How to get rid of period cramps

If you've been having الدورة الشهرية for a while, you might be able to notice the tell-tale signs of period cramps in your tummy, back and legs, whether it's dull and constant or short painful spasms. But what causes it?

What causes period cramps?

Contractions

"Painful period, or menstrual cramps, are caused by contractions in the womb as it expels the womb lining and presses on blood vessels, which temporarily cut off the blood supply and restrict oxygen," says Dr Vanessa Mackay, consultant gynaecologist and spokesperson for the الكلية الملكية لأطباء النساء والتوليد. This causes the tissues in the womb to release chemicals triggering pain.

These contractions can cause cramps and discomfort during your period and can make it difficult to concentrate while doing everyday tasks. In fact, a recent دراسة found that period cramps account for nine days of lost productivity for women each year.

Period pain tends to follow a pattern which distinguishes it from ordinary stomach or back pain. "Period cramps are usually at their most intense during the first few days of bleeding and can vary for each woman," says Mackay.

Period cramps should only occur in the few days before or during your period, says Mackay. "It is a good idea to seek advice if this menstrual pain continues throughout the month as this may be a symptom of a different problem."

If your period pain isn't caused by an underlying condition or causing severe pain, you should be able to treat it without seeing a doctor.

How does heat help period cramps?

"Many women find that heat is helpful to manage their period cramps, so using a hot water bottle or a heat pad or having a warm bath could provide some comfort," says Mackay. Using heat is a cheap, effective and side-effect-free way to relieve pain. One دراسة found that using a heat pad was as effective as painkillers.

Warmth applied directly to the pelvic area may help to relax the muscles in the uterus, whilst a warm bath or shower can help relax your whole body.

Lifestyle

The severity of your period cramps isn't just down to chance. Lifestyle factors like weight and smoking also play a role. "It is important for those who smoke to try to stop, as this is thought to increase the likelihood of experiencing period pain," says Mackay. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health and there's plenty of support available from your pharmacist to help you stop for good.

Does exercise help period cramps?

Whilst it might be the last thing you want to do when you're on your period, regular exercise really does help with period cramp relief. "Exercise, massage and relaxation techniques like yoga and Pilates can also be beneficial," says Mackay.

Getting the blood pumping makes the body release endorphins, 'happy hormones' which reduce pain. You could try going on a light walk, swimming or following a yoga tutorial at home.

In general, keeping fit and maintaining a healthy weight could help to improve your period pain. الدراسات have shown that those who are underweight أو تعاني من زيادة الوزن are more likely to experience menstrual cramps.

Massage to relieve menstrual cramps involves targeting points across the back, stomach, and sides and has been found to be effective in reducing pain caused by الانتباذ البطاني الرحمي.

But you don't necessarily need to go and get a massage when you're on your period (although it might be a nice treat). Try gently massaging your lower abdomen, below your belly button, in circular motions.

Should I take painkillers for period cramps?

Of course, there are medications you can take to reduce period cramps. "Women may want to use painkillers such as الإيبوبروفين, الأسبرين و الباراسيتامول," says Mackay.

Your doctor may also prescribe stronger painkillers like codeine in some case if ordinary ones aren't doing the trick.

An anti-inflammatory painkiller called naproxen also offers effective relief against period pain. You can book a consultation with your pharmacist to see if it will be suitable for you. They can offer you short private (paid for) courses of tablets to manage painful cramps.

Just because periods cause period pain doesn't mean that you have to put up with it. الأبحاث suggests that severe and disruptive period cramps may affect up to 20% of women. In some cases, these can be down to an underlying problem such as الانتباذ البطاني الرحمي أو مرض التهاب الحوض.

"Women should see their healthcare professional if they are experiencing period pain that is worse or different than normal and if it is preventing them from continuing with their day-to-day lives," says Mackay.

If you track your periods, make sure to include information about period pain as well so that you can notice any changes. "It is helpful for women to track their periods as much as possible so that they can notice any changes and be able to articulate them fully to their healthcare professional to aid quicker diagnosis or treatment," she explains.

Your doctor may be able to offer you stronger painkillers or contraception to help regulate and reduce period cramps and period pain. If they suspect that there could be an underlying cause for your pain, you can be referred to see a gynaecologist who can investigate further.