Are Period Cramps Killing You? Here are a Few Things You Can Do to Make it Better!

Scientific causes of period cramps and how to conquer them every month.

Every woman’s nightmare at that time of the month are period cramps. Periods are our body’s way of telling us we are not pregnant! Yay *sarcasm*.

Period cramps are throbbing or cramping pains in the lower abdomen where our uterus is. Most women get these cramps during or just before their periods. Period cramps are inconvenient for almost every woman; however, sometimes, they are deadly enough to get in the way of a woman’s entire period timespan every month. The conditions that cause period cramps are endometriosis or uterine fibroids. Period cramps usually lessen with age or after giving birth.

Here is a bit of science to help you understand why exactly we get these cramps. During menstruation, your uterus contracts to help get rid of the blood. Hormonal substances like prostaglandins are the cause of pain and inflammation. If you have extreme cramps, higher levels of these hormonal substances are the cause.

Some reasons for period cramps are:

1. Endometriosis

2. Uterine fibroids

3. Adenomyosis

4. Pelvic inflammatory disease

5. Cervical stenosis

We know how frustrating period cramps can get. So here are a few hacks to help you get through those few horrible days every month!

1. Stay hydrated you capable woman

Though this will not directly get rid of your cramps, it will help with the bloating. Bloating makes cramps feel worse than they actually are. When you know you will be getting your period, have a bottle of water ready at all times. If you cannot drink just water all the time, give it a little bit of taste with a few sprigs of mint or half a lemon. Try to reduce your sodium intake and alcohol; both of which can suck you dry of necessary hydrating elements.

2. Curb your junk cravings

We know how tempting it can be to stay in bed all day and stuff your face with junk food like chocolate and pizza. However, that is the worst thing you can do for your body during your periods. Stick to a diet that consists of whole grains, lentils, beans, vegetables, etc.

3. Avoid caffeine

When you are in a bad mood, caffeine helps. However, we are here to tell you that caffeine is not your friend during your periods. Caffeine makes cramps worse than they have to be. Do not drink soda, coffee, energy drinks, or tea.

4. Conquer your cramps with heat

Hot pads are your best friend when you have period cramps. Many stores sell disposable, rechargeable, and on-the-go heat pads so whether you are lying in bed or sitting at your desk; you’re covered.

5. Exercise

We know the last thing you want to do when you have those horrible cramps is go to the gym or go running. However, many women have observed that exercising helps relieve cramps and release endorphins that are necessary to make you feel good!

6. Give yourself a small massage

Massaging the problem area has proved to help relieve tension and boost blood flow. Get massaging a few days before your period starts. Grab an essential oil and give your tummy a rub for a few minutes every day.

7. Yoga

Again, exercising is not the first thing that enters a woman’s mind when she is on her periods. However, yoga has proved to be helpful if you do poses that focus on your core. Some poses you can try are the bridge pose, staff pose, etc.

8. Adjust your sleep schedule

If you are one of those women who get excruciating pains during your periods, then sleep might not come easy to you. However, sleeping on time and for a significant amount of time can really help with those cramps. Put on a few calming songs, give your phone a rest, and find a comfortable position.

9. Take a bath

Most other days of the month, we do not have time to relax. Which is why it is so necessary to relax when you are on your periods. Take a bath or a hot shower and relax those muscles; both physical and mental muscles.

10. Talk to your doctor

If your cramps are getting incredibly painful and make you uneasy, talk to your doctor. Do not be afraid to ask questions and get answers. Some birth control pills can help with intense cramps; however, it is necessary to get a professional opinion before you take any kind of pills.

We hope this blog was helpful. Stay strong, ladies!

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Originally published at https://www.fuzia.com.