How to Relieve Menstrual Cramps

Cramps are caused by the contraction of the uterus during menstruation and vary in intensity from mild to debilitating.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Calcium Supplement
• Cramp Bark
• Magnesium Supplement
• Vitamin B

1. Reduce your consumption of salt, sugar and caffeine during the week before your period to prevent cramps or reduce their severity.

2. Increase your intake of calcium-rich foods such as milk, yogurt or leafy green vegetables.

3. Keep in mind that a high-potency B-complex vitamin may help if you're susceptible to menstrual cramps. Vitamin B 6 is especially important, but don't take more than 100mg per day.

4. Apply heat to your muscles when cramps occur. Take a hot bath or place a hot water bottle on your abdomen or lower back.

5. Get moving. Sitting or lying around may actually make you feel worse. Swimming and walking are good activities because they are gentle and not too stressful. Certain stretches and yoga positions will also help to relieve the pain.

6. Avoid standing for long periods if you have pain in your lower back.

7. Massage your lower back to relieve tension and pain.

8. Take ibuprofen or naproxen to help relieve cramps.

9. Take a break, breathe deeply and listen to soothing music.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are interested in using herbs and other natural remedies, consult a naturopath or a doctor who practices natural medicine.
• If you are in extreme pain, have an unusually heavy flow or notice big blood clots, or if you also have other symptoms such as vomiting and fainting, consult a doctor.

Who Can Help:

• Overweight? Lose 30+ lbs without pills or diets- guaranteed
• Arthroscopic Alternative to Spine Surgery- For Back & Neck - Free MRI Review by our Doctors. Get your life back!
• Do you suffer from back pain? Learn more about our Medicare approved back support system. Medicare covers 85% of the cost.

[norah76]

on 6/15/2009 I use to have horrible menstrual pain!! I tried a variety of drugs but nothing seemed to work. A friend of mine showed me a thing called a Anti-Menstrual Pain Band, they're made at MedicMates.com Its a very simple band that goes around your ankle (mine's bright yellow) and I love it! Applying pressure to a certain acupoint & relieves distress.

[katinagj]

on 6/11/2009 Another thing that Ive found has helped tremendously is taking Vitamin D. I found out I have a Vit D deficiency. I started taking vitamin D about a week after my period last month. During my last period I almost went to the hospital because of severe pain in my thigh, and such severe cramps! Ive been on Vitamin D for about a month now and started my period the other day. I do not even feel like I am on my period. This is the least amount of pain I have had in my entire life. So if you have severe cramps itd be a good idea to get your Vit D levels checked. Even if they are normal it would still be a good idea to take a little vitamin D

[hollyhood314]

on 4/28/2009 thank you will go take some b vitamnins right now since i have no pain killers left and it's the middle of the night lol well kinda lol actually this really hurts

[kiratrever]

on 10/15/2008 Thanks, and if all else fails, a nice cold glass of chardonnay works well too, just keep it moderate.

[thisisgreat]

on 10/11/2008 endometriosis is the worse pain.
only thing that has even come close to working after 20 years, at least 3,000mg of high quality fish oil every day, meta-genics brand.