This is the best position to sleep in when you’re on your period

Experts have revealed that this is the optimum sleeping position if you're on your period

Periods can, quite literally, be a bloody nightmare. Especially when it comes to getting a decent night’s sleep.

Do you set your alarm for an ungodly hour to change your tampon, or do you deal with the hassle and discomfort of an Always extra thick overnight pad? And if you’re suffering from a bad case of cramps then you may as well cry away the thought of peacefully drifting off into the land of nod. Especially as we still don't have a cure for period pain, despite the fact they can be as painful as a heart attack.

Thankfully, experts have revealed that sleeping in the foetal position is the best way to ensure a good night’s sleep when mother nature comes knocking on your door.

By sleeping on one side with your legs tucked up next to your stomach, the foetal position “takes pressure off the abdominal muscles,” gynaecologist Lisa Lindley explains to an America glossy magazine.

“Many women report that the foetal position can help relieve cramps,” adds M.D. Jennifer Wider. This is because the muscles around the abdomen are encouraged to relax, which reduces the tension and therefore the cramping.

Period-tracking app Clue have also shown that the foetal position decreases the chances over overnight leakage, as the legs are squeezed together.

Whatever you do, just make sure you avoid sleeping face-down when Aunt Flo is in town. Lying on your stomach can cause the uterus to squeeze, which can increase the amount of blood lost, warns Dr. Wider.

Well, at least now we know.