Menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea is the pain felt in the lower abdomen which women can experience during their menstrual period. Most women experience menstrual cramps prior to and during their period which can be felt as a mild throbbing pain or severe painful cramps.
Why do women experience menstrual cramps?
When women are in their menstrual period, the uterus contracts in order to shed its lining which causes bleeding. During this time, the blood vessels in the uterus can get constricted which leads to lack of oxygen and causes pain and cramping. The more strongly the uterus contracts, the more pain a woman may feel.
Are there other reasons for menstrual cramps?
According to mayoclinic.org, aside from the normal contracting of the uterus, menstrual pain may be felt due to underlying health conditions. Other reasons for menstrual cramps include:
*Endometriosis - a condition caused by abnormal tissues lining the uterus outside uterus wall
*Uterine fibroids - a benign tumor found in the uterus
*adenomyosis - a condition that is caused by abnormal tissues growing inside the walls of the uterus
*pelvic inflammatory disease - an infection caused by a sexually transmitted bacteria
These conditions may cause menstrual cramping together with other menstrual pains such as abdominal pressure, hips, lower back, and inner thigh pains, and diarrhea.
How to get rid of cramps and menstrual pain
Menstrual cramps are often easy to treat with pain relievers and hot compress. It is also recommended to have a regular exercise, proper diet, and lifestyle changes to help manage pain caused by menstrual periods.
Meanwhile, doctors may also prescribe other treatment methods such as taking hormonal birth control pills and wearing an intrauterine device. For more severe cases of menstrual cramps, surgery may be needed to help relieve pain in your uterus.
Effective menstrual medicines for menstrual pains
Over the counter pain relievers that are effective in easing cramps and menstrual pains include ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen sodium. Prescription drugs may also be taken which includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen. These drugs can be taken at the onset of your menstrual period or once the menstrual pain starts.
Are there side-effects to taking menstrual medicines?
While pain relievers are effective in easing menstrual cramping, women may also experience side-effects caused by these medications. For example, NSAIDs can induce stomach pains, constipation, dizziness, and heartburn. Other possible side effects that may be caused by medications include chest pains, slurred speech, nausea, and weight change.
Good food for cramps
A good way to prevent and manage pain caused by menstrual period is by eating foods which have anti-inflammatory properties and essential nutrients. According to livestrong.com, such foods that are good for relieving menstrual pains include omega 3 fatty fish, soy milk, legumes, and fruits and vegetables.
*Omega-3 fatty fish. Fish such as salmon and mackerel are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids which is a good source of anti-inflammatory fats. In a study published in the International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, it was found out that women who eat omega-3 fatty fish had reduced symptoms of menstrual pains and cramping. Aside from fatty fish, a good source of omega-3 are flaxseeds which are said to be rich in anti-inflammatory properties.
*Soy milk. Soy milk is an effective natural pain reliever for menstrual cramps due to its isoflavones and calcium nutrients. Isoflavones and calcium not just helps reduce symptoms of cramping but also boosts estrogen levels in the body to improve menstrual periods.
*Legumes. Legumes are rich in fiber and protein nutrients that are beneficial in reducing inflammation. A diet rich in protein can boost estrogen levels as well as limit saturated fats which causes inflammation.
*Fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are good sources of antioxidants that are effective against inflammations and which are good for managing menstrual cramps.
What are good cramps drink for menstrual pains?
If you are experiencing menstrual cramps, a cup of ginger tea can help relieve symptoms of menstrual pains and reduce inflammation. It can also help with stomach problems that are usually associated with menstruation.
[메디컬리포트=Carissa Marie 기자]