This could be the shortest blog post of all time, because – yes of course it’s fine to wear shapewear while on your period! In fact, with the right compression you might even feel more comfortable in control briefs than without. We don’t want to short change you, though, so let’s delve into the deeper issues of shapewear, underwear and menstruation. Go on, you know you want to!
Bloating
That horrid bloating sensation always comes at the wrong time! You have a night out, an important meeting, or even a sporting fixture planned. Then you wake up with a bloated tummy and feeling sluggish. One tip is to alter your diet in the days leading up to your period. Foods that are high in potassium, like bananas or tomatoes help to prevent bloating, while natural diuretics such as cucumber and lemon juice can help to release water. For an instant boost on the morning, though, reach for your favourite pair of control pants and pair it with a determined smile!
Period Pain
Cramps can be utterly debilitating, so depending on the extent to which you suffer, compression may have a varied effect. Light compression around the tummy can ease discomfort as you go about your day. Similarly, high waisted briefs and shorts that support the back can make a real difference if you suffer particularly in the small of your back. Panelling is key here as it guides the line of your spine to refine your posture and support aching muscles. Pain is particularly horrid if it disrupts sleep. Other than painkillers, try yogic stretching before bed and sleeping with a warm or cold compress to your tummy.
Period Brain
This is all the levels of crazy that (if you’re anything like us) you may experience in the run up and duration of your period. You may find that your confidence is at rock bottom; you feel like a blob and you hate every item of clothing that you own. Or you’re extra anxious about going about what are normally day to day activities. You may catastrophise scenarios, and worry about all the things that could go wrong. We’re not going to pretend that shapewear can solve this. However, any tiny steps that you can take to feel a bit more in control can help. Yes, you might achieve this by using a foundation to smooth your silhouette. But why not try breathing exercises, a yoga routine, or going for a jog or bike ride. Taking some form of physical exercise releases endorphins that can help to stabilise the hormones that we experience during our periods.
Fluctuating size
It’s so annoying that due to period bloating and all the pesky hormones, some of us go up a whole dress size in the first couple of days of our period. We’ve looked at bloating above, but what about your bra size? Breasts often change in size and shape during while we’re menstruating. Not only this, but they can be sore too. Not the time that you want to wear a push up bra, frankly! Of course, we’re all individuals and changes vary from woman to woman. If you find that your breasts vary in size during the month, make sure that you have a good stock of bras in the correct sizes. Try non-wired or sports bra styles for those times that your boobs feel particularly tender. They are great for preventing movement that can cause aches and pains.
Period Pants
Obviously you can’t wear both. However, if period pants really work for you, there are ranges of absorbent underwear that also offer some shaping properties. The eco credentials are clear for reusable menstrual hygiene, and at Elle Courbee we support finding non-disposable solutions. For situations where you really want to wear your standard shapewear, then try using a menstrual cup if your body suits it. They’re less scary than you may think.
There’s no reason why life shouldn’t just crack on while we’re on our periods, and at Elle Courbee we’re delighted that there is such a huge variety of underwear out there to support this. The best bet is to have something in stock for every eventuality. Plus a large bar of chocolate.
The art of choosing your underwear 
