Period Cramp Relief: Heat, Comfort and What to Wear

Cramps, bloating and a long day ahead: most of us know the feeling. There's no single fix, but heat, the right protection and a few comfort habits can make a hard day easier. Here's how we'd put together a period-comfort kit from the founder-led brands we carry.

This guide is for everyday comfort, not medical advice. If your periods are very painful, very heavy or suddenly different, talk to your doctor.

1. Heat, without the heating pad

Warmth on the lower belly is one of the oldest ways to ease cramps. The trouble is that a heating pad keeps you on the couch. Sundaze Heated Shorts build the warmth into what you wear. They have heating elements on both sides and a small power bank, about half the size of a phone, that gives 2–4 hours of adjustable warmth. Sundaze says the shorts were clinically shown to reduce period pain by up to 50% without medication. Wear them under clothes or as loungewear, and they go in the washing machine.

2. Protection you can forget about

Leaks add stress to a day that's already uncomfortable. Pick protection for your flow and your plans.

• Leakproof underwear: Rif Care PFA-Free Period Underwear holds up to two regular pads' or tampons' worth and keeps you dry for up to 10 hours. It's reusable, comes in 7 sizes and is FSA and HSA eligible.
• Overnight: pair the underwear with Rif Care Hemp Organic Overnight Pads for heavy nights.
• Pads: Happy Pads Regular Day Pads are bleach-free, with soft side barriers and odor control.
• Tampons: Rif Care Organic Cotton Tampons are 100% certified organic cotton.
• Light days: Rif Care thong liners, or Femeflex Pantiless Panty Liners for leggings and dresses.

3. Comfort habits that help

• Move gently. A walk or a few stretches can ease cramping for some people.
• Stay hydrated and go easy on salty snacks if you bloat.
• Dress for comfort: soft, high-waisted layers over your heat and protection.
• Protect your sleep. Cramps and sleep don't mix. Our Sleep Care picks can help you wind down.

Build your kit

Shop everything in one place in Period Care. We pack every order in-house in Los Angeles, and orders over $40 ship free.