Besides keeping leaks under control, there are many other problems that crop up around period time. Here are some less exciting menstruation moments:

Problem: Cramps
Heather from "Help me Heather" says: Cramps happen when your body produces hormones called prostaglandins that help your uterine muscles push the menstrual blood out of your body. Younger women with dysmenorrhea (the medical name for "painful cramps") produce more prostaglandins than women who don't have painful periods.

Stress usually makes cramps worse. Taking ibuprofen (available in over-the-counter pain relievers) before you expect the cramps and headaches might be helpful, as well as exercise, deep breathing and/or other relaxation techniques.

Some natural remedies that work for some but not all women include raspberry leaf tea, cramp bark tea, vitamin B6, vitamin E, calcium supplements and evening primrose oil (an herbal supplement). Soaking in a warm bath or applying heat to your stomach or lower back can help you get through the tough parts, too.

However, if your cramps continue to cause extreme pain, then you should probably see your doctor. A doctor can give you a pelvic exam and other tests to determine what's going on--and, if need be, prescribe stronger pain relief medications than the ones available over the counter. Also, the "pill" has been known to reduce painful cramps. Sometimes a woman will take the "pill" even if she is not sexually active just to relieve the unpleasant aspects of her period.

Problem: Bloating
Bloating is a common problem. According to experts, one out of two women will feel bloated the week before their period. But, not to worry, the feeling will soon pass. In the meantime, it's important to watch your diet and stay away from salt. Salt causes water retention in your breasts and stomach. You should also keep physically active and drink lots of water. In less than a week, you should be back to normal.

Problem: Sore Breasts
Since your body is producing a lot of hormones during your monthly cycle, it's normal for your breasts to feel tender or sore, especially a week before your period arrives. Unfortunately, there's not much you can do except drink lots of water, lay off the caffeine and stay active.

Problem: Back Pain
Back pain is another common problem. Taking ibuprofen (available over-the-counter) can help alleviate some of the pain. You also might want to try using a heating pad or taking a hot bath. And if you're on the go, they now make disposable heating pads that stick to your body. Check the drug store for those.

Problem: Emotional Ups and Downs
During your period, you may feel like an emotional mess. For example, things that would normally not upset you have you crying for no reason. This is mostly due to hormones. Though it may not be physically obvious, your body is working at full speed and your hormones may be rising or falling rapidly, depending on where you are in your cycle.

The bad news is that there really is nothing to be done, except let it out. Cry if you need to. Scream, shout, stomp your feet. Then apologize to those who got in the way.

Problem: Acne
Does your face seem to break out the week before your period? If so, you're not alone. The week before your period, the oil ducts under your skin are fully open and ready to work their magic. While there's nothing extra special you can do to avoid some red bumps, washing your face regularly should keep those suckers at bay.

Problem: Sleeplessness
Cramps, bloating and general tummy trouble are only some of the reasons you may lose sleep during your period. If these problems continue to bother you after you turn out the lights, try a heating pad or taking a pain reliever. Also, make sure you're drinking plenty of fluid and getting enough exercise.

Problem: Changes in Appetite
Some women crave chocolate, while others can hardly eat anything at all. Once again, it's your hormones are at work and it's natural to experience changes in your appetite. Just know that eventually your period will end and so will those weird eating habits.