How to Manage Your Period on Your Wedding Day – Experts Advice
A wedding is one of the most meticulously planned events in a person’s life, yet some things remain beyond control—like an unexpected period.
Even with careful tracking, menstrual cycles can shift due to stress, travel, or hormonal fluctuations, sometimes arriving on the very day of the wedding or anniversary.
However, health experts reassure brides that this is no cause for alarm. Renowned Ugandan pediatrician and adolescent health specialist Dr. Sabrina Kitaka (MD, PhD) offers practical guidance on how to navigate this situation smoothly and keep the focus on the celebration.
Planning Ahead for the Unexpected
Dr. Kitaka emphasises the importance of preparation, advising brides to keep sanitary products on hand even if they are not expecting their period. “Sometimes, you may just need to take extra precautions and wear a sanitary towel for safety measures,” she notes.
Additionally, brides should inform a trusted member of their bridal party in case assistance is needed. “Let your wedding entourage know so they can help you slip away to freshen up if necessary,” Dr. Kitaka advises.
Managing Stress and Hormonal Changes
Stress is a well-known factor that can trigger irregular bleeding, and wedding planning can be emotionally overwhelming. Dr. Kitaka encourages brides to find ways to relax in the days leading up to the wedding, whether through meditation, light exercise, or talking to close friends.
For those looking to delay their period, hormonal contraceptives are an option. However, she cautions that even these methods are not foolproof. “There are now plenty of ways to delay your period, for example, with hormonal pills, but even then, breakthrough bleeding can happen,” she explains.
Keeping Perspective
While an unexpected period can be frustrating, Dr. Kitaka reassures brides that it does not have to overshadow their special day.
“Between dancing, making speeches, serving guests, eating amazing food, and marrying the love of your life, you’ll have plenty of other things to think about,” she says.
Ultimately, the key to handling the situation is preparation, a supportive bridal party, and a positive mindset. As Dr. Kitaka puts it, “Your period doesn’t need to play a big role in your wedding—after all, you’ve lived through it many times before, and you’ll get through it again.”
