How To Relieve Painful Menstrual Cramps

• 22/11/2023
• 0

How To Relieve Painful Menstrual Cramps – Cramps or Dysmenorrhea or painful periods are normal but if it is unbearable then it’s time to see a doctor. There are some symptoms along with pain like fatigue, nausea, and diarrhoea. Nearly 60% of females experience mild cramps during periods and around 15% of females have painful periods that even interfere with their routine. Here, we are going to discuss “how to relieve painful menstrual cramps”. 

There is another term usually tagged along with a painful period, PMS Syndrome. Premenstrual syndrome can be described as the physical and emotional symptoms one experiences before, and during their menstrual period every month. This caused due to hormonal changes. In this, one can crave specific food items, tender and swollen breasts, bloating, swelling, pimples, upset stomach, tiredness, and cramps. Also, one can experience emotional symptoms such as crying, depression, mood swings, anger, trouble sleeping, etc. 

What is Dysmenorrhea? 

Painful menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea occurs when there is a contraction of the uterus lining shedding. 

• Primary Dysmenorrhea means pain without any indication. Monthly occurring pain with no relation to any medical condition. It may stay for 2 to 3 days during menstrual in females. One can feel pain in the lower abdomen, thighs and back. 
• Secondary Dysmenorrhea means pain due to underlying issues like endometriosis. In this, the pain stays for longer, even before the start of the period and lasts 1-2 longer usually. It is not common and one must consult the doctor. This may be due to a cyst or any other medical condition.

What are the causes of Dysmenorrhea or Painful Periods?

During the menstrual cycle, there is a high level of prostaglandin causing tightening or contractions of the uterus. This causes painful periods. However, these contractions are important for uterine shedding inner lining. At the beginning of periods, there is a high level of prostaglandin which eventually decreases as progress. 

Moreover, painful periods (secondary dysmenorrhea) can be caused due to endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical stenosis, and congenital conditions, Here are some common symptoms of painful menstrual cramps  – 

1. Pain in hips, thighs, and abdomen, and lower back 
2. Nausea 
3. Dizziness
4. Hachaches

How to Relieve Painful Menstrual Cramps?

There are multiple ways to relieve painful menstrual cramps, for instance- 

1. Taking Medicines– There are several OTC medicines available, mostly, NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). These medicines provide relief from period pain. However, it must be taken as directed. Some do suggest taking hormonal birth control pills to ease period pain. 
2. Doing Exercise – Exercise is an effective way to ease the pain. Stretching along with some exercise at home gives relief from pain. You can choose the physical activity of your choice such as walking, yoga, or even cardio. 
3. Taking Hot Bath or Heating Pad – A hot bath is beneficial during periods as it helps relax the muscles and even eases abdomen & back pain. Similarly, you can take a heating pad hot water bottle or heat patch to relieve period pain. 
4. Dietary Supplements – You can take dietary supplements after consulting the doctor, for instance, vitamin E, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, omega-3 fatty acids, etc. may relieve painful menstrual cramps. 
5. Seek Professional Help – Period pain is normal but if it causes hindrance in your daily life and experience unbearable pain. Then it is recommended to seek professional help as it may be secondary dysmenorrhea. 
6. Change in Lifestyle – Eating junk food, smoking, and consuming alcohol lead to a more painful period. It is advised to eat healthy and avoid smoking and alcohol during periods. Oily food, sugar, salty food, and meat may cause more pain during menstrual. 
7. Stress – In addition, psychological causes like stress may be the cause of period pain, So, it is highly suggested to seek healthcare advice before administering any medication and remedies. 
8. Alternative Medicine – There are alternative medicine remedies such as yoga, acupuncture, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), etc. that may be beneficial for treating period pain. 

Final Takeaway 

At last, we hope you find this information regarding “how to relieve painful menstrual cramps”. There is no doubt that period pain can be unbearable sometimes. You must seek professional help if you are experiencing a painful period even after trying all the home remedies. If you are residing in Chandigarh or nearby, we highly recommend visiting Dr Ruchi Rai Ahuja at Dr Ahuja Clinic. She is one of the best gynaecologists in Tricity. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question – What food should be avoided while on periods?

Answer – Salty, caffeine, alcohol, sugary, and red meat must be avoided while on periods.

Question – Is a painful period normal?

Answer – Periods are painful but if the pain hinders your daily routine and there is extreme pain then you must see a gynaecologist. 

Question – Can I take painkillers during my period?

Answer – Painkillers are safe but you must consult the doctor before taking any medicine during the period.