My Luteal Phase Always Drains Me—Here’s How I’m Attempting to Address It

      One thing I thought I could escape by being in a committed relationship with another woman? The typical “Is it that time of the month?” comment when I tear up over a TikTok or initiate a disagreement about the water filter in the fridge. Yet, my girlfriend seems to dislike me the week before my period. And like clockwork, the question always arises.

      My type of PMS—which includes bloating, mood swings, and breast soreness—leads me to avoid commitments as if it were my full-time job and to boycott bras as if they're committing human rights violations (to be honest, they might be). I've spent years trying to outmaneuver it all with heating pads, supplements, and placating thoughts. This month, I'm trying something new. I'm testing out OLLY’s new Period Hero gummies, hoping they truly live up to their name.

      Why I'm Incorporating OLLY Period Hero Into My Routine

      OLLY enthusiasts, you know what I mean. I've been adding their Multi gummies to my cart on every trip to the drugstore for years. Now, my daily multivitamin has a delightful new companion.

      What I’ve always admired about OLLY is their straightforwardness: genuine ingredients, clean formulations, and no strange aftertaste. Period Hero follows suit. It's formulated with a mix of Chasteberry, Vitamin B6, and Calcium to alleviate common PMS symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, and breast tenderness.*

      I like that I can take them daily to proactively manage PMS instead of reacting in the middle of a meltdown. Just two gummies daily, and they seamlessly fit into my routine. Plus, while I usually dislike gummies that are overly sweet or artificial, these have a cranberry-raspberry flavor that is genuinely balanced and enjoyable.

      What’s Inside Period Hero (and How It Alleviates PMS Symptoms)

      The components of Period Hero aren’t trendy or merely for show; they’re evidence-based and frequently recommended by experts for managing monthly symptoms. Here are the key ingredients and their benefits:

      Chasteberry (also called Vitex)

      This herbal extract has been used for ages to promote hormonal balance. It’s especially effective in relieving breast tenderness, which many individuals face during the latter half of their cycle. Research indicates that Chasteberry helps by regulating healthy prolactin levels, a hormone associated with breast discomfort and various PMS symptoms.*

      Vitamin B6 and Calcium

      These nutrients are among the most researched in relation to PMS support. Vitamin B6 is essential for the production of neurotransmitters that affect mood, including serotonin, which is why it’s commonly used to help reduce occasional mood swings and irritability.* Meanwhile, calcium has been shown to assist the body’s natural responses to bloating and physical discomfort throughout the cycle.

      How I’m Utilizing It to Aid My Cycle

      Recently, I've been aiming for a gentler, more intentional approach to my cycle—not through a complete lifestyle change, but by incorporating small habits that provide extra support during the month. Adding OLLY Period Hero to my routine felt like one of those easy adjustments.

      I’m not expecting immediate effects or a complete transformation, but starting before the symptoms arise just seems logical. I’m equipping my body with helpful tools ahead of time (thank you, future me). Instead of eliminating things or trying to "fix" myself during my cycle, I’m concentrating on what I can introduce to feel better.

      How to Use OLLY Period Hero

      Each bottle of Period Hero contains 60 gummies, enough for a 30-day supply. Simply take two daily, ideally as part of your wellness routine. As mentioned, the cranberry-raspberry flavor is delightful, and the soft texture makes them easy to consume without that chalky vitamin sensation.

      Additional Things That Improve My Well-Being During PMS

      Everyone’s cycle is unique, but here are a few gentle adjustments I've been embracing recently:

      - Starting the day with warm lemon water

      - Replacing intense workouts with a walk or yoga when I'm feeling fatigued

      - Taking magnesium before bedtime to assist with sleep and tension

      - Politely declining plans that I lack the energy for (without guilt)

      ABOUT THE AUTHOR

      Paige Cushman, Branded Content Editor

      From small community newspapers to country music marketing, Paige has found great fulfillment in discovering and sharing the uniquely human narratives that engage an audience. As a Branded Content Editor at The Everygirl, she combines her passion for women’s issues and pop culture with her editorial skills to produce quality content for our brand partners.

      This post is sponsored by OLLY, but all opinions expressed are those of The Everygirl editorial board.

      *These statements have not been assessed by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.