It’s that time of the month again, ladies. Now, you may dread it or you may feel relief, but the havoc that the monthly menstrual cycle plays on your body remains the same. And honestly, all those wise old ladies telling you that this cramp is nothing compared with labor pains? We don’t give two hoots about labor pains right now! We’ll cross the bridge when we get to it. For now, all we want is some relief from this unbearable pain. Essentially, it is the hormone prostaglandin that is to be blamed for all the cramps. That and the uterine walls contracting and expanding to release the monthly uterine lining. But fear not, for given below are the top ten easy ways to reduce or get rid of this all consuming pain!
Top 10 Ways to Get Rid of Menstrual Cramps:
1. Oh Glorious Warmth:
When you begin to cramp, the fastest and easiest way to counteract this pain is to heat the abdominal area. You can do this with a hot water bottle, the heated underside of your laptop, or even your cat sleeping on your belly! Alternatively, a long, hot shower will also relax the muscles, promoting oxygen supply.
2. The Exercise Antidote:
Contrary to popular belief a little bit of exercise during the menstrual time will only be helpful. It releases endorphins, which are the body’s natural method of pain reduction. So some light yoga and brisk walking will do wonders. If brisk walking scares you, start with an evening stroll. Lying curled up in your bed will serve no purpose!
3. Tea Treatment:
Flavored teas such as chamomile, green or jasmine are mostly relaxants for the mind. But the warmth of the tea should help the muscles of your abdomen relax, if only for a little while. Brew a cup of exotic tea with herbs and sip on it for relief from cramps.
4. Sunshine on a Cramp-y Day:
A smidgen of vitamin D is very good for the health and for menstrual cramps too! So take a walk out to the park just before the sun sets and enjoy the warm sun on your back. Vitamin D is essential for the proper breakdown of minerals in the body and hence, helpful for the overworked uterine muscles.
5. A Massage Medication:
If you live with someone else, have them gently massage your lower back. This relaxes the muscles around your abdomen, promoting blood flow to the area. Alternatively, gently massaging the lower abdomen, with forward strokes, can also help oxygen supply to those aching muscles.
6. Your Diet:
Ensure that you eat healthy during those five to six days of your menses. Your diet should contain of a lot of pulses and grains, leafy vegetables, and fruits. Also, include rich foods such as butter and milk. Cod liver oil and carrots have also been known to help. As for foods to exclude, stay off red meats and coffee to gibe to give some respite to your cramping abdomen.
7. Stay Hydrated:
Water is very important during this period of the month as you can get easily fatigued and dehydrated. Warm water is a better option as it will help ease muscle tensions. Alternatively, you can also consume foods with a high percentage of water, such as oranges or cucumbers.
8. The Lavender Elixir:
A quick and gentle massage with lavender oil is probably the fastest way to relieve menstrual cramps. In just under fifteen minutes, this fragrant oil can relax the abdominal muscles and bring instant relief.
9. Papaya Power:
Believe it or not, this fruit can do wonders for those nasty period cramps. High in vitamins, such as vitamin A, it is just what your tired muscles need to feel rejuvenated. Chomp on a few slices of papaya on those days, for relief from the unbearable cramps and pain.
10. Forty to Fifty Winks:
Never underestimate the power of sleep. If your cramps get too unbearable, simply curl up and catch on some much needed rest and relaxation. A comfortable environment with a hot water bottle on the tummy should do the trick. Try and lie in a position most comfortable, though many claim that sleeping on their tummy helps.
