The menstrual cycle consists of a series of monthly body changes in preparation for a possible pregnancy. Once every 21-35 days an ovary releases an egg and the hormones work to prepare the uterus for a hypothetical pregnancy. If the sperm does not fertilize the egg, the uterine lining falls off and exits the vagina. This process, which generally lasts two to seven days, constitutes menstruation. These days you may experience swelling and cramps. There are many ways to relieve pain and help you feel as comfortable as possible.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Taking Medication to Manage Cramps
Step 1. Recognize the symptoms of menstrual cramps
Usually called dysmenorrhea, they are colicky pains in the lower abdomen and are the consequence of strong uterine contractions. Many women suffer from it before and during menstruation. Symptoms include:
- Intense throbbing pain in the lower abdomen;
- Dull, constant pain in the lower abdomen area;
- Pain that radiates to the lower back and thighs
- Nausea;
- Loose stools
- Headache;
- Dizziness.
Step 2. Take some pain relievers
Start taking them at the beginning of your period or when you experience symptoms of cramps. Continue taking them for two or three days, following the directions on the leaflet (or doctor's). You can decide to stop taking it if the pain goes away. There are several types of medications that can help you relieve pain:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Brufen, Moment) or naproxen sodium (Momendol), which help relieve discomfort.
- Triaminic is a pain reliever indicated for menstrual disorders because it contains paracetamol, caffeine and pheniramine maleate (an antihistamine), it helps to reduce pain, headache and swelling.
Step 3. Take the birth control pill
If the cramps don't go away with pain relievers, see your gynecologist for a prescription for this drug. Contains hormones that prevent ovulation and reduces the severity of menstrual pain. You can take hormones in other forms as well, for example with an injection, through the subcutaneous implant in the arm, with a patch, with a vaginal ring or with an intrauterine device (IUD). These are all methods that help reduce cramps. Ask the gynecologist for the best solution for your specific case.
Step 4. Ask your doctor about other stronger options
If you don't get relief from over-the-counter pain relievers, you need to be prescribed more effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If the pains are really very severe, ask the doctor who prescribes tranexamic acid (Tranex). This medicine is indicated to reduce excessive bleeding and very painful cramps. But make sure you only take it during your period.
Part 2 of 4: Treating Cramps with Natural Remedies
Step 1. Apply heat
It can be as effective as pain relieving medications for managing cramps because it helps relax tight muscles. You can apply heat directly to the abdomen or take a warm bath. The important thing is to keep your abdominal area and chest warm. You can use the methods described below:
- Take a warm bath. Pour 0.5-1 kg of Epsom salts into the water - they help relieve pain.
- Place an electric warmer on the abdominal area.
- Use the hot water bottle. Make sure you cover it with a towel before placing it directly on your skin.
- Purchase heating bands or patches to put on your abdomen. Some brands, such as ThermaCare or Parapharma, sell these special heating bands to be applied to painful areas. You can wear them comfortably to school or work under your clothes and they offer up to 8 hours of relief.
- Fill a sock with rice or beans. If you wish, you can also add a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender or mint. Sew or tie the open end to close it tightly. Place the sock in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time and use it as a warm compress.
Step 2. Take vitamins
Vitamins E, B1 (thiamine), B6 and magnesium help to significantly relieve menstrual cramps. Read the labels to find out which vitamins are present in the foods you buy. If you find that you are not getting enough, buy healthier foods, such as salmon, or consider taking supplements. However, consult your doctor before taking any type of dietary supplement.
- Vitamin E: the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for adult women is 15 mg (22.5 IU);
- Vitamin B1: the RDA for women is 1 mg from 14 to 18 years or 1.1 mg from 19 years onwards;
- Vitamin B6: the recommended daily dose for women is 1.2 mg from 14 to 18 years and 1.3 mg from 19 to 50 years;
- Magnesium: The RDA for women is 360 mg for ages 14 to 18, 310 mg for ages 19 to 30, and 320 mg for ages 31 to 50.
Step 3. Get omega-3 fatty acids
You can get these heart-healthy elements through supplements or by eating foods that contain them. Fish, green leafy vegetables, nuts, flax seeds, and vegetable oils, such as canola, are excellent sources of omega-3s.
Step 4. Undergo acupuncture
Many experts recommend this therapy to treat menstrual pain. Acupuncture practitioners treat patients with menstrual cramps based on the excess or lack of internal vital energy, or qi, along the various meridians. When it comes to cramps, the acupuncturist usually detects a lack of qi in the liver and spleen meridians. He then inserts fine needles into the patient's body and often advises her to use herbal or dietary treatments.
Acupressure, which involves applying pressure to the same points as acupuncture, is just as effective for controlling menstrual pain
Part 3 of 4: Feeling Comfortable
Step 1. Wear comfortable clothing
The key to feeling comfortable during your period is to avoid constriction in the abdominal area. Wear pants, dresses, or shirts that aren't too tight. Do not wear modeling tights that reach to the waist, as they compress the belly. The ideal would be to wear long and loose dresses.
Step 2. Be prepared
Make sure you have enough sanitary pads, tampons and all other intimate hygiene accessories with you when you leave the house. Especially during the first years of menstruation, it would be advisable to always have a change of underwear available. You should also keep some pain reliever in your bag at all times; you will feel more comfortable knowing that you can get one in case of need.
If you have a heavy flow, go to the bathroom more frequently to check for leaks or if you need to change your tampon
Step 3. Get your favorite healthy snacks
When you're not feeling well, you can happily reward yourself with a few healthy snacks you like. Choose foods that are still in their natural state, such as a fresh banana, rather than a prepackaged fruit puree. Also, avoid foods that are too fatty, such as french fries, as they can make your malaise worse.
- Soy milk helps reduce menstrual pain.
- Eat calcium-rich foods, such as beans, almonds, spinach, and kale.
- Also opt for antioxidant-rich foods, such as blueberries, cherries, tomatoes, squash, and peppers.
Part 4 of 4: Keeping Healthy and Active
Step 1. Exercise
Studies have found that physical activity helps fight menstrual pain. Take a brisk walk, jog, or swim to relieve cramps. A little movement also helps make you feel fitter and happier.
Step 2. Avoid alcohol and tobacco
Both of these substances increase discomfort during menstruation. Alcohol causes dehydrating effects; in any case, you must never drink it when taking pain medication.
Step 3. Stay hydrated
Drink at least 9 glasses (about two liters) of plain water every day. The body loses fluids and blood during menstruation; therefore, by keeping yourself well hydrated, you will feel less weak and have more strength. You can also drink electrolyte-rich energy and sports drinks or coconut water, which help you feel better. Coconut water contains more potassium than banana and is an excellent natural source of hydration.
Step 4. Reduce Stress
Psychological tension can increase the severity of cramps. You can do yoga exercises to calm the body. Stretching is also a great way to relieve cramps.
Step 5. Be aware that menstruation is normal
Almost all women have menstruation in their life; it is an absolutely healthy natural process. You don't have to be ashamed; you can lead a normal life even during the bleeding phase. If you feel uncomfortable, talk to a trusted friend or adult woman.
Advice
- If you fear getting dirty, wear menstrual-specific underwear. It is a great solution if you have a strong flow, because it prevents stains on your pants or shorts; moreover, it is made with a breathable, safe and very comfortable fabric.
- If you wish, you can buy a specific kit for menstruation, so that you have the products always ready for any eventuality.
Warnings
- If the pains are really very severe, consult your gynecologist.
- If you have a condition that aggravates cramps, such as endometriosis or fibroids, you may need surgery to fix the problem. In severe situations, for women later in life who have already tried various solutions without success, hysterectomy, surgical removal of the uterus, may be considered; in this case, however, you should already have children or plan not to have others, since the surgery removes any possibility of pregnancy. In fact, in most cases it is not a recommended solution for young women; the gynecologist is still the best reference for obtaining the most appropriate advice for your situation.
