5 Ways To Take Care Of Menstrual Cramps

Cramps are a common side effect of a menstrual cycle and can be quite unpleasant. If your cramps are severe enough, you may have trouble getting out of bed and doing your everyday activities. If you are willing to make a few lifestyle changes, you might be able to get relief from your cramps. Here are five effective ways to take care of menstrual cramps:

Use a Heating Pad

A heating pad is considered one of the most effective remedies for period cramps. Heat helps your muscles relax throughout your entire body, thus reducing cramps. As you are lying down on your bed or couch, place the heating pad over your stomach and leave it there until you feel relief.

Change Your Diet

Your diet can have more of an effect on your menstrual cramps than you think. If your diet consists of foods filled with sodium and saturated fats, for example, it might make your cramps feel worse. If you include more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and other healthy foods in your diet, your cramps might subside. Foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, olive oil, and walnuts, can also reduce your cramping by reducing the inflammation in your body.

Do Yoga

Exercise might be the last thing on your mind, but give yoga a chance. Certain yoga poses, like the bow pose and cobra, target the pelvis and can give you relief from cramps.

Avoid Caffeine

It might be a wise idea to give up coffee and other caffeinated beverages until your period is over. Caffeine tends to constrict your blood vessels, making your cramps feel even worse. Giving up your daily cup of java might be difficult at first, but it is worth it.

Try Birth Control

Birth control does not just prevent unwanted pregnancies; it can also alleviate cramps. Birth control pills regulate your hormones, so you will be less likely to deal with period pain. There are also sorts of different birth control pills out there, so it's best to discuss them with a professional, like Bee Ridge Obstetrics Gynecology . He or she can help you choose the right one.

You don't have to suffer during your period every month. If you follow these helpful tips, you can alleviate your menstrual cramps. However, if you still can't find relief, make an appointment to see your doctor. He or she can determine if an underlying condition is causing your cramps or not.