It is common to experience discomfort before, during and after your monthly cycle. Menstrual pain often affects the abdomen, back and thighs. It is caused by the muscles in your womb contracting and relaxing to facilitate the shedding of your womb’s lining during menstruation. Some people who menstruate also suffer from headaches, nausea and diarrhea; however, this is less common.
You can relieve the pain of menstrual cramps with over-the-counter medication. However, there are some natural remedies that you can try too. Here are some tips to help relieve period pains without the help of over-the-counter or prescribed medication.
Walk
Walking is probably the last thing you want to do when you have severe period pains; however, walking can help relax the muscles and ease the cramping. Regular exercise can help to reduce period pains not just during your menstrual cycle but before it even starts. Walk for at least 30 minutes per day to relieve menstrual cramps.
Include stretching and yoga poses such as poses that stretch and strengthen the back muscles and pelvic muscles. Don’t wait until you are on your period before you start exercising. Instead, schedule regular exercise into your daily routine to reduce period pains and keep your muscles, bones and joints healthy and strong.
Drink Warm Water
One of the most common menstrual cycle symptoms is stomach bloating, leading to more pain and discomfort. Reduce bloating by drinking warm water throughout the day; add peppermint tea bags or mint leaves to your warm water to enhance the anti-bloating effect.
Get Comfortable
Reduce menstruation cramps by getting comfortable and relaxing. Wear your comfy sweatpants, fluffy socks and get yourself a nice, warm cup of tea. Ensure you are adequately protected and prepared by wearing a good quality menstrual pad or tampon like Yoppie organic tampons. Watch your favourite movie, relax and forget about the hustle and bustle of life for a while.
Hot Water Bottle
Applying heat to the painful areas can help to reduce the pain. For example, use a hot water bottle or create a homemade heat pack by filling an old pillowcase with rice, tie it up, and place it in the microwave until it’s warm. Place the warm pillowcase on your stomach, back or wherever you feel the pain.
Massage
Massage is an effective way of reducing menstrual pains. Use essential oils like lavender or sage to massage the affected areas. Combine seven or eight drops of essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Never use essential oils without a carrier oil; they are often too strong for use on the skin. Also, keep essential oils away from pets, especially cats; they will get ill if they smell or come into contact with essential oils.
Diet
Diet plays a significant role in your reproductive health; therefore, pay close attention to the foods you eat during and after your menstrual cycle. Avoid or reduce caffeine, alcohol, fatty foods, salty or oily foods.
Final Thoughts
Period pains are uncomfortable, but you can reduce the discomfort by implementing some or all of the tips mentioned here to relieve bloating and reduce painful periods.
