Dysmenorrhea, or menstrual cramps are intense pains in the lower abdomen. Menstrual cramps are experienced by women before and during periods. Dysmenorrhea is a common condition that can cause pain for women. For some, it may be mild, but for others, it can be severe enough to stop them from doing their normal activities.
Menstrual cramps can be caused by a variety of factors, including heavy flow, uterine fibroid, pelvic inflammation disease, cervical stenosis, and passing clots. Some women experience other symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, headaches, and loose stools in addition to the pains.
Treating the probable causes of menstrual cramps is key to reducing them. Menstrual cramps do not cause other medical complications. Menstrual cramps, which are not due to underlying medical conditions, usually become less severe with age or following birth. Here are 14 home remedies that can help relieve menstrual pain until the natural relief mentioned above occurs.
1. Heat your lower abdomen
The results of a recent study on women aged between 18 and 30 with regular menstrual periods showed that a 40degC heat patch was as effective as ibuprofen, an antiinflammatory medication used to treat menstrual pain, fever and inflammation.
It is not surprising that heat therapy is used to treat pain and inflammation. Heat therapy helps to relax tight and sore muscles by relaxing blood vessels and promoting blood flow. Heat therapy is more effective than cold (icing) in treating chronic muscle pain and stiff joints.
It is easy to do. Just apply a heating pad (or a hot water bag) with the temperature prescribed (40degC), and you will feel the magic. You can buy these items at your local drugstore, or online. You can also improvise and take a hot bath or use a towel to warm up.