how to fix period cramps

Common Causes

• Use a heating pad on your lower abdomen or lower back
• Take a warm bath
• Place a hot water bottle on lower abdomen or lower back
• Massage your abdomen
• Ask your doctor about using an over-the-counter pain reliever or anti-inflammatory drug
• Do an easy exercise like yoga, walking, or swimming to help increase blood flow

Related Conditions

Here are some yoga poses to help with your period cramps

• Bound Angle Pose - Baddha Konasana. ...
• Reclined Bound Angle - Supta Baddha Konasana. ...
• Child’s Pose - Balasana. ...
• Wide-Angle Seated Forward Bend - Upavistha Konasana. ...
• Reclining Twist – Bharadvaja. ...
• Inverted leg pose - Viparita Karani. ...
• Head to knee forward bend - Janu Sirsasana. ...

How to make cramps better during your period?

• Ibuprofen can provide period pain relief . ...
• Exercise – Keeping active can help reduce pain as it releases endorphins, which are feel good chemicals that reduce pain and muscle aches
• Heat – Placing a heat pad or hot water bottle on the stomach may help reduce pain as it stimulates blood flow

More items...

What relieves cramps from period?

Try These 10 Remedies

1. Use a heat patch. Using a heated patch or wrap on your abdomen can help relax the muscles of your uterus. ...
2. Massage your tummy with essential oils. Research suggests that some essential oils can help ease period cramps when massaged onto the abdomen, especially when used in a blend of ...
3. Take an OTC pain reliever. ...
4. Exercise. ...
5. Soak in a tub. ...
6. Do yoga. ...

More items...

How do you reduce period cramps?

What is the best natural remedy for menstrual cramps?

How to stop cramps during period?

What is the best medication for period cramps?

What essential oils help with cramps?

How long does it take for cramps to go away?

How to get rid of a swollen thigh?

How to get rid of pelvic pain?

What to do if your period is painful?

See 4 more

About this website

Why are my periods so so painful?

Period pain happens when the muscular wall of the womb tightens (contracts). Mild contractions continually occur in your womb, but they're usually so mild that most women cannot feel them. During your period, the wall of the womb starts to contract more vigorously to help the womb lining shed as part of your period.

What position helps period cramps?

Sleep in the fetal position: If you're normally a back or stomach sleeper, try rolling to your side and tucking in your arms and legs. This position takes pressure off your abdominal muscles and is the best sleeping position to relieve tension that can make cramping worse.

How long should cramps last?

They usually last about one to three days. They may start strong and feel better as the hours pass, or come and go more randomly. Cramps can be barely noticeable, or quite painful or severe (2). 1 in 10 people experience pain levels that can affect their daily activities for 1-3 days each cycle.

What drink is good for cramps?

Drinking chamomile, fennel or ginger tea is an easy, natural way to relieve menstrual cramps. Plus, these herbal teas can have other benefits, like stress relief and helping with insomnia.

Does lying on your stomach help period cramps?

Sleeping in the foetal position can help ease cramps and period pain, by reducing pressure on the abdominal muscles. Sleeping on your back or on your side, such as in the recovery position can also be helpful. However, sleeping your stomach is not recommended.

Does standing help period cramps?

Standing up can ease the blood circulation your body. For the forward fold pose, you need to stand up and bend your upper body towards your toes. You can hold your elbows by your hands. The forward fold pose can help to ease the pain behind the neck area and makes blood circulation easier.

What is the best position to sleep on your period?

In fact, we asked a few experts about the best way to sleep when you're on your period, and they unanimously agreed on one position: the fetal position. "Sleeping in the fetal position takes pressure off the abdominal muscles," explains Lisa Lindley, M.D., board-certified gynecologist with Eisenhower Women's Health.

How do you stop period cramps at school?

Here are some things you can try: 1) make sure to get plenty of calcium on a regular basis (three low-fat servings a day) will help your cramps be less of a pain, 2) exercise both on and off your period helps lessen pain, 3) try taking ibuprofen (as long as you are not allergic and have your parents' approval; be sure ...

Improving Your Diet Will Help Alleviate Period Cramps

Research has shown that reducing fat and increasing vegetables in your diet may help ease monthly cramps. "A low-fat diet actually decreases overal...

Pop A Safe Painkiller to Cut The Inflammation

Not everyone wants to turn to medicine to soothe period cramps, but moderate use of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID), such as Ad...

Some Herbal Tea Varieties Can Calm Cramping

Certain teas may help relieve menstrual cramps, says Sonya Angelone, a registered dietitian nutritionist in the San Francisco Bay area.Research on...

Try Fish Oil and Vitamin B1 For Natural Relief

Another natural route to period cramp relief is taking fish oil supplements, vitamin B1, or both, according to research published in September 2014...

Acupuncture May Help by Relaxing The Nervous System

Acupuncture can help relieve cramps, says Jeannie Bianchi, a licensed acupuncturist in San Francisco. "We're relaxing the nervous system," she says...

Massage With Essential Oils For Pain Relief

Massage with certain aromatic essential oils (such as lavender essential oil, clary sage essential oil, or marjoram essential oil) can also relieve...

Curl Up With A Heating Pad to Ease Period Cramps

"[Use of] a heating pad has been studied, and it seems to work," says Palmieri. Indeed, one small study published in 2001 in Evidence-Based Nursing...

Boost Those Feel-Good Endorphins With Exercise (or Orgasms)

In addition to their pain-relieving effect, endorphins can also boost your mood. Having an orgasm releases endorphins, Palmieri says. Working out d...

Up The Magnesium in Your Diet to Help Nerve and Muscle Function

Dietary magnesium seems to help ease the pain of cramps, says DeJarra Sims, ND, an assistant professor of naturopathic medicine at Bastyr Universit...

Birth Control Pills May Lessen Painful Cramping, Too

The odds are that your birth control pills may help relieve painful cramps, as reported in a Cochrane review of 10 studies that was published in Oc...

How to get rid of muscle cramps in your legs - Harvard Health

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift. The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness, is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School. Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health, plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise, pain relief, blood pressure ...

13 Ways to Get Rid of Period Cramps - wikiHow

That time of the month is never any fun, especially if it comes with painful and debilitating cramps. Fortunately, there are many different things you can try to relieve cramping. And while there's probably nothing you can do to prevent...

How to stop cramps from getting worse?

Stress may make cramps worse. Use stress relief techniques like meditation, deep breathing, yoga or your own favorite way to relieve stress. If you’re not sure how to relieve stress, try guided imagery. Simply close your eyes, take a deep breath and imagine a calm, safe place that’s significant to you. Stay focused on this space for at least a few minutes while you take slow, deep breaths.

How does birth control help with cramps?

Birth control can stop period pain if cramps are caused by a hormone imbalance. Balancing your levels of estrogen and progesterone helps thin the uterine lining so it sheds more easily. Hormonal birth control also regulates the length and frequency of your period. Some forms of birth control can completely alleviate period cramps by stopping your period altogether. Talk to your OB-GYN about birth control options, including the pill, birth control shot or hormonal IUD. Then, you’ll be able to choose the type of birth control that works best for you.

What causes cysts in the ovaries?

Many women develop at least one small cyst every month that naturally fades. However, some women have multiple or large ovarian cysts which can cause pain or complications. In these cases, medical treatment might be needed to manage the cysts. Ovarian cysts can also be caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This is a condition where a hormone imbalance causes many small, harmless cysts to grow in the ovaries. This can cause painful periods, difficulty getting pregnant, insulin resistance and other health concerns. Symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, excess hair on the face and body, weight gain, difficulty losing weight, acne and thinning hair on the head. A doctor can prescribe treatments that help manage PCOS symptoms.

How does acupressure help you relax?

Some people find relief with alternative medicine practices like acupuncture and acupressure. Acupuncture is a practice that stimulates the body by placing needles in the skin. Acupressure stimulates the body without needles by putting pressure on certain points of the body. These practices can help you relax, release muscle tension and improve blood flow throughout your body.

What is the cause of PMS?

Doctors think PMS is caused by estrogen and progesterone levels dipping before the beginning of each period. PMS has many symptoms including fatigue, irritability and menstrual cramps.

What is the best tea for cramps?

Drinking chamomile, fennel or ginger tea is an easy, natural way to relieve menstrual cramps. Plus, herbal teas can have other benefits like stress relief and helping with insomnia.

Why does coffee make my period worse?

Caffeine causes your blood vessels to narrow. This can constrict your uterus, making cramps more painful. If you need your coffee fix, switch to decaf during your period. If you rely on caffeine to beat the afternoon slump, eat a snack high in protein or take a quick 10-minute walk to boost your energy.

What to do when you have cramps?

This won't help you much if you only do this when your cramps set in—this is a lifestyle change. Make adjustments gradually, replacing refined grains like white bread and pasta with whole grains and eliminating processed and fried foods.

How to help with cramps in back?

Place the heating pad on your tummy or lower back to ease cramps. Heat also improves blood flow, which can help with cramping. For some people, heat is even more effective than an over-the-counter pain reliever. [3]

How to stop cramps from a sprained ear?

1. Deep breathing exercises can reduce the intensity of cramps. For an easy breathing exercise, sit in a comfortable position and turn your thoughts to your breath. Inhale slowly through your nose, imagining your lungs filling with air from the bottom to the top.

How to relieve cramps in lower back?

You might put a pillow between your knees as well. Lying on your back with a pillow under your knees can also help. For a bonus, put a heating pad on your abdomen or cover yourself with a weighted blanket.

What supplements can help with cramps?

Studies show omega-3 and magnesium supplements might ease cramps. Vitamins E, B-1 (thiamin), and B-6 also help some people reduce the intensity of their cramps. Talk to your doctor before taking any nutritional supplements, especially if you're taking medication for other conditions.

How much water should I drink before my period?

People who drink at least 1600 mL (about 54 ounces) of water a day before and during their periods are less likely to need anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce the pain from cramps.

What to do if you don't get enough pain relief?

If you don't get enough pain relief, talk to your doctor. They might approve a larger dose or prescribe a stronger pain medication that will work better for you.

How to help with cramps during period?

To help reduce period pain, here are 10 safe and effective home remedies for menstrual cramp relief. 1. Try Some Yoga Poses to Ease Menstrual Pain. Whether it's the stretching of your muscles or the relaxing effect of the poses, a regular yoga practice can indeed help your cramps.

How to relieve cramps during menstruation?

Massage With Essential Oils for Pain Relief. Massaging your skin with certain aromatic essential oils can relieve menstrual cramp pain, according to research published in The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research.

Why Are Period Cramps Painful?

Dysmenorrhea is thought to be caused by compounds in the body known as prostaglandins. Before menstruation starts each month, the level of prostaglandins in the lining of the uterus increases.

What is the best medication for period pain?

Moderate use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) is one of the best ways to curb period pain, Thielen says. This is because NSAIDs reduce the amount of prostaglandins in the body.

What question do doctors ask when determining whether your cramps are normal?

The main question doctors ask when determining whether your cramps are normal is “Are they normal for you?” Dr. Thielen says.

Why does my period hurt so bad?

As your period progresses and the lining of the uterus is shed , your prostaglandin level decreases and pain gets better , ACOG states.

How to ease cramps from endometriosis?

RELATED: 5 Simple Yoga Moves for Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Relief. 2. Curl Up With a Heating Pad to Ease Period Cramps. “The uterus is a muscle, so anything that helps relax muscles, like applying heat, can be beneficial, Thielen says.

Where do you feel cramps during your period?

Perimenstrual cramps. Pain starts before your period and lasts during menstruation. It can be felt in the lower back and thighs.

How to get rid of menstrual pain?

You need to add oil-rich fish like salmon to your diet to get as much fat as you need. Try to eat it 2-3 times per week to get all the benefits . Doctors have found that fish oil leads to a reduction in menstrual pain. Moreover, you will forget about taking ibuprofen. If you don’t like eating fish or have an allergy, you can just take a daily supplement with Omega 3 fats.

How to get rid of cramps in back?

Yes, you can get rid of cramps easily with the help of a heating pad. Try starting with five minutes of heat therapy two times per day or when the pain is annoying. It will help you feel better and cope with cramps. Moreover, if you suffer from back, neck, or other pains, it will greatly help.

Why does my period hurt?

Mostly, menstrual pain happens because of the overproduction of inflammatory chemicals (prostaglandins). As a result, inflammation causes spasms, cramping, and pain in your uterus. When this happens, you likely will want to pop ibuprofen, lay on the sofa with a heating pad, and just watch TV until the pain is gone. The problem is that while ibuprofen may relieve period pain, the pills can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, which is dangerous and potentially harmful.

What is the best way to relieve cramps?

It is not the best option, but, if you need to get rid of pain quickly and do not have time for natural remedies, you can try to pop a pill. Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium lessen pain and reduce cramps overall.

How much ginger should I take for period cramps?

It is also a good remedy for teenagers. The effective dose is 500 mg three times per day.

How to calm your mind and body?

Create a perfect relaxing evening. Take a bath with your favorite bubbles and then add some of your skincare rituals. The warm water will help calm your muscles and your mind. If you don’t have a bathtub, a warm shower can be soothing, too.

What to do if you have cramps during your period?

First of all, if you suffer from period cramps you should contact your doctor or health care provider to exclude such serious problems as endometriosis , fibroids or pelvic inflammatory disease which need special treatment. But if serious causes of period cramps are excluded you can think about methods of reducing the pain and discomfort.

How to help cramps during menstruation?

Taking a hot bath or shower for quite a long time can help to ease pain. Other heat source like the use of heat pad, warm water bottle, can also help to give cramp relief.

How to get rid of cramps in women?

Getting involved in various exercises such as walking, swimming, running and others can help to keep your body active at all time. Medical research has found sport women to have less pain or menstrual cramps in relation to other women. Therefore, exercising is a great way to relieve yourself of that pain.

Why is it important to know your menstrual cycle?

Full knowledge of your menstrual cycle can help to determine a lot about your health. Long period of waiting for your menstruation could be a sign of pregnancy so you should take note of this. Irregular menstrual cycle can be an indication of hormonal change or thyroid issues and lots more.

What to do if you have high blood flow during your period?

The best solution is to visit your healthcare provider to seek advice and guidance on what to do. Exclude such serious problems as endometriosis, fibroids or pelvic inflammatory disease which need special treatment.

What is the best supplement for menstrual cramps?

Consumption of vitamin D. Vitamin D can help to reduce the production of prostaglandins which initiates painful menstrual periods. Vitamin D supplements are what you take for bad menstrual cramps.

What foods should I eat during my period?

Some of the prescribed foods for consumption are as follows: Broccoli: this food has a high fiber content that can help fight against menstrual symptoms.

What to do if you have cramps during your period?

If your menstrual cramps are caused by a disorder such as endometriosis or fibroids, surgery to correct the problem might help your symptoms. Surgical removal of the uterus also might be an option if other approaches fail to ease your symptoms and if you're not planning to have children.

How to help cramps during menstruation?

Treatment. To ease your menstrual cramps, your doctor might recommend: Pain relievers. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve), at regular doses starting the day before you expect your period to begin can help control the pain of cramps. Prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory ...

What are some ways to help with menstrual cramps?

However, some alternative treatments might help, including: Acupuncture. Acupuncture involves inserting extremely thin needles through your skin at strategic points on your body.

How to get rid of cramps in lower abdomen?

Use heat. Soaking in a hot bath or using a heating pad, hot water bottle or heat patch on your lower abdomen might ease menstrual cramps. Try dietary supplements.

What supplements can help with cramps?

A number of studies have indicated that vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B-1 (thiamin), vitamin B-6 and magnesium supplements might reduce menstrual cramps. Reduce stress. Psychological stress might increase your risk of menstrual cramps and their severity.

How long should I take pain reliever before my period?

Start taking the pain reliever at the beginning of your period, or as soon as you feel symptoms, and continue taking the medicine as directed for two to three days, or until your symptoms are gone. Hormonal birth control.

Is laparoscopy necessary for menstrual cramps?

Both tests are noninvasive and painless. Laparoscopy. Although not usually necessary to diagnos is menstrual cramps, laparo scopy can help detect an underlying condition, such as endometriosis, adhesions, fibroids, ovarian cysts and ectopic pregnancy. During this outpatient surgery, your doctor views your abdominal cavity ...

How to stop cramps during period?

When your period is coming, keep a water bottle handy, and toss in some mint or a squeeze of lemon to encourage you to drink.

How to get rid of period pain?

Exercise releases brain chemicals called endorphins that make you feel good. So take a walk, jump on the treadmill, or go for a swim! Swipe to advance.

How to get rid of pain in your belly?

Touching key places on your belly, back, and feet can increase blood flow and release endorphins to soothe both your body and mind for a little while. There's also a spot in the fleshy part between your thumb and index finger that relieves aches and pain.

What is the best medicine for cramps?

Black cohosh, chasteberry, cramp bark, and turmeric have been traditionally used for pain. Evening primrose oil has also been found to help some women with cramps, but the scientific evidence isn't strong. Check with your doctor before you make a tea with any of these or take a supplement.

What essential oils are good for cramps?

Women who began rubbing a cream with a blend of lavender, clary sage, and marjoram oils on their abdomens after their period had cramps for less time during their next one. These essential oils have pain-killing compounds.

What are the best supplements for cramps?

Nutrients such as vitamins E, B1, and B6, magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids cut back on the hormone-like substances responsible for those painful cramps or help relieve muscle tension and inflammation.

How to calm your mind and body?

Treat Yourself to a Bath. Fill the tub, add some bubbles, and settle in with your favorite magazine or book (and your rubber ducky). The warm water will help calm your muscles and your mind.

How to get rid of cramps before your period?

Trattner says that doesn’t mean you head to a bootcamp class when you’re in extreme pain. Instead, she recommends adding exercise before your period to help alleviate cramps before they start. During your period (when you’re not in pain), try to take a walk or do some light activity, just to thwart those prostaglandins before they wreak havoc.

What to do when you have cramps?

Exercise. “When I have cramps, I love going for a run,” said no one — probably ever. For most of us, exercise is last on the list of things to do when you have period pain — but, it can really help. “Working out helps reduce the level of prostaglandins and regulate digestion,” says Elizabeth Trattner, licensed acupuncturist.

How much magnesium should I take for cramps?

Magnesium. “In my clinical practice, I recommend women aim for 300 mg nightly of magnesium bysglicinate to help alleviate menstrual cramps,” says Brighten. She says that magnesium can be effective in lowering prostaglandins and reducing pain.

What is the worst diet for period pain?

My dream period diet is a complete cliché — nothing but pizza, chocolate, and ice cream for a full five days. Sadly, this is the worst way to eat if you want to alleviate period pain. Processed and fried foods are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which isn’t good.

How to stop pain from medication?

Heat pads. If you want to avoid medication completely, a heat treatment may be your best option. Whether you use a hot water bottle, heating pad, or dip into a warm bath, the heat helps your muscles relax and eases pain.

What is the best medication for period pain?

The Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care states that there are only two scientifically proven ways to relieve period pain: birth control pills and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), which includes ibuprofen.

Does your period hurt when you have prostaglandins?

Typically, the more prostaglandins in your body, the worse you feel during your period. Luckily, there are ways to minimize those body chemicals and reduce your pain, though they don’t always give you the fastest relief.

How to stop pain during menstrual cycle?

Using a heating pad on your pelvic area or back, massaging your abdomen, taking a warm bath, doing regular physical exercise, and eating light and nutritious meals help a lot. ...

How common are cramps during periods?

Menstrual cramps are very common, in fact, about 10 in 9 women experience unbearable cramps just before or during their period cycle. Do you suffer from excruciating pain in the back, abdomen, back, or thigh around the time of your period? Menstrual cramps are very common, in fact, about 10 in 9 women experience unbearable cramps just ...

What is the best doctor for menstrual cramps?

If menstrual pain is interfering with your ability to perform basic tasks each month, it may be time to talk to a gynecologist, Dr Chadha advises. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and if you experience any of the following: Sudden cramping or pelvic pain could be signs of infection.

Why does my pelvis hurt so bad?

Sudden cramping or pelvic pain could be signs of infection. An untreated infection can cause scar tissue that damages the pelvic organs and may lead to infertility.

How long does it take for PMS to go away?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS): PMS is a common condition that’s caused by hormonal changes in the body occurring 1 to 2 weeks before menstruation begins. Symptoms typically go away after bleeding begins.

Why does my period hurt?

According to gynecological experts, extremely painful periods are called dysmenorrhea but more than 90 percent of women experience pain, cramping, and discomfort around the abdomen region due to uterine cramping. The uterus releases the hormone prostaglandin during menstruation to kick start the process of uterine muscular contraction, informs Dr.

Can you take caffeine during your period?

One should not take caffeine during the initial days of the period because caffeine and sugar increase the chances of bloating. If the home remedies and pain killers can’t offer much relief, then it’s time to visit a gynecologist. Unfortunately, her periods and the subsequent pain aren’t going anywhere, but at least now ...

How to stop cramps during period?

Using a heated patch or wrap on your abdomen can help relax the muscles of your uterus. It’s these muscles that cause period cramps. Heat can also boost circulation in your abdomen, which can reduce pain.

What is the best medication for period cramps?

Take an OTC pain reliever. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin (Bufferin) are effective treatments for period cramps. These medications work best if they’re taken at the first sign of cramps or pain.

What essential oils help with cramps?

Oils that seem to be most effective at reducing period cramps, due to their ability to boost circulation, include: lavender. sage. rose.

How long does it take for cramps to go away?

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ease the pain and discomfort caused by these pesky cramps. If, however, the pain doesn’t go away after a couple of days, or is so extreme that you have difficulty functioning, be sure to follow up with your doctor. Last medically reviewed on August 6, 2019.

How to get rid of a swollen thigh?

Try to relax in a warm bath for at least 15 minutes to get the most benefits from it. 6. Do yoga.

How to get rid of pelvic pain?

5. Soak in a tub. Soaking in a warm bathtub is another way to surround your pelvic muscles with the warmth they need to relax.

What to do if your period is painful?

According to a 2004 study, rubbing circles on your calf at a point above your ankle can relieve period pain.