Period pain, sometimes called menstrual cramps, is one of the common problems amongst women. It makes them feel anywhere from a mild discomfort to debilitating pain. In this blog we will take a deeper dive into its cause and explore the best possible ways on how to help period pain.
Why Are Period Cramps Painful?
People often search for “how to help period pain”, as these cramps are so painful. Here are a few reasons why the pain can get so bad:
● Muscle contractions: The muscle contractions of the uterine muscles can cause significant pain.
● Inflammation: Prostaglandins also cause inflammation in the lining of the uterus, which may be a cause of some of the pain.
● Nerve stimulation: The contraction and inflammation could stimulate nerves in the pelvic area causing pain.
● Blood Vessel Spasms: Prostaglandins can also stimulate the blood vessels in the uterus to go into spasms, leading to reduced blood flow that contributes to pain.
Factors that influence severity of period cramps
Here are some factors that can affect a woman's period cramps:
● Age: The pain in periods tends to be more severe in younger women compared to older women but is not always the case.
● Genetics: A family history of painful periods makes a woman more likely to experience severe cramps.
● Menstrual cycle length: Some women with shorter menstrual cycles may have more pain.
● Hormonal imbalance: There are fluctuations in hormone levels which could affect the severity of the cramps.
● Medical conditions: In most cases, severe period pain is due to conditions such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids.
If you're experiencing severe period pain or it's interfering with your daily life, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to know how to help period pain.
How to Know If Your Period Cramping Is Normal
Identifying Normal Period Cramps
Most women feel some discomfort during their menstrual cycle. But there is also a time when your period cramps might indicate something else. Here's how you might identify normal period cramps.
● Mild or moderate pain: The ache should be tolerable and not interrupt most of your activities.
● Last for a couple of days: Your cramps should persist for a couple of days during your period.
● Responds to over-the-counter pain medication: Mild to moderate pain at the time of periods usually responds to NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen.
● Not worsening: The cramps should not be worsening over time.
Abnormal Period Cramps
● Severe pain: The pain is too intense, and it prevents you from doing any of your routine activities.
● Last longer than a few days: Cramps that continue for more than a couple of days, especially post your period, might not be normal.
● Do not relieve with over-the-counter pain relievers: If you are not getting relief from over-the-counter drugs, it may indicate a problem.
● Other symptoms: If heavy bleeding, abnormal discharge, pelvic pain outside the period, or pain during sex occur alongside cramps then it is sensible to consult a healthcare provider.
For abnormal period cramps, consult a professional healthcare provider to find out how to help period pain. A healthcare professional can diagnose whether there is an underlying cause and guide you to the right treatment.
Does Severe Period Cramps Indicate a Sign of Something Else?
Yes, severe period cramps can sometimes be a sign of something else. While some pains are normal and go along with menstruation, intensifying or persistent pain can sometimes indicate a serious underlying condition.
Here are some conditions that can cause severe pelvic cramps:
● Endometriosis: This is a condition where tissue somewhat similar to the uterine lining develops outside the uterus. This will cause pelvic pain, heavy flow, and sometimes it can lead to pain during sexual activity.
● Uterine Fibroids: This is the non-cancerous growth that can develop in the uterus. These might cause heavy flow, pelvic pressure, and pain during sex.
● Adenomyosis: A disease caused by endometrial tissue that extends into the uterine muscle wall. It results in pain in the pelvic region and causes heavy bleeding and pain.
Other potential causes of severe pelvic cramps include:
● Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): An infection of the female reproductive organs.
● Ectopic pregnancy: This is when the pregnancy occurs outside the uterus
● Ovarian cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs developed on the ovaries.
If your cramps are so severe that you lose your ability to focus on other aspects of your life, visit a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How To Help Period Pain: Get Rid Of It With Home Remedies
Over the counter medicines will make the situation a little better, but there are also numerous broad and effective home remedies through which you can deal with those painful phases.
1. Apply Heat
Heat applied to your abdomen will ease your muscles and lessen the effects of the inflammation that causes you pain. You can use a heating pad or hot water bottle or even a warm towel.
2. Exercise
Regular exercise can help diminish stress and improve overall health, like menstrual health. You may not be doing heavy exercises at that time when you are on your period, but swimming, yoga, or even a walk is feasible.
3. Get Enough Magnesium
Magnesium is an important mineral in many bodily functions including muscle relaxation. Sometimes increasing the magnesium intake may reduce cramps. Dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, or whole grains are examples of foods that contain magnesium.
4. Go for Ginger
Ginger is an anti-inflammatory that can reduce pain and the can also reduce the inflammation itself. It is available in different forms: ginger tea, ginger ale, or it can be used as supplements.
5. Increase Your Omega-3 Levels
Omega-3 has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce period pain. Incorporate foods rich in omega3 into your diet such as fatty fishes, salmon, mackerel, sardines, or flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
6. Massage with Essential Oils
Some essential oils like lavender, clary sage, and peppermint contain pain-relieving properties. Therefore, it can be applied in the form of a massage oil using a carrier like coconut or almond oil on the abdomen.
7. Consider Dietary Changes
Dietary and lifestyle changes can help in getting relief from period pain. The symptoms are worsened by junk foods, caffeine, and alcohol. So, ensure that a lot of whole foods, fruits, and vegetables are a part of your diet.
8. Try Yoga Poses
Doing yoga can help eliminate stress, stretch the body, and alleviate cramps. So, yoga is often recommended to women suffering with period pain. Some popular yoga poses include child's pose, cat-cow pose, and seated forward fold.
9. Acupressure
Acupressure is applying pressure to the specific points on the body to help pain. One of the most useful points in treatment of menstrual cramps can be Spleen 6 (SP6), one lying on the inner part of the lower leg, and another such point is Hegu, which is between the thumb and index finger.
10. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a Chinese traditional medication method that involves injections into body points with fine needles. This treatment can restore energy flow and even eliminate pain.
Seek medical consultation to find out other ways on how to help period pain in case your menstrual cramps are particularly severe or interfere significantly with the usual course of your day.
Which Sleeping Positions Can Help With Period Pain?
It has been observed that proper sleeping position significantly reduces period pain. There are some sleeping positions that can help to relax the menstrual pain.
● Side Sleeping: The side position helps to reduce pressure to your abdomen and will ease the cramping as well. You can even use a pillow between your knees for more support.
● Foetal Position: This is where one curls up in a foetal position that helps to relax your muscles and ease pressure in the abdomen.
● Back Sleeping with a Pillow: Place a pillow under your knees to support your lower back and alleviate pressure on your abdomen.
Find what works for you by experimenting with different positioning. Remember comfort is the key in order to handle the menstrual cycle.
When To Consult A Doctor About Period Pain
If your period cramps are severe, affect your daily functioning, or accompany other concerning symptoms, consult a doctor as we have mentioned earlier in the blog. Here are some warning signs you should make note of and look out for:
● Severe pain: If your cramps are so intense that they interfere with your daily life and prevent you from doing normal things, see a doctor.
● Persistent pain: If cramping lasts for more than a day or two, or even after your period has ended, this may be abnormal.
● No relief from over-the-counter medications: If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen don't work to reduce the pain, this might be a sign that a doctor visit is needed.
● Heavy bleeding: If you need to change pads or tampons frequently for excessive menstrual bleeding, it may need medical intervention.
● Painful sex: Pain during intercourse may be a symptom of underlying conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
● Unusual discharge: Unusual odour or discharge between periods may be a sign of an infection.
● Pelvic pain outside of your period: Pelvic pain during your period might be a sign of an underlying health condition.
● Changes in menstrual cycle: If your periods turned irregular, your periods became unusually heavy or light, or you experienced spotting between periods, then you should see a doctor.
Medical attention can help you determine the cause of your menstrual issues and treatment appropriate to such pains.
How Can I Help With Period Pains?
I understand that period pain can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. My approach is centred on a comprehensive evaluation of your individual cycle, history, and unique needs.
When it comes to how to help period pain, I believe a one-size-fits-all approach is ineffective. Each woman's cycle is distinct, and addressing period pain requires a tailored solution. My services involve:
● Personalised Consultation: I listen attentively to your experiences, analyse your cycle history, and provide personalised guidance.
● Holistic Assessment: I also explore dietary, lifestyle, and supplement factors that may contribute to your symptoms.
● Genetic Testing: By identifying genetic predispositions, I can pinpoint specific nutritional needs or areas that require support.
● Blood Testing: I identify nutrient deficiencies that may be impacting your cycle and overall well-being.
By combining these elements, I aim to provide effective, long-term relief from period pain while supporting your overall health and well-being.
Contact me today to find out more on how I can help you with your period pain.
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