Many people experience cramps before and during their cycle. Period cramps are experienced around the uterus. Changes in your body’s hormone levels trigger these contractions. While some people just have minor cramps, others are not so fortunate. Some might find period cramps inconvenient, aggravating, and downright terrible. Menstrual cramps may be excruciatingly painful and disrupt the everyday routine in certain instances.
Although menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea, are rarely a symptom of a serious health problem, they can make life more difficult. Even if your menstrual cramps are regular, there is always something you can do to alleviate the discomfort. Here are ten tried-and-true home remedies to help you get back on track with your busy life.
- Apply heat, use a hot compress
The muscles of your uterus may be relaxed by applying a heated patch or wrap to your abdomen. Period cramps are caused by these muscles. Heat can also help to improve circulation in your abdomen, which can help to alleviate pain. One of the most effective ways to alleviate menstrual cramps is using a heating pad.
Abdominal heat patches or hot compress are available in drugstores and online. If you have no heat patch you may use a bottle or container, one that you have at home and fill it with hot water, as a substitute.
- Improving your diet
According to studies, cutting fat and increasing vegetables in your diet can help relieve monthly cramps. It’s also a good idea to stay away from foods that cause bloating, water retention, and discomfort. Period pain and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms may be reduced by eating a low-fat, vegetarian diet.
- Stay hydrated
If you’re dehydrated during your cycle, experts say you’re more likely to get abdominal cramps.
Drink at least eight glasses of water in a day. If it’s hot outside, you’ve been exercising, or you’re simply thirsty, you’ll need more.
- Take over-the-counter medication for period cramps
Menstrual cramps can be relieved by many of the same over-the-counter pain relievers as you use for headaches. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB), naproxen (Aleve), and even acetaminophen( Tylenol) are among them. When you first encounter menstrual cramps, you can take a pain reliever and continue to take it for two to three days, or until the symptoms disappear.
- Boost endorphins through exercise
Endorphins, in addition to relieving pain, can also improve the mood. Furthermore, a recent study found that low-to-medium intensity aerobic exercise can help relieve period cramp pain.
When experiencing cramps, moving around might be the last thing that you want to do but it can help raise endorphins and relieve pain. To help relieve the period cramps, try aerobic exercise and stretching.
- Massage your tummy with essential oils
According to a report published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research in May 2012, massage with certain aromatic essential oils (such as lavender essential oil, clary sage essential oil, or marjoram essential oil) can also alleviate menstrual cramp pain.
Essential oils can be purchased online or at a health food store. They may also be available at several drugstores.
According to experts, massaging your abdomen in a circular motion for five minutes the day before and after your cycle will help relieve cramps and improve circulation.
- Drink supplements
Several studies indicate that various types of dietary supplements can help relieve period cramps, but the exact mechanism is unknown. The following supplements have shown promise in minimizing period pain:
- Vitamins B-12 and fish oil
- Calcium
- Magnesium, zinc
- Drink tea varieties that can soothe period cramps
Certain teas may help relieve menstrual cramps. Experts agree there isn’t much research on herbal teas for menstrual pain relief, but teas have been used for centuries and may help because some of the herbs may act like estrogen. Before using any of the herbs, consult your doctor first, particularly if you have a history of hormone-related cancer or are taking blood-thinning medications.
- Try acupressure
Acupressure is a noninvasive Chinese medicine remedy for a variety of ailments. This procedure involves applying strong pressure to particular body parts with your fingertips to alleviate different symptoms.
Rub circles on your calf at a point above your ankle to alleviate period pain, according to a 2004 report.
10.) Take birth control pills for period cramps
If you can’t seem to get rid of your period cramps using the methods listed above, your doctor may prescribe birth control, which provides your body with hormones that may help relieve your menstrual cramps.
There should be something that works with your lifestyle and individual preferences among the many birth control choices available. Just be sure to tell your doctor that you’re looking for a birth control method that can relieve your menstrual cramps.
The bottom line is that period cramps are very common, but they can also cause problems in your daily life. Fortunately, you may take measures to alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by these annoying cramps.
If, however, your menstrual cramps are unusually severe or lasts longer than a few days, you should see your doctor or visit an online walk-in clinic Guelph. Period cramping is treatable but you need to speak to your doctor if you’re concerned about your symptoms.
