As we enter into the New Year, many of us set intentions to take better care of ourselves — so why not make one of your 2025 resolutions about prioritizing your own period care?
Whether you're looking to be more eco-friendly, reduce discomfort, or simply streamline your routine, prioritizing your menstrual health can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the month. After all, we all have period stories we'd rather not relive.
If you’re ready to embrace your cycle with more confidence and comfort, here are some thoughtful ways to prioritize your period care this year — using products that are better for both you and the planet.
1. Switch to a Sustainable Menstrual Cup
If you haven’t already, this year could be the time to make the switch to a menstrual cup like the DIVA Cup.
Menstrual cups are not only better for your health, but they’re also an eco-friendly alternative to traditional disposables. Designed to last for years, they reduce waste while providing reliable protection, even on your heaviest days.
“Menstrual cups are an excellent option for many individuals. They are safe, easy to use, and offer up to 12 hours of leak-free protection,” Dr. Jane Smith, a menstrual health expert explains, “Many people find that they feel more comfortable and confident during their cycle when using a menstrual cup.”
The DIVA Cup, for example, is made from medical-grade silicone and comes in three sizes to cater to your body’s needs: the DIVA™ Cup Model 0 for first-time users or slim vaginal canals, the DIVA™ Cup Model 1 for folks who have used a menstrual cup before and the DIVA™ Cup Model 2 for those who have wider vaginal canals or are postpartum.
Whether you have a light flow or a heavier one, there’s a cup for you. It can also be worn day and night, offering you the freedom to live your life without constant worry about leaks or running out of products.
2. Track your cycle for better period care
Understanding your cycle is key to feeling more in control and confident during your period. Many apps and wearable devices can help track your period, fertility, and even mood fluctuations. By tracking your cycle, you can anticipate when your period will arrive, how heavy your flow will be, and how you might feel emotionally, helping you plan ahead.
“Tracking your cycle helps you make proactive choices about your period care. You’ll be able to choose the best products and even adjust your self-care routine based on how your body is feeling,” says Dr. Smith.
Consider using a cycle-tracking app or even a physical journal to log your symptoms and product preferences. Over time, this habit can help you recognize patterns and gain better insights into your menstrual health.
3. Embrace a holistic approach
Your period is part of a larger picture of well-being, so it’s important to take care of your body in a holistic way. This could mean eating nourishing foods, staying hydrated, practicing mindfulness, or trying natural remedies for common period symptoms like cramps or bloating.
Many people find that incorporating heat therapy (like a warm compress or heating pad) or yoga into their routine helps ease discomfort and reduces stress. Certain foods, like leafy greens, nuts, and anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric, may also help manage pain and boost your overall energy levels.
Dr. Smith advises, “Addressing period discomfort doesn’t have to be all about product choices. The way we eat, sleep, and manage stress can have a huge impact on how we feel during our cycle. A holistic approach is often the most effective.”
4. Invest in period-proof underwear
For ultimate peace of mind, period-proof underwear can complement your menstrual cup or pad. These underwear are designed to absorb menstrual blood and prevent leaks, offering another level of protection, especially during overnight hours or on lighter days.
Many people find that period-proof underwear adds an extra layer of confidence, knowing they can wear what they want without fear of leaks.
Look for brands that prioritize comfort, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties, such as DIVA’s period underwear, that are reusable and come in four different sizes. They’re also:
- Ultra comfort with silky, seamless, 4-way stretch fabric
- Long-wear freshness with DryTec™ for moisture and odor control
- High absorbency leak protection that holds up to 9 regular tampons of flow
- Sustainably made with recycled fabric
- Made without added PFAS
5. Create a personalized period care kit
One of the best ways to make sure you’re always prepared for your period is to curate your own period care kit. A well-stocked kit includes everything you might need during your cycle, from your menstrual cup or a menstrual disc, to period-proof underwear, and even snacks or pain relief remedies you know work for you.
“Being proactive about period care can help you feel more in control,” Dr. Smith shares. “When you have a care kit ready to go, you’re less likely to feel stressed or caught off guard when your period arrives.”
6. Go digital with menstrual education
The New Year is also a great time to educate yourself about your menstrual health. There’s so much information available at our fingertips, from podcasts and blogs to online courses and webinars.
At DIVA, we give our best science-backed, expert-approved period education through our blog: Conscious Cycle. By learning more about your body and your cycle, you can make informed choices about your period care.
“The more informed we are, the more empowered we become in making decisions about our health,” says Dr. Smith. “Knowledge is truly power.”
7. Give yourself permission to rest
Finally, don’t forget the importance of rest. The four phases of your menstrual cycle can be draining, both physically and emotionally, so make sure to listen to your body. Take breaks when needed, incorporate relaxation into your daily routine, and remember that it’s okay to slow down during your period.
“Self-care isn’t just about the products you use, but also how you care for yourself holistically during your cycle,” says Dr. Smith. “Allowing yourself to rest and recharge is just as important as having the right tools for your period.”
This New Year, prioritize your period care — with the right products and mindset, your period care routine can become even easier in 2025.
