Navigating Chronic Pain: How Your Cycle Affects Wellness

Since being diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis in 2021, a lot has changed. I was forced to slow down and learn how to live a new lifestyle. And over the past 4 years, I’ve learned so much! Especially about myself and my body.

One of the things I focused on to understand my body and chronic pain more, was my cycle. Did my period affect my pain and how I felt? Yes, it absolutely does. I discovered how our body changes each week. I also learned how we can best take care of ourselves. This week I am feeling more down and lonely than usual, feeling more pain in my legs and hips. I checked the app that I use to track my cycle. I wasn’t surprised to see that I am in the luteal phase. The app gives me tips about the phase I am in. Today it says: “Hydrate and rest as progesterone declines; practice self-compassion to ease through this phase.”

Words of wisdom. I wanted to be out in the backyard weeding today. Weeding is difficult for me on any day. It is so challenging that I only do it a few times a year. On a day like today, in my luteal phase before my period, it would be even harder on my body. Why endure more pain?

I can make better decisions for myself now that I know more. Nowadays, I listen to my body. I have the tools to listen to my body. It’s not easy because a lot of times, the mind has its own agenda. But the body always knows. My upset stomach? That tells me to rest and sip on ginger or peppermint tea. It’s much better for me than throwing myself into a project. An anxious mind, affected by declining hormones, benefits more from meditating this week. It is better than focusing on checking off boxes on the To Do list.

Sometimes self care is simply knowledge and awareness. Notice where you are in your cycle. Listen to your body. Make decisions for yourself that are best for you.

Here are some suggestions to help your through the luteal phase:

• You may notice you are more tired than usual. Sleep more. Take naps and rest.
• It may be hard to focus from the fatigue. Don’t plan any big projects for that week if you can help it.
• You may feel less social. Take time to turn inward and journal. Read a good book.
• Learn what your body is doing during the luteal phase. This will give you a better understanding of why you feel the way you do.
• Mood swings can be common at this time. Count to 5, and get your rage out with a Rage journal.
• And most importantly PAUSE and BREATHE.