It’s that time of the month. Some call it shark week, others hail it as the bloodbath. Periods are baptized with all sorts of names, often with names signifying pain, as often, periods are remarked by awful cramps, extreme pain, discomfort that cannot be described, and the constant changing of period paraphernalia.
During the period-week, most women find it hard to function because of the pain and especially the cramps. Not everyone has the luxury of resting; some have to battle work, life, family alongside the cramps.
Hence, it is important to have effective pain management strategies in place. However, it is vital to note that if you experience extreme pain, or you have a lot of bleeding, then you must seek help from your gynecologist, as these are not signs that should be made light of.
Remedies for period cramping your life
Remedies may be trial and error since what may work for others might not work for you. You may need to try a few before you reach your solution, but once you do, your life will become much easier.
Some remedies are anecdotal, others are backed in science. Finding which works for you is your target now!
Heating pad
Cramps are basically your uterine muscles contracting to expel the blood and co. out of your body. Heating pads help in relaxing the muscles, that then aids in preventing the cramps and hence the pain.
You may also use hot water bottles or heat patch as well; basically, whatever gives your muscles the required heat, and doesn’t burn your skin.
Massage
Massaging feels oh-so-good generally, but it also helps you feel better during your periods as well. Massage helps in relaxing the muscles. To pack a punch, use certain essential oils that can help as well. Some hailed to be good for period cramps include cinnamon, lavender, rose, sage oils etc.
Also, make sure that you add a carrier oil to your essential oil, as otherwise they are too potent. You may choose from oils like almond, coconut, olive oil etc.
Pain killer
One way to kill the pain is by using a pain killer. You may need to find the pill that works for you but be safe. Just because they are over-the-counter pain meds does not mean you can take at your will. There are many pills that too much of can cause problems around the body.
Supplements
Some nutritional supplements can also help you with the period cramps. Magnesium especially has been found to be effective. Similarly, calcium, b group vitamins and vitamin D are also thought to help with period pain.
However, before starting the supplements, also confer with your doctor, as they might not work for you, or react with your medication otherwise.
Yoga and exercise otherwise
When in doubt, do yoga. A form of exercise, yoga aids in improving physical and mental health. It is also great for the helping with period cramps. Moreover, exercise generally also helps with period cramps, so even if yoga is not your cup of tea, you can try other forms of cardio exercises as well.
Waters up
Water is important for to stay healthy, and to especially keep your muscles happy and healthy. If you are dehydrated, the cramps will feel worse, since your muscles are suffering.
So, make sure that you drink a lot of water. To stay hydrated, you can also enjoy more foods with high water content like watermelon, cucumbers etc. Also, try to avoid too much caffeine, as it promotes water loss from the body.
Oral contraceptives
If your period cramps are extremely debilitating, especially with a heavy flow, you might benefit from the use of oral contraceptive pills. However, consult your gynecologist in Karachi first before taking these. Use only at their recommendation, as some women find it harder to manage with the pills.
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