by Eileen Eva

Created on: September 28, 2010

Menstrual pain or cramps also referred to as Dysmenorrhea is a dull pain normally in the lower abdomen that comes before or during menstruation. According to MedlinePlus, “It’s a top reason of absenteeism from school/work amongst teens and women on their 20s.” It happens when the uterus wall contracts in order for the blood and menstrual tissues to be expelled. The pain at times can move to the thighs or the lower back. Nausea, dizziness, sweating and loose stools are other symptoms that may accompany the pain. Most women experience this pain, but they can differ with age. As a young woman continues to age, the pain may ease.

There are 2 different types of menstrual pain, primary and secondary pains. Primary pain is experienced during your first several years of your first periods. This pain has no physical abnormality. The body produces prostaglandins, said to cause the pain. Secondary pain, involves physical causes like uterine fibroids and polyps, pelvic inflammatory disease and endometriosis.

When you experience this pain, you don’t have dash to the pharmacy or doctor, but can opt for home remedies to cure menstrual pain. Some natural remedies have proven to be promising but others still need more research to be announced effective. Below are home remedies proven to ease menstrual pain.

• Omega-3 fatty acids: These are normally found in mackerel, anchovies, salmon and sardines. They can also be available in capsules as they are PCBs and mercury free and are most preferable. There is a correlation among menstrual pain and diet. Fish oil intake has a constructive outcome in getting rid of menstrual pain. Fish oil has 2 compounds called docosahexaenoic (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA) acids that are known to decrease the levels of prostaglandin produced by the body.  

• Magnesium: Can help ease menstrual pain. It’s best when in its natural form. Naturally, this mineral is abundant in nuts, whole grains and green leafy veggies. Magnesium is said to be required for over 300 biochemical reactions to take place. It helps in regulating blood sugar levels, and required for normal heart rhythm, blood pressure, nerve and muscle function, and healthy bones. Studies carried out have shown that magnesium is a fast pain relief substance in comparison to other painkillers making it a remedy for menstrual pain.

• Exercises: Jogging and walking are simple exercises that improve the symptoms of menstrual pain. This is because the exercises help in releasing a brain chemical called beta-endorphins that help in blocking the pain and also in reducing the levels of prostaglandins.

• Stretching the Involved Muscles:  Can also help get rid of menstrual pain. This works by stretching the muscles that contribute to this pain. The iliopsoas muscles are located on the pelvis that run from the lower spine to the upper thigh and when tight, they are said to cause menstrual pain.

• Herbal Remedies: There are several herbs that contain aesculetin and scopoletin which reduce muscle spasms e.g. the Black haw, Raspberry leaf tea relaxes the uterus, Ginger tea is said to have 6 anti cramping elements, phytoestrogens found in Red clover will regulate your estrogen levels and Squaw vine has been used to ease labour during childbirth and can also be used on menstrual cramps.

Remember, if you try any or a combination of the above remedies and the pain does not ease but increases, it is wise to seek medical advice.

Sources:

MedlinePlus - Painful menstrual periods

University of Maryland Medical Center – Menstrual Pain (Herbs)

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