Say goodbye to period cramps

Did you know period cramps are equivalent to a heart attack? Cramps? What is that? Period cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea, are the abdominal pain females feel during their period.

These painful contractions of the uterus can occur before, during and after a period. Reason? This construction is caused by prostaglandins, hormones which help shed the uterine lining. These contractions squeeze the blood vessels in the uterus, which then causes reduced oxygen supply and causes uncomfortable pain.

Periods are a normal part of life, but these little cramps, given the hassles, can be pretty uncomfortable in regular life, causing so much trouble. And the cramps! Have you ever felt period cramps are taking your life? Well, you are not alone in this. It is a no-brainer that they can be annoying, but what can you do to make those cramps less painful?

So, how can I reduce these cramps?

Let's start with an easy peasy one, drinking water. Yes, though it sounds way too easy given the abdominal pain, drinking adequate water can ease your period cramps.

When you are dehydrated, your body craves more water, leading to bloating and discomfort. Being hydrated improves your body's performance, acts as an internal shower, and lessens the intensity of your excruciating cramps.

A minimum of eight glasses of water should be consumed each day. And you can add your fav fruits or berries for a tasty twist. And the next thing might baffle you, but sipping decaf coffee also reduces period cramps. Though caffeine triggers headaches, muscle tension, discomfort, and worsened cramps, decaf coffee (a process through which regular coffee removes most of its caffeine. Well, that is not quintessentially zero caffeine) can help reduce these tiny sharp pains. Another alternative can be sipping some herbal teas.

Anything hot, be that water bottle, heating pad, or warm towel, can relax your muscles. All you need is to apply heat for 15-20 minutes at a time to bring some much-needed zero-cost pain relief.

Did you know certain vitamins and supplements can induce your period pains? Vitamins like D help your calcium level to increase leading to feeling less sore and less inflammation.

Supplements like Omega 3 help reduce inflammation not only in the uterus but throughout the whole body. Another painkiller is Vitamin E, which can further regulate hormones, and magnesium can help relax your muscles and reduce pain.

Well, these supplements aren't just for periods; it's best to take them regularly. However, before doing so, particularly if you are taking any kind of medicine, consult with your doctor. And It's a no-brainer that a balanced diet can help control your hormones, lower inflammation, and ease period pains.

And what we eat during the period can impact how you feel during the period. It's advisable to eat foods that are high in fibre and low in fat, like fruits, vegetables and lean protein.

Greasy and sugary foods can make your cramps worse, so avoid them. Another thing you can do to reduce these cramps is to massage gently on the lower back or abdominal areas to improve blood circulation following relief from cramping. A hot shower can always reduce your pains, be that cramps or other aches.

Though exercise is the last thing you want to do when you are having cramps, it can really help your muscles relax and release endorphins, which are mostly known as natural painkillers.

No, there is nothing like finishing a marathon or 100 pushups; simple exercises like gentle walking, stretching and yoga can make a big difference. Positions like Foetal position (The precise position of a maturing fetus's body during pregnancy), knees to your chest and lying on your back can reduce your cramps in bed.

Dealing cramps in public

Well, this can be tricky, but there are some sneaky tricks to ease the pain without drawing attention. Start with your sitting position, as it can make a huge difference. Try sitting with your knees bent or your legs.

For extra support, use a pillow or jacket. Another trick would be stretching your legs to release some additional tension. You can also sneakily massage your lower abdomen to soothe the pain.

Wearing loose and comfy clots can be a good option during these days. Deep and slow breaths can not only calm pain but will reduce your anxiety. And if things go out of your hands, there's no shame in asking for help in taking care of yourself, even if you are out and about.

What do you do to reduce period cramps? Share with the writer at [email protected]