Banishing the Monthly Misery: Effective Strategies for Relieving Period Cramps and Menstrual Pain

Essential Takeaways

1. Some discomfort during the period is normal on days where the uterus sheds it’s lining.
2. Pain and cramps that are mild to severe are not normal.
3. OTC pain relievers can interfere with your health, seek natural ways to relieve your pain.

Are period cramps & period pain normal?

Some people may experience slight cramps or pain during their menstrual period, which is a part of a normal menstrual cycle. This is caused by the uterus contracting to help shed the lining.

However, it is not normal if the pain is severe or interferes with daily activities, and it is important to understand speak with a healthcare provider to make sure there is not an underlying medical condition causing the pain.

Period pain is a common experience for many people who menstruate (about 90% of women experience discomfort). The severity of the pain and the heaviness of a period can vary from person to person and from cycle to cycle.

There are several factors that can contribute to the severity of period pain, including inflammation hormonal imbalances, endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, and other conditions. Lifestyle factors such as stress, lack of exercise, and poor diet can also impact period pain.

There common “western ways” to manage period pain, are over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, heating pads, or hormonal birth control. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce period pain, make periods more manageable overall and improve a women’s health.

Good To Know: What are the side effects OTC pain medication?

👉 Pain medication, such as ibuprofen, can have side effects such as stomach upset, headaches, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke when used excessively or for prolonged periods of time. Additionally, pain medication attacks the stomach lining, interfering with our digestive tract, our mood and overall well-being. Use responsibly.

What are some natural ways to relieve period pain?

Some natural ways to relieve period pain include exercise, applying heat to the affected area, and practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga. Additionally, certain foods and supplements such as ginger, turmeric, and magnesium may help alleviate period pain.

Hydration, rest, and self-care (such as a hot bubble bath) are key components to managing your menstrual cycle, period pain and promoting overall reproductive health.

If you want to learn more about how herbs can help relieve period pain, click here.