I get heavy pain during my periods! I find myself very uncomfortable during periods. I tried most of the period cramp relief options but none of them worked.
How often do you experience this? We know you're tired of trying all the available options for your period cramps relief.
But here in this blog, we will be providing you with the best solutions for your period cramps. Before going into the depth of the topic let's first understand what exactly period cramps are:
Understanding the period cramps:
Menstruation or periods, every woman has her period every month. However, a few women experience cramps with a painful menstrual cycle. These pains during periods are called period cramps. This condition is also called dysmenorrhea. Now coming to the cramps they may be very severe throbbing in the lower abdomen. Also, a few other symptoms such as lower back pain, headaches nausea, and diarrhea, are experienced in certain women.
Now what are the symptoms of period cramps?
As discussed earlier the first and foremost symptom of period cramps is throbbing pain near the lower abdomen that extends to the lower back, thighs, and legs. Bloating, fatigue, and irritability are also a few common symptoms of period cramps.
Causes of period cramps:
❖We all know that most women have period cramps in their menstrual cycle but no one has an idea what causes the period cramps. So period cramps are caused by the contraction of the uterus as it sheds its line during menstruation.
❖There are two main causes of cramps called primary dysmenorrhea which involves the release of too much prostaglandins (are responsible for tightening and relaxation of uterus muscles)that are hormone-like substances that cause muscle contractions leading to cramps.
❖In the case of primary dysmenorrhea, you get period cramps when you are younger, gradually it decreases as you get older and it may decrease once you give birth to a child.
❖Coming to secondary dysmenorrhea starts after a certain age, this is caused mostly by a few conditions that affect your uterus or any other reproductive organs. The conditions may be endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or uterine fibroids. The cramps in case of secondary dysmenorrhea can be severe until your menstrual cycle completes.
Period cramps relief:
There are a variety of options available for period cramp relief such as:
1)Period cramps medicine:
Medicines such as ibuprofen(Advil, Motrin) or Naproxen (Aleve) are known to reduce menstrual cramps in women.
People who can not take the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that are mentioned above are advised to take acetaminophen.
2)Period cramps exercise:
Exercise can also relieve period cramps, light activities such as walking, yoga, and stretching can increase the blood flow reducing the pain severity. Exercise releases endorphins the natural pain killers and provides relaxation to muscles. Yoga poses like balasana, bhujangasana, and supta baddha konasana are known to provide relaxation from period cramps.
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3)Period pain relief device:
A)Heating pads:
These work by applying heat to the lower abdomen, which provides muscle relaxation(uterine muscles), increased blood flow, and pain relief. There are different types of heating pads such as
Electric heating pads:
The electric heating pads are plugged in with electricity having adjustable heat. Out of all the electric heating pads available aGIOGIO portable heating pad stands as the best. It has 3-speed adjustment temperatures and 4-speed massage modes. It is a charging device that can be charged through a USB port and contains an LED display screen for the best user experience. It can be worn comfortably wherever you go while having period cramps.
Heat Patches:
Heat patches are one of the convenient methods to prevent period cramps, they are non-invasive, portable, and easy to use. There are numerous heat patch options available in the market, but the Nua pain comfort patches are made with natural ingredients such as iron, vermiculite, natural salt, and activated carbon to provide quick relief from menstrual cramps.
B)Period cramps belt :
The period cramp belts are wearable devices that reduce menstrual cramps by providing heat and vibration on the lower abdomen and the lower back. They are portable having adjustable heat as per your comfort. Follow the instructions as mentioned in the device instructions manual and use it for effective pain relief from period cramps.
C)Period cramps massager:
Electronic period cramps massagers are widely used in recent days that best help in alleviating menstrual pain. The devices are to be manually applied to the lower back or the lower abdomen providing relief by combining massage with heat therapy.
FAQs on period cramps:
- Are period pain relief devices safe?
Yes, most pain relief devices are safe. However, you need to consult your doctor before using any type of pain relief device because not all types of pain relief devices are suitable for everyone.
- What are the side effects of period pain relief?
A few pain relief medications can induce side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, and gastrointestinal issues. Also, a few electronic pain relief devices can cause skin irritation. So, use any type of pain relief device or medication after understanding if it is suitable for you or not.
- What is the best device for period pain?
The best device can be based on individual preference. But in recent years the best device for period pain would be the Welme period pain relief device.
- Do period pain machines work?
Yes, most of the users find significant relief after using pain relief devices that reduce the pain by relaxing muscles.
- What level of period pain is normal during periods?
Mild pain that is manageable with medications and home remedies is considered to be normal. Severe pain that interrupts the daily activities needs medical attention.
Also, read our blogs on women's health.
This is all about the period pain relief options that are available overall. Understanding the period cramps and the necessary relief measures can best help you to make yourself free from such severe and throbbing pain.