Painful periods can really make you dread that week or so each month. For some women, periods can be so painful that it has a negative impact on their lifestyle, whether it be their work, family time, or just living. Even periods that are somewhat painful can have a negative impact on a woman’s mood and emotional well-being. If you have painful cramping each month, here are seven natural ways to put that pain behind you for good!
Natural Supplements
Magnesium and calcium (calcium citrate) supplements taken all month can help the muscles stay more relaxed. When the uterus sheds the lining each month, the muscle of the uterus contracts. These uterine contractions the blood vessels become constricted. This reduces the blood flow and causes the cramping and pain. Taking 1000 mg of calcium and 500 mg of magnesium per day can help maintain muscle relaxation; you may have to adjust the dose to what works for you (Bianchi).
Natural Teas
Natural raspberry leaf tea can be an effective remedy for painful periods. This herbal tea (rather than “raspberry flavored” tea) not only may get you some relief, but has a delicious taste and is so soothing. Organic raspberry leaf tea can be found in your local health-food store (Bianchi).
Decrease Coffee Intake
Caffeine causes blood vessels to constrict, and this includes the blood vessels to the uterus (Bianchi). As it is very difficult to stop caffeine if you are a coffee lover, try to gradually cut back to half-decaf and half-caffeinated throughout the month. If you are up to it, avoiding caffeine the week before you period is due may help tremendously.
Avoid Foods that cause Inflammation
Grains, vegetable oils, and dairy foods may cause inflammation and can intensify hormonal imbalances and difficulties. Many women that switch over to a grain and dairy-free diet see the positive difference in their cramping each month. Focusing on bone broth soups, organic, grass-fed beef, and the healthy fats (coconut oil, natural butter) may reduce the inflammation in the body.
Eat Natural, Leafy Greens
Dark, organic, leafy greens are an ideal source of calcium and magnesium (and other amazing nutrients!) and can help with those period contractions. Dark, leafy greens are cleansing to the body, too, and not only help with cramping but can help with bloating as well. Also, they are good for you, so it’s a win-win!
Apply Heat
For some women, a hot water bottle or heating pad relieves muscle cramping almost immediately. They can be applied anywhere (they even make heat “pads” to put under clothing!) and feel extremely soothing and can help you relax.
Acupuncture
Cramping due to menstruation can be minimized with acupuncture. There are acupuncture points that aid the flow of blood throughout the abdomen, and when applied, can help the nervous system relax. Acupuncture is a great alternative to ibuprofen and acetaminophen on a regular basis.
These natural remedies may help you find relief each month. If your cramping seems severe and doesn’t seem to decrease with the help of one or more of these aids (you can combine them if you wish) then you should probably see your doctor for more advice.
Bianchi, Jeannie. “From Our Acupuncturist: 6 Ways to Reduce Period Pain.” Health Tips and Medical Advice from San Francisco NYC DC Boston and Chicago Doctors One Medical Group From Our Acupuncturist 6 Ways to Reduce Period Pain Comments. One Medical Group, 2015. Web. 15 Jan. 2016. <http://www.onemedical.com/blog/live-well/from-our-acupuncturist-6-ways-to-reduce-period-pain/>