How to Get Relief from Menstrual Cramps Naturally

Menstrual cramps are a normal and common symptom of a woman's monthly menstration cycle. Menstrual cramps occur when muscles in your uterus contract to shed the lining. When the uterus contracts, it can press against blood vessels thus sqeezing them. This results in the oxygen supply being cut off for brief moments which causes pain and cramping. They can occur days before and during your cycle.

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To help with the pain, here are ten safe and effective ways to get natural relief. For most women, relief comes after a short time. If your period cramps seems severe or you are not able to get relief, check with a doctor or other health professional to rule out more serious health issues.

The following are ten safe and effective ways to get relief from menstrual cramps naturally.

1. Hydrate well

Drinking more water may help ease bloating, which makes symptoms worse. Aim to drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water per day, especially during your period. Add some mint or a slice of lemon if your have trouble drinking plain water.

2. Apply heat

Applying heat to the abdomen during your period can help relax your muscles and relieve painful cramps. This can be done by using a hot water bottle or heating pad. 

3. Eat well

Increase consumption of fruits, leafy green vegetables, fiber, eggs, and fish. Begin a week before you expect your period. Reduce caffeine, sugar, fried or spicy foods.

4. Exercise

Exercise may not seem ideal for most women during this time however it may provide pain relief. Exercise releases endorphins, which are nature's natural pain relievers. Stick to less strenuous exercises such as walking, gentle stretching, and swimming.

5. Drink herbal tea

Your body will thank you for swapping your coffee for herbal tea during your period. There are so many herbal teas available on the market but anything containing raspberry leaf, chamomile, cinnamon, ginger or peppermint is what you should look out for and introduce to your diet.

6. Yoga

Yoga can help you develop relaxation techiques that may help with period pain.

7. Take a bath

Add some lavender bath salts to your water. The lavender scent helps calm and relax your body.

8. Manage Stress

Our hectic lives stress out every system, especially our reproductive system. When you experience stress of any kind, your body responds by producing adrenaline, and this can cause an overproduction of cortisol (the dreaded belly fat hormone). High levels of these stress hormones can affect liver function and can contribute to both PMS and cramping in the second half of your cycle. Meditation, breathing exercises and journaling have all been shown to reduce stress and its negative effects on the body.

9. Aromatherapy

A simple, yet satisfying approach to combating menstrual cramps is aromatherapy. Give  yourself a massage over the area of pain using a blend of aromatic plant extracts and essential oils. This can greatly reduce cramping and inflammation of the uterus. It does this by promoting the release of hormones to your brain.

10. Sleep well

Everyone knows how important sleep is for maintaining good health. Falling asleep during your period however can be a real struggle. It is during this time that you may be experiencing cramps, headaches, and mood swings. To make your sleep a little more easier try sleeping in the fetal position. Sleeping in this position helps relax your muscles around the stomach and reduces pain.

How do you get relief from your menstrual cramps?