one is ideal for those with bladder sensitivities, a weak pelvic floor, or a high or low cervix. It can be worn with IUDs when directed, plus it has a lil’ finger notch so removal is easy. This one can hold up to six tampons’ worth of fluid, and can be worn day or night. It’s supposed to feel like nothing when you’re wearing it, so if you insert it and something feels off, remove it and try again. ($33, Saalt)

Time to kick those cramps and aches to the curb. This moisturizing balm is made of ginger, CBD, eucalyptus, and so many other good components that’ll soothe any body pains. All you have to do is rub it onto your pelvis or anywhere your joints are feeling worn out. It’ll melt into your skin and the ingredients will encourage muscle release and blood flow. Plus, customers with both PCOS and endometriosis have raved about how helpful it is. For even more relief, check out the brand’s CBD suppositories. Stock up now, thank yourself later. ($48, Foria)

These pads can handle a heavier flow (up to eight tampons’ worth of fluid) and should be changed once a day. Once they’re used, there’s no need to soak them. You can give them a quick rinse in cool water and then add them in with the rest of your dirty clothes. The wings snap together so the pad will stay in place as you move and groove throughout your day. If your period is lighter, go with the liners. ($19, Maisonette)

The worst part about Icy Hot is getting it all over your hands when you’re applying. Enter: this handy stick. The rolling ball keeps your hands clean, so you don’t have to deal with any lingering smells or stickiness. Just rub it over the muscles that are hurting, and relief will soon follow. ($6.54, Amazon)

Ginger has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, so it may help with period cramps and bloating. Plus, having a hot cup of tea is incredibly soothing when you’re feeling under the weather. This one is caffeine-free, so a cup at night won’t have you buzzing. ($20.88/6 pack, Amazon)