Five ways to relieve menstrual cramps

Menstrual cramps, also called dysmenorrhea, can be very painful and three out of four women experience the effects.

Here are some ways to relieve period cramps.

Exercise

This might not sound practical because you are in pain but any type of physical activity can help in easing the pain. This is due to the fact that when you exercise, your body is pumping more blood which helps to release more endorphins to counter the prostaglandins thereby reducing your cramps.

Heat

Heat helps to relax the uterine muscles that are contracting. You can use heating pads or even a hot water bottle on your abdomen and you will get some relief from the pain.

Massage

Getting a massage on your back or lower abdomen can go a long way in making you feel better when you have cramps.

You can also use some aromatic essential oils like; lavender oil or clary sage essential oil to relieve the pain faster.

The right diet

Nutritional deficiencies are one of the major causes of cramps. What you eat determines the intensity of your pain.

It is advisable to stay away from inflammatory foods like fries, processed foods, oily food, meat, flour, sugar, alcohol and animal fats in general.

Foods that contain tomatoes, olive oil, vegetables, nuts, fish, and fruits are recommended.

Pain relievers

Pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol at regular doses help to control the pain caused by cramps — in most cases.

You can start taking the drug a day before your period starts for it to work faster and more effectively.