Period cramps are a common occurrence for many menstruating individuals. These painful sensations, also known as dysmenorrhea, can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain that interferes with daily life. Periods have a lot of symptoms that come with it but many would agree that this is one of the worst.
“In order to shed its lining, the muscles and blood vessels in the uterus contract. These contractions can cause cramping in the lower abdomen and back,” says Dr. Mae Kathleen Borchardt, OB-GYN at Houston Methodist. “Period cramping can feel differently for different women. Some have only mild discomfort, while others experience severe pain that can make everyday tasks difficult.”
For those who suffer from severe cramps, it can feel like a monthly battle that never ends. Fortunately, there are various ways to ease the pain and discomfort caused by period cramps. Today we’ll address four of them.
Taking Painkillers A Day Or Two Before Your Period
Taking painkillers such as ibuprofen or aspirin a day or two before your period starts can help reduce the severity of your period cramps. These medications work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause the uterus to contract, leading to menstrual cramps. It’s essential to follow the recommended dosage of the painkillers and not exceed the daily maximum. It’s also crucial to check with your healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions(e.g. asthma).
Eating Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate contains compounds called flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to ease period cramps. The flavonoids in the chocolate can help to relax the blood vessels in the uterus and reduce cramps and promote blood flow. Eating a small piece of dark chocolate every day in the week leading up to your period will help to reduce inflammation that causes cramps
Essential Oils
Using essential oil helps ease period cramps when massaged onto the abdomen, especially when used in a blend of oils. Oils that seem to be most effective at reducing period cramps include lavender, sage, rose, marjoram, cinnamon and clove. Before using essential oils, you’ll want to mix them with carrier oils, like coconut oil or jojoba oil. Carrier oils work by safely “carrying” the essential oil into your skin and helping to spread the oil over a large area. It’s important to do a patch test to check for allergies.
Drinking Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is a popular natural remedy for soothing period cramps. It works by helping to relax the muscles in the uterus, which can relieve the pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps. You can drink peppermint tea two to three times a day, starting a few days before your period is due. It’s important to note that while peppermint tea can be effective in relieving mild to moderate period cramps, it may not be enough to alleviate severe cramps but it definitely doesn’t hurt.
Orgasms
When we orgasm we release chemicals like Dopamine and serotonin which are hormones associated with mood enhancement. These chemicals can effectively alleviate menstrual cramps. What this means is if you cum while on your period, you may not need painkillers like paracetamol or Ibuprofen. Your body will give you the release you seek.
Additionally, when you orgasm you increase blood flow which goes straight to the uterus, helping to alleviate your pain. Orgasms also help reduce stress levels and triggers the release of endorphins in the body, leading to enhanced relaxation and improved sleep quality.
Period cramps can be a source of discomfort, but they don’t have to disrupt your daily life. Taking painkillers before the start of your period, applying essential oils on your abdomen, drinking peppermint tea, and taking dark chocolate can help ease the cramps. It’s important to note that if your period cramps are severe and affecting your quality of life, it’s essential to seek medical advice from your healthcare provider.
