Having a painful period is very common among teen girls and young females. Generally speaking, periods will be less painful as the female grow older. In many cases, anti-inflammatory painkillers will help to ease the pain. In most cases, the reason for the period pain is not obvious. Sometimes it will be due to a problem within the pelvis, which is more common among women in the 30s or 40s.
There are two groups of by the cause: primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea.
Primary dysmenorrhea is a menstrual pain that takes place when menstruation first begins in healthy young women. This type of pain is not typically related to any specific problem with pelvic organs or the uterus. Experts think that it is related to the hormone prostaglandin (produced within the uterus) and its increased activity.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is a menstrual pain which develops later on in life, typically for women who have previously experienced normal periods. This category of period pain tends to be related to issues with the pelvic organs or uterus, including:
Around 50% women will experience menstrual cramping and around 15% have severe pain. Studies have indicated that women who don’t exercise frequently tend to get menstrual cramps which are more painful.
There are also several psychological factors including emotional stress that increase the probability of experiencing uncomfortable cramps. Other risk factors for these painful cramps can include:
For centuries, cinnamon has been a remedy for congestion associated with allergies and colds as well as an aid for digestion. It might also soothe cramps. As a bonus, the spice provides dietary fiber, iron, calcium and manganese, the last of which can help relieve menstruation symptoms.
Ginger can help with symptoms of menstrual pain as well as headaches, fluand colds. Simply grate a tiny piece of ginger before adding it to some hot water and drink it.
Papaya is full of period pain relieving nutrients such as vitamins A and C, carotene, and smaller amounts of calcium and iron. To make it even better, the fruit also has great nutritional value with low calories, which helps with digestion and improves the skin.
Sometimes poor nutrition causes deficiencies which in turn make menstruation symptoms worse. Make sure to eat plenty of foods with essential nutrients and vitamins. Below is a chart that lists several nutrients and foods containing such nutrients:
Nutrients | Food Source |
---|---|
Iron: females lose a lot of iron during menstruation. |
Chicken; leafy green vegetables; fish |
Vitamin E |
Broccoli; olive oil |
Manganese: the intake of manganese can help to ease cramps. |
Pumpkin seeds; almonds; walnuts |
Vitamin B6: supplement some vitamin B6 can help to ease bloating. |
Brown rice |
Calcium: experts suggest women between 19 and 50 get 1,000 mpg each day. |
leafy green vegetables; almonds; sesame seedsand dairy |
Note: During your menstrual cycle, aim to avoid specific foods which can lead to water retention and bloating. The most important ones to avoid include carbonated beverages, alcohol and fatty foods.
Oddly enough, drinking water can stop you from retaining water, in turn avoiding painful bloating. Hot liquids will usually help cramps as they improve the blood flow to your skin, relaxing cramped muscles. Also, try eating foods that contain plenty of water such as berries, watermelon, cucumbers, celery or lettuce.
When you reduce your caffeine intakeor cut it out completely, you can decrease tension and alleviate period pain. During your menstrual cycle, try to skip your morning coffee or tea, soda and chocolate. Better options are caffeine-free teas such as mint or ginger, or even hot water with some lemon. For your sugar fix, opt for raspberries or strawberries.
Applying heat on your lower back and abdomen can work as well as medicine. If you don’t own a heating pad or a hot water bottle, opt for a hot towel or a warm bath. You can even make your own heating pad by sewing two pieces of fabric together and filling it with rice. Microwave your heating pad for a few minutes and you are set.
When you have painful periods, exercise may be the last thing on your mind. However, when you exercise, you release endorphins and these work as a natural mood lifter and painkiller. Instead of strenuous activity, try walking or other moderate activities. As a gentle exercise, Yoga can prevent and reduce menstrual cramps as well as release endorphins. Yoga also provides relaxation and stress relief while increasing blood flow to your reproductive organs.
Most women notice a difference by treating their period pain at home. See your doctor in the following cases:
Your doctor can help you with most symptoms. You should, however, go to the emergency room if you have any of the following issues:
There are specific ways to modify your lifestyle. Here are some suggestions:
If you still experience period pain, consult your doctor. They may prescribe other home remedies such as: