How To Alleviate Menstrual Cramps?

Menstruation brings many unpleasant things with it. Some of these things are also menstrual cramps and pains. How to get rid of them?

What are menstrual cramps?

The technical term for painful cramps which occur in the lower part of the stomach during menstruation is dysmenorrhea. Menstrual cramps usually last two to three days and are different in terms of the strength of pain – from mildly annoying pains to strong ones which hinder everyday activities. Women who got their period relatively early (say at 11), women with a period that lasts five days or more, women who are overweight and women who have not yet given birth are more exposed to stronger menstrual cramps. Smoking and alcohol also increase the possibility of cramps. There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is a common occurrence which is reduced in certain cases or it even disappears. Secondary dysmenorrhea is connected to physical problems, which signals to a problem with reproductive organs.

What causes dysmenorrhoea?

The tissue surrounding the uterus forms chemicals (prostaglandin) which are connected to certain discomforts during a woman’s period. These substances are also responsible for the contraction of the uterus. When the uterus contracts a great deal, it can press the nearest vein and stop the flow of oxygen to the muscle tissue of the uterus. The pain occurs when the muscle loses its oxygen supply momentarily. Women with more prostaglandin suffer from more intense menstrual cramps and consequently more intense menstrual pains. The same chemical can also cause vomiting, diarrhea and headaches, which are also frequent occurrences during a woman’s period.

Secondary dysmenorrhoea is caused by other factors:

-       endometriosis: the tissue of the uterus is also present in other parts of the lower part of the stomach

-          benign growths: cysts on the ovaries or polyps

-          inflammation of reproductive organs

-          tumors on the uterus

-          problematic pregnancy

-          uterus implants

-          tightening of the cervix

Symptoms of menstrual pains

Besides menstrual cramps and pains in the lower part of the stomach, other unpleasant things can occur. Women often feel pain in their hips, the lower part of the back and on the inside of their thighs. The menstrual cramps can be accompanied by vomiting, diarrhoea, a feeling of physical weakness and headaches.

How can you help yourself at home?

The easiest way to get rid of the pain is with some pain killers. Use the stronger kinds which also accelerate blood circulation and not Aspirin, which doesn’t have this effect. You can also get rid of pain with a hot compress on the lower part of the stomach and back and with a gentle massage of both these areas. Rest also has a beneficent effect on the pain, which will not be as intense if you rest with your legs bended – in the fetal position. Avoid beverages with caffeine, heavy food, smoking and drinking alcohol. As a preventive measure, it’s also recommendable not to be overweight and to exercise regularly.

When do menstrual pains require medical help?

Most women feel better with home care, but medical help is required if the menstrual pains last longer than usual, if the pain is becoming more intense, when stronger bleeding occurs and in case of fever. Doctors will try to determine through conversation what type of dysmenorrhoea they’re dealing with and will determine the appropriate medication, based on their findings and a gynaecological examination.

Find more advice on issues connected to period in our Lover's Guide.