Menstruation plays a significant purpose in a woman’s life. It serves as a monthly update of your health and well-being. However, girls cannot deny how exhilarating having your period is. Mood swings, cravings, and dizziness―these are just some of the many symptoms that accompany it. But the worst part about having your monthly bloodied visitor is having a menstrual cramp (aka dysmenorrhea and period cramps).
Southside Group of Companies is a Pharmacy in Houston, Texas. We list down some ways you can do to deal with your menstrual cramps.
- Get moving!
When you have menstrual cramps, the last thing you would want is to move around. However, according to a report published in the Journal of Family Productive Health in 2015 finds that both aerobic exercise and stretching can help soothe period cramps. When you work out, your body releases endorphins. These are natural painkillers that your body is able to produce. Also, endorphins are said to improve your mood. - Heat things up.
Heat is known to help relax the muscles. When you are experiencing a terrible dysmenorrhea pain, apply a heating pad on your lower belly. You can find a heating pad in a drugstore. If you have none at the moment, you can fill a bottle with warm water and roll the bottle on your lower belly. You can also take a warm bath if you feel like it. - Avoid prohibited foods.
There are certain foods that can worsen your menstrual cramps including foods containing caffeine such as coffee, tea, soda, and (sorry, girls!) chocolates. Eliminate these foods in your diet during your period. - Distract yourself.
Focusing on the pain will just worsen it. Instead of moping around, find something interesting to do. You can watch your favorite romantic comedy movie. Or you can also relax on your couch and listen to some mellow rock songs. - Have a good night sleep.
Several studies have found that sleep quality can affect the menstrual symptoms, especially dysmenorrhea pain. Be sure to have enough sleep so as to keep your period cramps at a bearable level. If your period cramps make it difficult for you to sleep, try taking a nice warm bath before bedtime. It helps! - Pop some over-the-counter painkillers.
Many girls are hesitant to take painkillers to relieve their menstrual cramps. However, if the pain becomes excruciatingly unbearable, it is time that you reconsider taking one. Advil is a safe OTC painkiller. Before purchasing one, consult with a doctor or a pharmacist about it first.
