6 Ways to Relieve Menstrual Cramps

Even though we get them every month, period cramps are never easy to deal with. And every month forward growing up, we try to learn hacks to deal with the never-ending knots in our abdomen whether it’s getting absorbed into work, resting, or trying whatever recommendations our grandmas and aunts suggest.

But there are some days when no matter how busy you get, you still manage to feel excruciating pain in your stomach, thighs, and lower back.

Menstrual cramps are caused by ‘prostaglandins’ involved in inflammation & pain and trigger the uterine muscle contractions which happen to enable the uterus to shed its lining during menstruation.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often recommended for easing menstrual cramps. These drugs work by decreasing the production of prostaglandins which further helps reduce pain.

While over-the-counter pain reliever drugs can help relieve pain to a good extent, they can cause a myriad of side effects like dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, etc.

Here are a few natural ways in which you can get rid of your period cramps:

1. Hot compress

An ancient remedy used to relieve menstrual pain, hot compresses using heating pads or a hot water bottle around your lower abdomen can help improve the blood circulation around the site of pain and reduce period pain.

2. Yoga to relieve period cramps

Both Yoga and exercise can release endorphins and reduce menstrual pain. Opting for these practices may or may not feel good to you during your period so be sure to adopt what feels comforting to you.

Here are some Yoga poses you can try to relieve period pain and discomfort:

– Cobbler’s Pose
– Head to Knee Pose
– Seated Straddle
– Seated Forward Bend
– Supported Bridge Pose
– Goddess Pose

1. Stay Hydrated:

Drink up and chill! Yes, keeping yourself hydrated during your periods can help relieve pain. It is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to reduce bloating, fatigue, and muscle cramps.

2. Ginger all the way!

Ginger has anti-spasmodic properties that help reduce the pain caused by prostaglandins. You can grate a small piece of ginger onto a warm glass of water, or make ginger – tea and feel the relaxing effect of the drink.

3. Avoid salt, caffeine, and alcohol

Consuming too much salt and caffeine during your periods can cause bloating and further add to the discomfort. You don’t need a scientist to tell you that alcohol isn’t the best for your health. Consuming alcohol during periods can cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and diarrhea.

4. Embrace the greens!

Iron levels could drop during your period especially when you experience a heavy flow. Leafy green vegetables can be a good source of iron! Greens also have high carotenoid, flavonoid & plant polyphenol content that give them anti-inflammatory characteristics. This reduces prostaglandin activity and relieves menstrual cramps!

Tell us about your period story! How do you manage to get rid of your period cramps with the help of natural remedies?

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