If you struggle with period cramps every month, here are 8 remedies you can try to ease the discomfort and get some instant relief.
While some people experience mild cramps during their periods, others are not that lucky and have to deal with intense pain and discomfort. In most cases, period cramps do not indicate any serious underlying health issues but can dampen your mood and lower your energy levels during that time of the month. Try These 8 Remedies for Instant Relief:
- Apply heat
One of the quickest ways to ease period cramps is to apply heat to the abdomen. Use a hot water bag or a heated patch to relax the muscles and improve blood flow to the uterus area.
- Move your body
Aerobic exercises boost endorphins and have pain-relieving benefits. Try low or medium-intensity activities like walking or yoga to boost your mood and provide relief from period cramps. Even a short 30-minute walk can help significantly reduce the pain. You can track your steps with the StepSetGo app.
Related: How to make time for workouts when you are busy
- Drink herbal tea
Certain herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, peppermint, and fennel have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce muscle spasms and relieve menstrual cramps. Drink a relaxing herbal tea in the morning or before bed for some instant relief.
- Try vitamin supplements
Studies show that vitamin D, B12, and magnesium are highly effective in easing the pain of period cramps. These supplements can help reduce inflammation. Be sure to consult a doctor before adding new supplements to your diet so as to avoid the risk of any side effects.
- Massage your tummy
Massaging your abdomen area with essential oils is known to relieve period cramp pain. Gently massage your tummy with a relaxing oil like lavender to get some relief from the cramps.
- Avoid salty foods and caffeine
Excessive caffeine narrows your blood vessels which, in turn, increases the intensity of your period cramps. Switch to decaf coffee during your periods and limit your intake of salty foods as it can lead to water retention, bloating, and discomfort.
- Reduce stress
Stress activates your body’s fight or flight response and lowers its threshold to pain, making the period cramps feel much worse. Indulge in stress-relieving activities like meditation, yoga, deep breathing, aromatherapy, etc.
- Take a painkiller
In case of extreme pain, over-the-counter painkillers like Ibuprofen can provide fast-acting relief from period cramps. As with any other medication, check with your doctor before you take a pill for your cramps.
