Period cramps or menstrual pain is a symptom that can be observed in every woman’s life from her adolescence till she reaches her menopause stage.
This comes every month just like everyone gets their monthly bills and more often women wonder how to get rid of period cramps.
Period cramps, if severe, can cause psychological stress, and this may lead to depression.
How To Reduce Menstrual Pain?
We can never eliminate the cramps as it’s a natural body process, but there are a few ways to reduce the menstrual cramps.
1 . Exercise:
Exercise increases blood circulation in the body. Swimming is the best way as it releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller, which gives cramps a lot of relief.
Brisk walking improves blood circulation in the pelvic area.
2. Heat Pads:
Place a hot water bottle or heat pad near your lower abdomen, and you can instantly notice a lot of relief. If you don’t have a water bottle or heat pad, just drench a towel in hot water and place it on your lower abdomen. This method will give you the same relief from the pain.
3. Calcium:
Research has shown that the more calcium we consume, the fewer our period cramps. Calcium helps in maintaining muscle tone, so the lack of calcium causes menstrual cramps too .
1200mg of calcium per day is recommended by many dieticians to keep the cramps away. Calcium also reduces water retention and improves the overall mood of the person.
So see that your minimum intake of calcium is 800mg, which is 3 cups of milk. Try consuming only natural sources for the best results.
4. Ginger:
All you need to do is boil some water and pound ginger, and sweeten the infusion with honey. Try having it often (at least 3 times) to be relieved from the pain. Have this soothing tea and get relieved from your cramps.
5. Coriander seeds:
A coriander seed is not only the best menstrual cramps remedy that reduces period cramps, but also corrects irregular menstrual cycles. It is achieved by its anti-inflammatory properties.
Boil a handful of seeds till you are left with only one cup of water, strain the liquid and drink it. Try taking this tea twice a day to get good results.
{Also Read: What are the Causes Behind Irregular Periods? }
6. Massage with essential oils:
A good massage to the affected area always relieves the pain. A soothing massage for 20 minutes helps to reduce the pain.
Acupuncture or applying pressure to a few points of the body can give a lot of relief. This technique is also effective for back pain.
Dilute your essential oil with a carrier oil and massage your abdomen for a soothing effect.
Lavender, tea tree and rosemary oils are some of the best fragrances that can be used for menstrual pain relief.
7 .Chamomile tea:
Just add two spoons of dried chamomile to water and bring it to a boil. But you have to consume this tea 10 days before the expected period of cramps. Consumption of this tea relieves the pelvic muscles, which reduces the cramps.
Try getting a dried version of chamomile rather than the tea bags, as it is believed to be more organic and natural.
What to do
- Eat loads and loads of fruits for a good supply of antioxidants, have green vegetables and concentrate more on having water-rich vegetables and fruits like watermelon, cucumber, celery, berries etc..
- Practice cardio to regulate the blood flow and it also increases the flow of endorphins, which are termed as ‘natural painkillers’. Yoga is a great option that keeps your mind and body balanced.
- Stay hydrated, not only during summer months but always.
- Hot water showers help a lot in muscle relaxation and you get a good night sleep.
- Consume fish oil or fish to reduce the hormonal imbalances in the body.
- 7 -8 hours of sleep is a must.
- Always keep some hot or cold water and a towel handy for the hot or cold pack on the lower abdomen.
What not to do
- Avoid the intake of any food that is difficult to digest.
- Avoid meats and spicy foods.
- Reduce salt intake as salt retains water in our bodies.
- Tight clothing is your enemy. Wear something through which your body can breathe, such as loose cotton clothes.
- Stay away from stress and anxiety.
Some signs to consult a gynaecologist at the earliest
- Abnormal discharge after the period, cramps.
- If cramps occur all ofa sudden.
- If you are bleeding clots for more than a day.
- If you have a severe headache and vomiting during the period cramps.
- If cramps are not allowing you to do your daily activities and cause you severe pain and depression.
Even after trying these entire how to get rid of menstrual cramps natural remedies, if you are still not getting the relief, it is always better to consult a gynaecologist. Get yourself tested with a few basic tests to keep infections at bay.
Take foods that improve your stamina and the immune system and maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is quintessential that you stay alert and sense what’s wrong with your body at the earliest to stay healthy.
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