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Waiting for your period to start can feel frustrating, especially if your cycle is unpredictable or delayed. Whether you have an upcoming special event or want to feel more in control of your body, there are natural ways to make your period come faster. From specific foods to bring on periods early to lifestyle changes to make cramps more bearable, you may be able to regulate your cycle naturally.
Menstruation begins after the luteal phase, which is the second half of your menstrual cycle. During this phase, the hormone progesterone peaks to prepare the uterus for a potential pregnancy, but if no fertilization occurs, progesterone levels drop, signaling the shedding of the uterine lining — this is your period.
Many have been curious about inducing periods, from scientists to nutrition experts to regular people just getting through shark week. In spite of that interest, there is little scientific research on whether food can or cannot induce periods.
Thus, many people tend to look at period triggers as a menstrual myth. However, there is much anecdotal evidence and cultural practices that seem to point to the possibility of inducing your period. This depends on your body, though, so it’s best to take the information with a grain of salt.
For some, it can seem like an odd job to induce your period when it usually entails mood swings and cramps. If anything, people may prefer to delay their menstrual cycle or omit it altogether. But in reality, it can be good to get your period early.
Here are some reasons that may resonate with you:
As a prelude, it’s crucial to have a balanced diet. Not getting enough vitamins, minerals and nutrients can delay your period. In the event of missing your menstruation, consult a doctor or dietician regarding the matter.
There are certain food ingredients that people have preached as a period-inducing snack or drink.
Papaya is a rich source of Vitamin C, the most important carotenoid, with a reputation as a food to bring on your period. While there is no direct evidence, papaya can supposedly help with regulating menstrual flow. Research also points to the fruit’s anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
Citrus fruits deserve a mention when it comes to vitamin C. Try to incorporate a few slices of lemon, oranges, and limes into your dishes and drinks. You can also enjoy them as they are or with some salt. Doing so may lead to Aunt Flo coming a few days earlier than usual.
Certain berries like raspberry can help with treating PMS cramps and nausea. Some also use it as a uterine tonic to alleviate the pain experienced when in labor. Since it has quite an impact on your reproductive health, this ingredient is suggested to help with triggering your period.
Parsley is an infamous garnish, but there’s more to this plant than meets the eye. When steeped in a cup of hot water, you can brew a natural remedy tea packed with antioxidants. Parsley tea can be useful for better menstrual flow and hormonal balance.
Drinking ginger tea is known in alternative medicine for removing throat swells. There is also a possibility that it can help with internal inflammation. Direct consumption of this root can help regulate your uterine muscles and trigger menstruation.
A glass of beetroot juice is linked to easing up dysmenorrhea symptoms like painful uterus contractions. They are also high in iron and magnesium, which are essential for improving blood flow in the body.
Pineapple is often associated with sexual health, specifically to detoxify one’s fluids and boost libido. It’s believed to improve blood flow in the body. This all-around fruit also fills up one-third of your recommended vitamin C intake, making it a reasonable contender regarding period-inducing food options.
A study finds sesame effective in inducing menstrual bleeding in spite of oligomenorrhea. This is a condition where you only have four to nine periods per year. Plus, if you do get your period, a blend of turmeric, boswellia and sesame can provide pain relief.
Speaking of turmeric, food with a little more heat may be linked to getting your period early. If you have the opportunity, try to use more spices. Paprika seasoning for your meals and dashes of cinnamon on your beverages should work. You can also try incorporating cayenne together with ginger and lemon for the ultimate wellness shot.
Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar advises drinking sugarcane juice a week before menstruation. This is especially the case when they experience spotting. In the same post, she also details that it’s a fertility booster that can help with sperm quality and lactation.
Mango may seem less popular than citrus fruits and pineapple, but it also provides quite a bit of Vitamin C. Their sweetness also melds well together with chili powder and lime juice. Potentially get your period early and enjoy a sweet and spicy snack in the process.
While food can play a role in regulating your menstrual cycle, there are other natural remedies you can try to encourage your period to arrive sooner.
Engaging in moderate movement can regulate hormones and reduce stress, both of which may influence your cycle. Gentle exercises like yoga or walking can relax your body, while more intense workouts can increase blood circulation.
Soaking in a warm bath or using a heating pad on your lower abdomen can relax the uterine muscles and increase blood flow, potentially prompting your period to start.
High stress levels can delay your period due to the disruption of hormonal balance. Practicing mindfulness, meditating, removing yourself from stressful situations or doing activities you enjoy can help lower cortisol levels and encourage your cycle to normalize.
Balanced nutrition, adequate sleep and hydration can all support hormonal health, which may help your period stay on track.
These methods aren’t guaranteed, but they can complement dietary changes and contribute to a healthier, more regular menstrual cycle.
Dealing with period cramps can be frustrating, but there are several remedies that may ease the discomfort.
There are plenty of yoga workouts online to help with period cramps, allowing you to move your body gentle and trigger endorphin release.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=4JaCcp39iVI
While no method can guarantee instant results, a combination of targeted foods, lifestyle tweaks and self-care practices can support a healthier, more regular menstrual cycle. Your body works on its own timeline, and small changes can make a big difference. If irregular cycles persist, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a professional.
Originally published March 12, 2024. Updated January 23, 2025.
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