Introduction
Menstrual cramps, or period cramps, are a common thing that almost every woman experiences.
Menstrual cramps, also called dysmenorrhea, happen because the uterus shrinks itself to shed the lining. While some women may have bearable menstrual cramps, others don’t.
In this article, let us discuss everything in detail about menstrual cramps, menstrual cramp pain relief, and natural remedies to relieve pain.
What are Menstrual Cramps?
Menstrual cramps refer to the pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area during menstruation.
These cramps are a result of the uterine contractions that shed the uterine lining.
While mild cramps are generally considered normal, severe, unbearable pain that interrupts day-to-day activities might be an underlying condition that requires medical attention.
Symptoms of Menstrual Cramps
The common symptoms of menstrual cramps are:
- Dull pain or throbbing in the pelvis region
- Pain in the back region
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
Causes of Menstrual Cramps
The major cause of menstrual cramps is the release of hormones called prostaglandins, which trigger uterine contractions to shed the uterine lining. Higher levels of prostaglandins can cause more intense and painful cramps.
Menstrual cramps can also happen when the uterus contraction is too strong and the blood vessels nearby are affected.
This cuts the blood flow, causing menstrual cramps. Other potential causes of menstrual cramps include:
- Fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Stress and emotional factors
Prevention of Menstrual Cramps
While it may not be possible to completely prevent menstrual cramps, there are a few measures one can take to reduce their severity, including:
- A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and exercise
- Abdomen massage
- Adequate hydration
- Supplements
- Stress management
Treatment
For treating painful period cramps, there are a lot of medication options available over the counter.
But it is important to consult with your gynecologist and get treated before taking any medicine.
The gynecologist might put you on hormone therapy if needed, which can reduce the pain.
Apart from this, the doctor might also suggest dietary supplements based on your reports.
It is important to not miss out on any medication or supplements the doctors put you in.
There are other natural remedies that one can try to relieve menstrual pain such as:
Natural Remedies for Menstrual cramp relief
A few of the best period pain remedies are:
- Heat therapy: Heat therapy refers to placing hot water bags on the abdomen, which can help relieve the pain to some extent.
- Rest: It is important to rest well and have a proper sleep schedule if the cramps are bad.
- Exercise: Exercise is the last thing that comes to mind when dealing with menstrual cramps. But exercise is a natural period pain relief medicine, and it definitely helps reduce the pain.
- Herbal teas: Herbal teas such as lavender, peppermint, chamomile, and ginger tea can relieve period pain.
- Massage: Abdomen massage with essential oils such as lavender and sage can provide relief.
Products for Period Cramp Relief
These days, there are a lot of products available on the market for period cramp relief including:
- Heating pads: Electric or microwaveable gel pads can relax the abdominal muscles and relieve pain.
- Heating patches: Similar to heating pads, heating patches that can be stuck to the abdomen are available on the market. These patches radiate heat and provide comfort for a few hours.
- Roll-ons: Roll-ons with medicated oil can be used on the abdomen area and can relieve pain.
Conclusion
Menstrual cramps are a normal part of the menstrual cycle for many women, but severe cramps during periods should not be ignored.
Remember to talk to a gynecologist and then start using any of the products or medicines for period pain treatment.
You can also try out these home remedies for menstrual cramps relief.
Book your appointments with Dr. Deepthi Jammi, the best gynecologist in Chennai. Contact Jammi scans at 7338771733.
Chennai women’s clinic is now Jammi Scans
FAQ
1. Can menstrual cramps affect fertility?
Menstrual cramps themselves typically do not affect fertility. However, if the menstrual cramps are due to some underlying health condition, it is important to consult with a gynecologist.
2. How can I stop period cramps naturally?
Some natural remedies for period cramps include heat therapy, herbal teas, and stress management.
3. Why are period cramps so painful?
The uterus contracts itself to shed the uterine lining, which causes menstrual cramps. But when the cramps are extreme and unbeatable, ensure to consult with a healthcare professional.
4. Which medicine is best for period cramps?
It is important to consult with a gynecologist before taking any over-the-counter medicine.
5. How can I relieve cramps fast?
To relieve cramps faster, apply heat to the abdomen region or take medication prescribed by the doctor.
Sipping on herbal teas such as ginger tea and chamomile tea can lower the cramps.
