Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

Many women have painful menstrual cramps just before, or at the start of their menses. The pain from menstrual cramps can range from mild to severe and can involve the lower abdomen, back, or thighs. Some women also have headaches, fainting, nausea, diarrhea or constipation. Stress and tension can make symptoms worse. Painful periods are most common in younger women and often become less severe with age or after childbirth.

Menstrual Cramp Symptoms

• Cramping pain in your lower abdomen.
• Pain in the lower back and thighs.
• Heavier blood loss than usual.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Headache.
• Dizziness and fainting.

Home Remedies for Menstrual Cramps

• Hot compress: Apply heat to abdomen using a heating pad or a hot water bottle.
• Cumin and aloe vera: Chew one teaspoon roasted cumin seeds slowly, followed with one teaspoon of aloe vera juice.
• Aloe vera and black pepper: Take 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel with two pinch of black pepper three times a day.

Do’s for Menstrual Cramps

• Eat foods rich in vitamin B6 such as bananas, soya, and nuts.
• Do yoga.
• Exercise regularly such as brisk walk as it stimulates muscles to produce
  natural painkilling chemicals called endorphins.
• Try practicing deep breathing and muscle relaxation exercises.

Don’ts for Menstrual Cramps

• Try to avoid stress and tasks that is physically or mentally tiring.
• If you smoke, stop smoking. As smoking increases the strength and
  duration of menstrual cramps.

See Doctor

• If above measures are not helping to control pain.
• Have bleeding between periods.
• Have offensive vaginal discharge or pain continues even after your
  menses.

See doctor immediately:

• Have severe lower abdominal pains or vaginal bleeding and if suspect you
  are pregnant.

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