dwelling on the subject of depressing symptoms, or anticipating them.
Congestion of the uterus is intensified by standing, and it is advisable, if possible, for women to sit at least part of the time during menstruation while continuing their regular work.
Exposure to cold, dampness or rain, is to be avoided at this time, as a chill upsets the physiological processes, and may bring about a premature cessation of the flow. When this occurs, it should be re-established, if possible, by a hot foot bath, drinking hot water, and obtaining complete relaxation in a warm bed where rest and perspiration should be helpful in bringing about the desired result.
Always during these periods avoid chilling the body, avoid cold tub baths and swimming, as these experiences are apt to be injurious and may lead to serious results. It is also better to postpone a hot tub bath until the menstrual flow has ceased.
Constipation is another cause of distressful menstruation. If the bowels are not evacuated regularly—that is, daily—the accumulation in the large intestine and rectum will tend to press upon the nerves supplying the generative organs and produce more or less congestion.
From every standpoint of health, the question of bowel regularity is an important one. The habit of using laxatives and purges is an unfortunate one, and makes the condition worse in the end, because the normal peristaltic action of the intestines is weakened.
The treatment for constipation should therefore be a general one, involving attention to diet, exercise and the cultivation of the regular daily habit of evacuating the bowels. The best time for this is immediately after breakfast. The
