help relieve menstrual cramps and period pain: How to Relieve Menstrual Cramps menstrual cramps, period pain, menstruation, gynaecologist, health, diet, exercise

While some women feel a dull niggling pain, others suffer from severe menstrual cramps. A monthly period is this something all women have to live but is there something we can do about the discomfort?

No, we are not asking you to munch on another bar of chocolate. First let’s understand what causes period pain. As our uterus gets ready to shed off the extra lining, hormones called prostaglandins kick in to push this lining out the vagina. These are the same hormones that aid in pushing out the baby. Some of us have a stronger concentration of these hormones. Besides, the blood flow to the uterus reduces causing muscle spasm. This condition is also called Dysmenorrhoea in medical terms. 


Here are some tips to help relieve menstrual cramps and period pain:

• First of all, continue with your gentle exercise and walk even when you get your period.
• If that seems impossible, have a nice hot shower to relax the muscles. You could also use hot water bottle around the back and lower abdomen.
• Avoid tight-waisted clothes and belts and just let your belly be!
• If you can include wild yam in your diet, it is supposed to load an extra dose of hormones. Avoid red meats and caffeine as some women feel these exacerbate the pain.
• Some women swear by raspberry leaf tea. Tea works wonders in calming the body and soul.
• There have also been positive reports about applying lavender oil around your stomach.
• Have liberal doses of calcium. Some women call this the magic cure. If you are lactose intolerant, have a good 600 mg of calcium chewables.
• It is natural to feel bloated before your periods. This is due to water retention. If you reduce your salt intake a couple of days before periods, you’ll help your kidneys discharge this extra water.
• Papaya is supposed to be heaty and has purging properties. So have a generous helping before and during your periods to ease the flow.
• Carrot juice and soup also help combat period pain.
• Some women have found Aloe Vera juice mixed with honey quite helpful in easing the flow. A smooth flow means less pain. 

If you have never suffered from period pain before, do monitor it closely. You may want to see a doctor to rule out any other cause. And remember to be kind to yourself. Relax, lie down and pamper yourself. Read a book, listen to some soft music or chat up with friends. If you feel happy and rejuvenated, your mind will help you fight physical pain.