WTF Things Your Body Does on Your Period (And Why)
Periods are already enough of a hassle – cramps, mood swings, the absolute betrayal of wearing white jeans. But then, on top of all that, your body decides to do some extra weird things. Like, why do your boobs hurt so much? And what’s with those random period poops?
If you’ve ever thought, “WTF is my body doing?!” while on your period, you’re not alone. Here’s a breakdown of some of the strangest (and most annoying) things your body does during your cycle—and why they happen.
1. Period Poops (Why Are They So… Intense?!)
One minute you’re fine, the next your stomach is not.
The reason: Your body releases prostaglandins (fancy name for chemicals that make your uterus contract). The problem? These little troublemakers also mess with your intestines, making everything move way faster. Hence, the dreaded period poops.
How to deal: Stay hydrated, eat fibre-rich foods, and avoid caffeine if you can, it makes things worse.
2. Your Boobs Feel Like Actual Rocks
Even putting on a bra hurts.
The reason: Hormones (again). Right before your period, estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, which causes fluid to build up in your breasts. This makes them feel swollen, heavy, and sore.
How to deal: A comfy, supportive bra can help. So can reducing salt and caffeine, which can make the swelling worse.
3. Random Clots That Look Like a Horror Movie
Nothing like a surprise chunk to make you question everything.
The reason: Clots are actually normal! Your body releases anticoagulants (which stop your blood from clotting), but if your flow is super heavy, it doesn’t have time to break everything down – hence the weird little blobs.
How to deal: If they’re small and occasional, totally fine. But if they’re really big (like bigger than a 50c coin) or happening all the time, check in with your doctor.
4. You’re Suddenly a Human Furnace
Why does your period make you feel like you’re overheating one minute and freezing the next?
The reason: Your body temperature naturally rises slightly before your period due to progesterone. So if you’re feeling warmer than usual, it’s not just you.
How to deal: Light layers are your BFF. And if you wake up sweating? Try switching to breathable pyjamas and bedsheets.
5. Cramps… But in Your Butt?!
Nobody warns you about those cramps.
The reason: Your uterus and your intestines are neighbours, and when prostaglandins make your uterus contract, they can also cause spasms in the muscles around your bum. It’s called referred pain, and yes, it’s so unfair.
How to deal: A heating pad can help ease the tension. Stretching and light movement might also make a difference.
6. Why Do You Want to Eat EVERYTHING?
It’s like your stomach is a bottomless pit.
The reason: Your hormones affect your hunger signals, making you crave carbs, sugar, and salty foods. Plus, your body is prepping for the energy drop that comes with bleeding.
How to deal: Honour the cravings, but try to balance them out with protein and healthy fats to avoid a total energy crash.
7. You Get Super Emotional Over Literally Nothing
That one puppy video? Yeah, it destroyed you.
The reason: Estrogen and serotonin (the feel-good brain chemical) take a dip right before your period, which can make you feel extra emotional, anxious, or even irritated over the smallest things.
How to deal: Don’t fight it, just ride the wave. If you’re really struggling with mood swings, getting outside for fresh air and staying hydrated can help.
8. Bloating That Makes You Feel Like a Balloon
Your jeans fit yesterday.
The reason: Estrogen causes your body to hold onto extra water and gas, which leads to that puffy, bloated feeling. Plus, progesterone slows down digestion, making things feel even worse.
How to deal: Drink lots of water, cut back on super salty foods, and wear comfy clothes (leggings and hoodies all the way).
9. You’re Suddenly a Walking Pimple Factory
Your skin was fine, and now? Breakout central.
The reason: Hormonal changes make your oil glands go wild, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts, especially around your jawline and chin.
How to deal: Stick to a gentle skincare routine with ingredients like salicylic acid, and avoid touching your face too much (easier said than done).
10. Your Period Smells… Different
Not bad, just… different.
The reason: Your period blood isn’t just blood, it’s also made up of uterine lining, mucus, and bacteria, which can give it a slightly different scent. It’s totally normal.
How to deal: Staying clean with regular pad/tampon/cup changes is all you need. No need for scented products – your vagina cleans itself!
Your Body = A Mystery, But It’s Doing Its Thing
Periods are weird, but they’re also a sign that your body is doing what it’s meant to. Even when it feels like it’s betraying you, your body is just reacting to hormones and doing its best. Hopefully, now you know why it does all these WTF things!
Need a bit more help with periods? ✨
We created The Missy Period Guide to calmly explain the real-life period questions teens ask all the time — without embarrassment or judgement.
Learn more about The Missy Period Guide