Ways to Alleviate Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps typically occur before/during women’s menstrual periods. These cramps can present as a throbbing, unbearable pain within the lower abdomen (Mayo Clinic, 2022). The pain can vary in intensity from a minor inconvenience to severe pain that can inhibit every day activities each month. Conditions such as uterine fibroids or endometriosis can exacerbate menstrual cramps (Mayo Clinic, 2022). As women age, these cramps tend to become less painful. Pain may radiate to the low back or thighs and may accompany nausea, diarrhea and dizziness while a woman is menstruating.

Menstrual cramps occur due to release of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins which can trigger contractions of the uterine muscle (Mayo Clinic, 2022). Increased levels of prostaglandins are associated with increased severity of cramps. Risk factors of menstrual cramps include being younger than 30 years old, starting puberty before the age of 11, heavy bleeding during periods, irregular menstrual bleeding, family history of painful cramps or smoking.

Patients that have severe menstrual cramps impacting activities of daily living may choose to seek care from their health care provider. Treatments may include over the counter medication such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen, or hormonal birth control which contain hormones that prevent ovulation and reduce menstrual cramp pain (Mayo Clinic, 2022). Home remedies include adequate hydration, regular physical activity such as exercise or sexual intercourse, heat such as a warm bath or heating pad, dietary supplements such as Vitamin E, Omega 3 Fatty Acids, Vitamin B1 and Magnesium. Alternative medical treatments that may help may include acupuncture, herbal medicine or acupressure. Although, these alternative treatments do not have extensive research done on them. An appointment with your primary physician or gynecologist may provide alleviation of symptoms!

References:

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, April 30). Menstrual cramps. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved August 18, 2022, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menstrual-cramps/symptoms-causes/syc-20374938

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, April 30). Menstrual cramps. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved August 18, 2022, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menstrual-cramps/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20374944#:~:text=Soaking%20in%20a%20hot%20bath,supplements%20might%20reduce%20menstrual%20cramps.