Most women get cramps in their lower abdomen during menstruation, but the pain can also travel to the upper thighs, lower back, or groin. Pain or discomfort may result from these contractions. They are commonly referred to as cramps.
In this article, we will explore how to get rid of menstrual cramps with practical solutions and why they occur in the first place. Such cramps are typically more unpleasant in the early stages of a period and tend to improve as menstruation progresses.
Keep reading for detailed insight!
Menstrual cramps can be relieved with a variety of natural therapies, such as the following:
1. Applying Heat to Your Abdomen
To relax your muscles and relieve your cramps, press a heating pad or hot water bottle against the abdomen. Heat promotes relaxation in the uterine muscles and surrounding tissues, which may lessen discomfort and cramping.
Back discomfort can also be relieved by applying a heating pad to the lower back. Another alternative to soothe the muscles in your legs, back, and abdomen is to take a warm bath.
2. Massage Your Abdomen with Essential Oils
Getting an oil massage or massaging the abdomen on your own can relax the pelvic muscles and lessen cramps. To aid with this process, people may decide to apply body lotion, massage oil, or coconut oil to their skin gently.
Using essential oils to massage the belly may offer an extra advantage. An individual may be able to control cramp symptoms by using the following oils:
● Lavender oil
● Rose oil
● Peppermint oil
● Ginger oil
For an efficient abdominal self-massage, people can try mixing a few drops of any one of the aforementioned oils with another carrier oil.
3. OTC (Over-the-Counter) Drugs
For menstruation discomfort and heavy bleeding, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are the main pain relievers. NSAIDs consist of:
● Aleve
● Aspirin
● Ibuprofen
Menstrual cramps, discomfort, and inflammation can all be reduced with these drugs. Following the dosage instructions on the container is crucial, and if the suggested amount is not enough to ease period cramps, consult a physician.
4. Get Some Light Exercise
Exercise may relieve discomfort, even though it may be the last thing that many individuals want to do when they have menstrual cramps.
A person experiencing pain may benefit more from moderate stretching, yoga, or a walk than from strenuous exercise. Endorphins, which are nature's own natural painkillers, are also released during exercise.
5. Achieve Orgasm
Menstrual cramps may be mitigated by having an orgasm. The uterus contracts and then relaxes during an orgasm, reducing menstrual contractions.
Similar to exercise, orgasms release endorphins and other pain-relieving substances, which contribute to a positive mood.
6. Consider Altering Your Diet
Menstrual cramps may be lessened by making dietary adjustments. Consuming a well-rounded diet full of the following nutrients may support the body's continued health:
● Fruits & vegetables
● Omega-3 fatty acids
● Nuts
● Whole grains
● Lean proteins
In addition to keeping the body hydrated, increasing fluid consumption may also help ease menstrual cramps. Muscle cramps are frequently caused by dehydration. Additionally, menstrual cramps can be brought on by hormonal changes that impact the digestive system.
These symptoms are frequently relieved by temporary dietary adjustments. Making a fibre-rich diet a priority can aid in better digestion and reduce discomfort in the abdomen.
7. Avoid Particular Foods
Avoiding meals that make you bloated and retain water during your period can be beneficial. Among the most egregious offenders are:
● Foods high in fat
● Coffee
● Fizzy drinks
● Alcohol
● Sodium-rich foods
Reducing or eliminating these particular foods can reduce tension and cramps. Try calming teas made with ginger mint or lemon-flavoured hot water. Also, consider munching on fruits like raspberries or strawberries when you want a sugar fix.
Menstrual cramps occur when your uterus contracts due to a substance called prostaglandin. Your uterus contracts harder during menstruation because prostaglandin levels rise during this time. This results in the pain and cramps you experience.
The fluid and tissue that exits your vagina throughout your period is called the uterine lining, and these contractions aid in its removal. Just before the onset of menstruation, prostaglandin levels increase. After having your period, levels drop, which is why cramps usually go away after a few days.
Other than interfering with daily life, menstrual cramps often don't create any problems. However, difficulties may arise if a health issue is resulting in painful periods.
For instance, ectopic pregnancy or infertility might result from diseases like pelvic inflammation or endometriosis. To rule out a deeper cause of your period discomfort, you must see a healthcare professional.
It may be useful to record your periods and the days when your discomfort is the worst so you can let your doctor know. A medical professional will likely ask you the following:
● When you first began getting your menstrual period
● Whether you are sexually active
● For how long do the symptoms last
● Whether severe pain and cramping keep you from working or studying
● Whether other members of your family have period problems
The answers you give will indicate whether you need treatment or not. You should also record any other symptoms, such as headaches or heavy bleeding.