Advice On Reducing Menstrual Cycle Cramping

by JustAGirls

posted on 06/29/2009

Let's face it, sometimes it's just no fun being a woman. Being on your period once a month can be debilitating and stressful. It often interferes with our ability to function as we would like. The pain can be absolutely overwhelming for some women.

I have heard many women ask what they can do to reduce cramping during their menstrual cycle. Being a woman who asked that question many times myself, I would like to share what I have discovered.

Firstly, always drink a lot of water (more then usual) just before, during, and right after your period. The water helps keep the process rolling along smoothly. Since you are bleeding and releasing a lot of fluids, you can quickly become dehydrated and this may hinder the natural process.

Stay away from caffeine while you are on your period! Caffeine has been shown to increase the blood flow, widen blood vessels, and cause an increase in cramping. I know I personally can always tell a difference and I end up paying for it later.

If you can, try to use only pads for your menstrual cycle instead of tampons. Using pads are good for several reasons. Not only will you be likely to experience less cramping, but this will also allow your body to release all of the tissues and fluid as nature intended. Because tampons absorb liquid only, you are often left with a dryer mucus and cervical tissue inside. This makes it harder for your body to push what's left out. The tampons can also cause further irritation to your, already sore, body where it's been inserted.

Heat has been shown to alleviate cramping as well. I find that a hot bath is best for me because I can surround my entire abdomen and other sore areas with the hot water. You can also use heating pads and hot water bottles. Just rest them on your abdomen or lower back (wherever you feel the most pain).

My best friend during my menstrual cycle cramping has to be Ibuprofen. This over the counter medication works really well at reducing and often stopping period cramps. The trick to getting the most out of Ibuprofen though, is to take it before your cramping starts. Or, just when you first get even a hint of cramps. If you wait and take it in mid cramping, you will feel like it's never going to work. Maybe it's just me, but it feels like if I wait too long, it just doesn't work as well.

So you see, all hope is not lost. There are some things you can do to reduce your menstrual cycle cramping. Just try to relax and remember, the pain will pass.

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