MENSTRUAL CRAMPS | About menstrual cramps | About menstrual cycle | About time of menstrual cramps

 Overview:-

Menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea is a condition in which a woman feels a throbbing or cramps in the lower abdominal region.

They can be really uncomfortable and painful for some women and non-existent for others.

For most women, the cramps begin about 2 or 3 days before period and may last of three or for their complete period duration. For most women they just create a discomfort, but for some, menstrual cramps can be so severe that they might start hindering their day to day activities.

Why do they happen?

Menstrual cramps happen because of a reason. During periods the uterine lining sheds. The uterus contracts which makes the lining come off. These contractions are triggered by prostaglandins, a hormone. When there is excessive production of prostaglandins, you suffer from pain.

The contractions of the uterus lining are important as they make the blood flow out of vagina, but when excessive contractions are there, they cause pain and discomfort.

You can have your first cramp before your first period too. The pain is most excruciating in the first 3 days, when the flow is heaviest. They can be painful, but other than that, they aren't harmful for your body. They can be treated simply at home too.

Symptoms:-

Every woman suffers from menstrual cramps at least once in her life. Every girl knows it's symptoms. But still, here are some common symptoms of menstrual cramps for those who don't know.

1.Throbbing in the lower abdomen

2. Pressure or continuous dull ache in the lower abdomen

3. Pain in the lower back and inner thighs

4. Nausea

5. Fatigue

6. Dizziness

7. Headache

8. Loose stool

Homemade remedies:-

Menstrual cramps can be easily treated with home made remedies. Some people take pain medications for cramps. They help but they are not good for your body in the long term. You should go for natural home remedies for a relief to your menstrual cramps.

1.Heating pad.

A heating pad is the  best home remedy for treating your cramps. Heat relieves the pressure in your lower abdomen. You can use a proper heating pad or can fill a bottle with hot water and place it on your lower abdomen. It really helps!

2. Exercise

Exercising for 30 minutes daily helps in your periodical menstrual cramps. Exercising increases the blood flow in your lower abdomen. Exercising during periods also helps in reducing cramps. 

3. Hot bath

Soaking in hot water helps you in relieving stress and also helps in reducing menstrual cramps. It soothes your lower back and abdomen.

4. Supplements

Taking supplements of magnesium, vitamin B1 and B6 and omega-3 fatty acids helps in reducing menstrual cramps. They reduce the severity of cramps you might be suffering. Buy vitamin B supplements online here.

5. Stress management

General life stress is linked with severe menstrual cramps. If you go for stress management, then you might get relief from menstrual cramps. You can do yoga or meditation.

6. Conservative diet

There are certain food items that help in making your menstrual flow smooth and reduce cramps. You should include them in your diet. They include.

1.Papaya

2. Brown rice

3. Olive oil

4. Flax seed

5. Walnuts

6. Almonds

7. Avocados

If you wish to get relief from your menstrual cramps, you will have to avoid certain food during and before menstruation. They include.

1.Fatty food

2. Alcohol

3. Caffeine

4. Carbonated drinks

You can buy required items online from here:

1.Brown Rice

2. Flax seeds

3. Walnuts

4. Almonds

Conclusion

Menstrual cramps can be a painful experience and might hinder your day to day activities. If you feel excessive pain then you should consult a doctor. There are other reasons for menstrual cramps too, but this article only discusses dysmenorrhea.

Thanks for reading