Yes, there are secrets to managing your period. Here's how.

Thanks to our brand partner, FAB IRON

It was 10pm last Monday night when I found myself frantically scrounging for enough ingredients to make birthday cupcakes for my son to bring to daycare.

Flour was everywhere, I was googling "egg replacements" — since it turned out we had none — and I silently seethed at my husband for sitting on the couch (for the first time all day) rather than helping me out by meticulously cataloguing my son's birthday gifts.

Meanwhile, my brain was working through a list of people who are definitely mad at me and tasks I was behind on.

It wasn't until the next morning when I saw red (literally) that everything clicked. And at 34, I've been on this train for nigh on 20 years now!

Periods are... a whole experience — and I consider myself one of the lucky ones who only deals with it for a few off days each month. Whether it's the lack of focus, emotional rollercoasters or that all-too-familiar sense of feeling a bit off, our cycles are a part of life that many of us navigate for decades.

The good news? There are things that can help make that time of the month feel a little more manageable.

1. Iron out the kinks.

As you may know, throughout your monthly bleed your body loses iron along with the blood, which explains why so many of us feel tired during this time.

But here's a real kick in the ovaries: the recommended iron intake for women between the age of 19-50 is twice as much as men. No wonder dietary iron deficiency is more common among those who menstruate!

So what if we lose a little iron — what's the fuss? Well, iron plays a role in normal energy production and oxygen transport throughout your body so when levels aren't optimal, you might notice an impact on your daily activities. If this sounds familiar, an iron supplement might be worth considering after chatting with your healthcare professional.

That's where Fab Iron + Vitamin B Complex & Zinc comes in — it combines easily absorbed iron with B group vitamins that contribute to normal energy production, plus zinc, to help support your immune system.

The bottom line? It's worth having a conversation with your healthcare professional about iron supplementation if you experience ongoing tiredness during your period (especially if your bleeds are on the heavier side) — period.

(I'm sorry but that pun basically wrote itself.)

2. Movement matters.

I know, the last thing you want is to shimmy into a pair of workout leggings when you're all bloated and cranky. But movement matters when it comes to our periods because our bodies work better in motion. Don't get me wrong, cuddling up on the couch gets a big tick from me too, but you'd be surprised how far a little fresh air and a heart rate boost can go.

When it comes to premenstrual symptoms, evidence suggests movement can help reduce the usual suspects including cramps, bloating and mood swings. It also boosts endorphins, which act as natural painkillers.

While intense workouts might feel impossible, low-impact movement like walking or pilates can actually reduce cramping by improving blood flow.

My take? Always, always listen to your body and scale back intensity during the heavier flow days — just try not to abandon movement entirely.

3. Turn up the heat.

As a certified cosy girl with a proud collection of hot packs and fluffy robes, I'm pleased to share that heat therapy — think hot water bottles or warm baths — may actually help ease period discomfort.

Applying warmth can relax the uterine muscles and improve blood flow, which might explain why it feels so good when cramps hit. In fact, using a heat pack or hot water bottle on your abdomen and lower back can help relax the muscles and alleviate pain.

So, fill up that tub and let the warmth work its magic!

4. Fuel your flow.

Research also suggests anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3s may help reduce menstrual symptoms and inflammation.

You should always listen to your body and nourish it in a way that feels right for you, but if you're looking for foods to focus on, think leafy greens, fatty fish and berries to help ease period pain naturally.

Magnesium-rich foods like dark chocolate, nuts and avocados may also help reduce muscle cramps and support better sleep.

5. Chill out, girl. 

Look, I get it. "Relax" might be the last word you want to hear right now, but hear me out. Stress can worsen premenstrual symptoms, but practices like mindfulness and meditation can help. CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) has also shown promise so regular therapy sessions could be the key to smoothing out the hormonal ride.

But hey, I'm just arming you with the facts — doesn't mean you have to stop screaming into your pillow or yelling, "Girl, just dump him!" at your TV while watching MAFS.

6. Recharge and rebalance.

Need another excuse to press snooze? Your body is working harder during your period, so prioritising seven to nine hours of quality sleep isn't a luxury — it's necessary.

When it comes to your period, prioritising rest, showing yourself compassion and nurturing your precious body are probably the most important tools you have at your disposal. And remember, self-compassion includes self-advocacy so talk to your doctor if something feels "off".

Find Fab Iron + Vitamin B Complex & Zinc at your local Chemist Warehouse.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.

Feature Image: Getty.

Fab Iron is formulated to assist you when you aren't getting enough iron in your diet. It is an easy-to-absorb form of iron that is gentle on the stomach and suitable for vegetarians. The brand is available across three formats - capsules, tablets and liquid.