Blog post:
As women, we all go through the monthly cycle of menstruation. Some of us have a smooth and painless experience, while others may experience a rollercoaster of emotions and physical symptoms. One thing that can help us better understand our menstrual cycle is keeping a period diary. In this blog post, I will take you through a month-by-month breakdown of my own period diary and share my personal experiences, thoughts, and tips.
Month 1: January
My period usually starts around the first week of the month, and January was no exception. I marked the start date in my diary and immediately started tracking my symptoms. The first few days were relatively light, with some cramping and bloating. However, as the flow became heavier, I experienced more intense cramps, fatigue, and mood swings. To manage these symptoms, I made sure to drink plenty of water, take over-the-counter pain medication, and use a heating pad for my cramps.
Month 2: February
February brought along a new set of challenges for me. As I approached my period, I noticed that I was feeling more irritable and emotional than usual. I also experienced intense cravings, especially for chocolate and salty snacks. To curb these cravings, I made sure to have healthy snacks readily available and gave myself permission to indulge in moderation. Additionally, I started incorporating some light exercises, such as yoga and walking, to help with my mood swings.
Month 3: March
March was a tough month for me. My period was delayed by a few days, which caused me to worry and stress. I tracked my symptoms, and they were similar to previous months, but the irregularity of my cycle added to my anxiety. To cope with the stress, I tried to relax by taking warm baths, listening to calming music, and practicing deep breathing exercises. My period eventually arrived, and I learned to be more patient and understanding with my body.
Month 4: April
I was relieved to see that my period was back on track in April. However, I noticed that my flow was lighter than usual, and I experienced more bloating and headaches. After doing some research, I learned that this could be due to changes in my diet and stress levels. I made an effort to eat healthier and incorporate stress-reducing activities into my daily routine, such as meditation and journaling. These changes helped alleviate my symptoms, and I felt more in control of my body.
Month 5: May
May was a month of surprises for me. My period arrived earlier than expected, catching me off guard. I also noticed that my flow was heavier than usual, and I experienced more intense cramps. This sudden change could have been due to various factors, such as stress, hormonal fluctuations, or even changes in my sleep patterns. To manage my symptoms, I made sure to prioritize my sleep, reduce my stress levels, and take breaks when needed.
Month 6: June
June was a relatively smooth month for me. My period arrived on schedule, and my symptoms were manageable. However, I did experience some breakouts on my skin, which I attributed to hormonal changes. To address this, I made sure to cleanse my face regularly, use a gentle exfoliator, and incorporate more fruits and vegetables into my diet. These changes helped clear up my skin, and I felt more confident and comfortable during my period.

Inside My Period Diary: A Month-by-Month Breakdown
Month 7: July
July was a busy month for me, with work, social events, and travel. However, my period did not wait for my schedule to clear up. I experienced cramps, bloating, and fatigue while trying to keep up with my hectic schedule. To cope, I made sure to prioritize my self-care and allow myself to rest when needed. I also learned the importance of setting boundaries and saying no to tasks that would add more stress to my already busy life.
Month 8: August
In August, my period came with a vengeance. I experienced intense cramps, heavy flow, and mood swings that affected my daily life. I also noticed that I was feeling more anxious and depressed than usual. After talking to my doctor, I learned that these could be symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). My doctor prescribed medication, and I also started therapy to help manage my symptoms. It was a challenging month, but I learned the importance of seeking help and taking care of my mental health.
Month 9: September
September was a turning point for me. My period arrived on schedule, and my symptoms were more manageable. I also noticed that my mood swings were less severe, and I experienced more energy and motivation. After discussing with my doctor, I learned that this could be due to the changes I made in my lifestyle, such as exercising regularly, eating healthier, and practicing self-care. I also started practicing mindfulness, which helped me become more in tune with my body and emotions.
Month 10: October
October was a month of reflection for me. As I looked back at my period diary, I noticed that my symptoms and experiences were not always the same. Some months were more challenging than others, and that’s okay. I also learned that my period is not just about the physical symptoms, but also about my mental and emotional well-being. I made a conscious effort to be kinder to myself and practice self-compassion during my period.
Month 11: November
November brought along some changes in my period. I noticed that my flow was lighter than usual, and I experienced fewer cramps and mood swings. However, I also noticed that my period lasted longer than usual. After researching, I learned that this could be due to changes in my hormone levels, stress, or even changes in my birth control. I made an appointment with my doctor to discuss these changes and make adjustments to my birth control to manage my period better.
Month 12: December
As I reached the end of the year, I felt proud of myself for keeping up with my period diary for a whole year. I noticed that my period had become more predictable, and I was more in tune with my body. I also learned that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and seeking help when needed can make a significant difference in how I experience my period. I ended the year feeling more confident, empowered, and in control of my menstrual cycle.
In conclusion, keeping a period diary can be a helpful tool in understanding our menstrual cycle and managing our symptoms. Through my own experience, I learned that our bodies are unique, and our periods may not always be the same. However, by tracking our symptoms, making lifestyle changes, and seeking help when needed, we can have a more positive and comfortable period experience.
Summary:
In this blog post, the author takes us through a month-by-month breakdown of her period diary and shares her personal experiences, thoughts, and tips. From dealing with intense cravings and mood swings to managing stress and seeking help for PMDD, the author shows the ups and downs of her menstrual cycle. Through her journey, she highlights the importance of tracking symptoms, making lifestyle changes, and prioritizing self-care to have a more positive and comfortable period experience.




