Remedies for Painful Menstrual Cramps

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Ladies let’s be honest, none of us enjoy that particular time of the month, especially when it is accompanied by painful menstrual cramps. Unfortunately, they are often an unavoidable symptom of our monthly cycles and can be a hindrance and, in extreme cases, have a massive impact on our day to day life. Everyone experiences different levels of menstrual discomfort, but we all know how much it can get you down. It is such a very unwelcome visitor. Here are a few remedies that may be able to help you with painful menstrual cramps.

Exercise

Now I know that exercise is the very last thing you want to do when you are lying in bed in pain with menstrual cramps, but you may be surprised to know that exercise produces endorphins, which can help boost your mood. Studies have shown that exercise can help to soothe period cramps for women. So, power through and try to get involved in some exercise so you can feel the effects.

Take Pain Relief

It is important to try and combat any pain from menstrual cramping, so make sure that you make use of any available painkillers, as they will help and may make the pain more bearable. A drugstore painkiller such as ibuprofen (often known as Advil) can help decrease inflammation, which helps improve your pain levels. Additionally, you made find some pain relief medication in your local pharmacy that has been branded to target menstrual pains. Though always make sure you check with your pharmacist or doctor before taking any medication.

Herbal Remedies

There has been some evidence that suggests herbal remedies can help some women with their menstrual pain. Tea with peppermint oil is among the recommended herbal remedies. Also, CBD oil is becoming increasingly popular as a form of pain relief. It is known to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which is why it is becoming a more frequently used remedy for menstrual pains.

Heating Pads

The use of a heating pad is one of the most popular remedies for soothing menstrual pains. Applying heat to your lower back and abdomen may help to relieve pain and some studies have found it more effective than painkillers. Another way to use heat for menstrual pain is to take a hot bath. Heat therapy can help by relaxing the muscles of the uterus and easing tension and pain.

Acupuncture

Some women have tried acupuncture has a form of pain relief. It is also thought to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can further improve pain. Research has found that women who underwent acupuncture more often experienced significant improvements in menstrual-related pains and symptoms. Acupuncture may seem like a more extreme remedy to combat menstrual pain, but it is all about finding a method that works for you.

Try to Relax

Despite how difficult it can be, it is important that you try and stay relaxed when you are suffering from pain. Tensing your body will only make the pain more severe. Make sure to wear baggy clothing and avoid trousers that will press down on your abdomen. Wherever possible, put on comfortable clothes and get into bed with your heating pad, and just try relaxing. Maybe watch your favorite film or call a friend. Just try and take your mind off the pain you are in.

Change Your Diet

You should never underestimate the benefits of maintaining a healthy and well-balanced lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy diet is a key aspect to your overall wellbeing and changing or avoiding certain foods can have a massive impact on how you feel. Dieticians recommend that a low-fat,vegetable-packed diet can help monthly cramps. Healthier fats found in food such as nuts, fish, and vegetable oils are recommended for maintaining a healthy diet. It is also really important that you keep yourself hydrated and drink plenty of water.

Img source: medium.com

That time of the month isn’t easy. You will most likely find yourself go from happy smiles to floods of tears but try to remember that it won’t last forever and we have all (well us girls!) been there.

Feel free to try out some of these remedies to help reduce any pain you might feel because of menstrual cramps, but make sure that if you are finding the pain unbearable that you get in touch with your doctor. Your doctor may be able to prescribe something more suited to your needs. Just a few lifestyle changes can make a massive impact on your menstrual cramps.