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Menstrual pain can be so severe that it has now been given a medical name by doctors – dysmenorrhea. So next time someone tells you it’s not a medical condition, you can tell them that.
According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), more than half of the women who menstruate report some discomfort from menstrual cramps every month.
While cramps are typically not a sign of a severe health problem, they may be. And they put a crimp in your lifestyle, as it’s hard to do much when you’re doubled up. Here’s how you can get rid of menses cramps at home.
What Are Menstrual Cramps?
Before and during menstruation, cramps affect many girls and women. While some suffer only mild cramps, others are not quite as fortunate. The pain from menstrual cramps can be severe in some instances.
It is considered that dysmenorrhea is caused by substances known as prostaglandins in the body. The prostaglandin level in the lining of the uterus increases before menstruation begins each month.
On the first day of your menstrual cycle, the prostaglandin level is at its peak. As your prostaglandin level declines and the lining of the uterus is shed, and pain gets better, ACOG says.
You can take steps to gain back control if period pain is cramping your style every month.
Apply Heat
It will help relax your uterus muscles by using a heated pad or wrap on your abdomen. These muscles are what cause period cramps. Heat in your abdomen will also improve circulation, which can minimize pain.
Wearing a heat cover for cramps is potentially more effective than taking an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, according to a 2004 report.
In addition to being useful in alleviating pain and cramps, the study also found less fatigue and mood swings in participants who used a heat wrap. Abdominal heat patches can be found at the local drugstore and online.
They are super easy to use. Simply peel and stick your belly with them. Electric heating pads and bottles of hot water are not as easy as patches to use. But if you spend some time at home and do not need to drive around much, they are good options.
OTC Pain Reliever
According to the ACOG, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and aspirin (Bufferin) are effective therapies for menstrual cramps. If taken at the first sign of cramps or discomfort, these drugs function best.
You can find ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin at any drugstore. If you have a medical history with your heart, liver, or kidney issues, or if you have asthma, ulcers, or bleeding disorders, be sure to speak to your doctor first.
Essential Oils
Research says that certain essential oils can help ease period cramps when massaged on the abdomen, mainly when used in a blend of oils. You can easily find oils at your nearest health food shop, at some drugstores, and online.
Due to their ability to improve circulation, oils that seem to be most effective at minimizing menstrual cramps include the following.
- Lavender
- Sage
- Rose
You’ll want to blend them with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil, before using the essential oils. Carrier oils operate by securely transporting the skin with the essential oil and distributing the oil over a wide area.
Rub a couple of drops between your hands until your oil mixture is ready to use, and then give your tummy a gentle massage.
Experts say massaging for just five minutes a day before and during your time in a circular motion may help reduce cramps and improve circulation in your abdomen.
Conclusion
Menstruation pain can be as difficult to deal with as wisdom teeth pain for some women. Speak to your healthcare professional if your discomfort interferes with your ability to move on with your day or lasts longer than two or three days.
They will help you get to the bottom of what causes your extreme cramps and propose a solution to keep the pain in check.