Top 5 Ways to Manage Menstrual Pain

Posted August 02, 2021 in Menstrual Pain

2 Minute Read: 

Menstrual pain can be inconvenient for many women and even make it difficult to go to work or school. 

Your uterus contracts to shed the uterine lining during your period, causing discomfort in the lower back, stomach, groin, or upper thighs. Dealing with the painful cramps every month can be frustrating.

Luckily, many home treatment methods can help you ease cramps and make life more manageable during this time of the month. 

Some of the Most Common Remedies Include:

Heating Pad

Putting a heating pad (set on low) or a hot water bottle on your belly can relax your muscles and improve blood flow, relieving tension in the area. 

Many drugstores carry a variety of choices if you are on the go.

Over-the-Counter Pain Medication

Over-the-counter pain medicine, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can bring much-needed relief. These drugs address the pain by lowering your body’s production of prostaglandin. 

To stay ahead of the pain, women are advised to take the recommended dose of the pain medication before the pain gets bad or the day before the period starts.

Taking a Hot Bath

Soaking in a hot bath can relieve your period cramps just as effectively as using pain medicine. So go ahead and fill that tub and settle in with your favorite magazine, book, or hot chocolate. A warm shower can be equally soothing too. 

You want to keep the heat as continuous as possible, so consider getting your heating pad ready once you step out of your warm bath.

Sex

Science suggests that having an orgasm helps with period pain. It all has to do with endorphins that make you feel good, helping to relieve the pain symptoms.

Exercise

Physical activity, just as sex, releases endorphins helping to ease menstrual cramps for some women. Don’t be afraid to jump on the treadmill or go for that morning run. 

Relaxation techniques, such as yoga, stretching, and meditation, have also been found to lessen cramping.

What Should You Avoid During Your Period?

While the above-mentioned ways help relieve pain, there are also a few things that could worsen the situation. Among the things to keep to a minimum include alcohol, caffeine, salty foods, and stress. 

Make sure you limit these as much as possible during that time of the month.

Do I Need to See a Doctor?

If you can’t get enough relief even after these home interventions, consider talking to your doctor. Painful period cramping is treatable, so whenever you feel that your symptoms are unusual or severe, it’s always a good idea to speak to a health professional.

Is Your Menstrual Pain Abnormal?

Feel free to contact us at 707-575-1626 or fill our online form to schedule a consultation with Dr. Emad and Dr. Logan if you are concerned about your menstrual pain. We will review your menstrual history, perform exams, and even recommend lifestyle modifications or medication to help relieve your painful periods. Talk to us today.