this out for my period update on me, my cramps did get a little worse and my stomach still feels weird

Ugh, cramps getting worse is the actual worst, I totally get it. It's super normal for cramps to feel different, and sometimes even stronger, especially in the first few years of having your period because your body is still figuring things out.

What to do for cramps

When my cramps are being total drama queens, here's what sometimes helps me:

• Heat pad: Seriously, it's like a warm hug for your tummy. I just plop it on and chill.
• Gentle movement: Sometimes just walking around a bit or doing some light stretches can make a difference. I know, when you just want to curl up and disappear, but it can actually help.
• Water: Staying hydrated is always a good idea, and sometimes it helps with that general weird feeling.
• Pain medicine: If it's really bothering you, you can ask a grown-up for some ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Just make sure to check with them first about how much to take.

When to tell someone

Most of the time, cramps and a weird stomach feeling are normal period stuff. But if your cramps are so bad that you can't go to school, or they're not getting better with any of these tips, or if that weird stomach feeling is actually really painful, it's always a good idea to tell a trusted grown-up. They can help you figure out if you need to see a doctor just to make sure everything's okay.