Every month, a woman’s body prepares for pregnancy as part of the natural reproductive cycle. Menstruation, often known as a period, is when the uterus sheds its lining and is perhaps the most well-known aspect of this process. This is done in order to prepare the uterus for receiving and nourishing a fertilised egg. The uterus’s muscles and blood vessels stretch in order to lose its lining. These contractions might produce discomfort in the lower abdomen and back. Period cramping can affect different women in different ways. Some people have just slight discomfort, while others have significant pain that makes daily duties difficult.
5 most effective tips to get relief from cramps
Apply Heat
Because heat helps relax the muscles that contribute to cramping, applying heat to your abdomen or back can help relieve pain. Using a heating pad or bathing in a warm bath are also effective methods to relieve period pain, but heating patches offer a private, on-the-go option.
Take some pain reliever
Different types of pain medications function in different ways. NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines) are considered to be the most effective for period pain because they can lower prostaglandins, which are substances that drive contractions and cause menstrual cramps.
NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve). Just make sure to follow the directions on the package for each of these drugs.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may also help dull your pain, but it doesn’t address any of the inflammation that may be contributing to the severity of your period cramps.
Exercise
When you’re in pain, you might assume it’s better to just relax and sleep. However, physical exercise is a natural pain reliever. Exercise causes the production of endorphins, which are chemicals generated by the body that help to reduce pain perception. Furthermore, exercise is an excellent way to lower stress, which affects how you feel pain.
Take measures to reduce stress
Of course, reducing stress is easier said than done, but doing so can help you find relief from period cramps.
Here are several ways to reduce stress:
- Yoga
- Deep breathing exercises
- Meditation
- Counseling
Eat Healthy
Eating a balanced diet may also help ease period pain, since some vitamins and minerals have been proven to help minimise cramps. More study is needed, however there is some indication that vitamin B1, often known as thiamin, and magnesium may help relieve period pains. These are two vitamins and minerals that most individuals receive plenty of from a balanced diet.
