Relief from Menstrual Pains
Menstrual cramps can cause mild to severe discomfort in the lower abdomen, lower back, or thighs. The pain begins just before or during your period. During this time, you may also have headaches, diarrhea or constipation, nausea, and dizziness. Not all women experience menstrual cramps, but cramps can be a normal part of your body’s functioning.
To relieve menstrual cramps:
- Apply heat to your abdomen with a heating pad, hot water bottle, or a hot shower. You may find that the heat can work as well as painkillers.
- Lie down and elevate your legs with a pillow under your knees.
- Lie on your side and draw your knees into your chest. This will take pressure off your lower back.
- Try using sanitary pads instead of tampons.
- Exercise regularly and maintain a regular exercise routine.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can help relieve pain. Take your prescribed dose the day before your period starts.
- If NSAIDs don’t relieve your pain, try acetaminophen, such as Tylenol.
- Read the instructions on the medication before taking it. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking the medication. Do not give aspirin to anyone under 20 years of age because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
Hormonal birth control pills can also help relieve pain. They come in different forms, and include different hormones in different ways (pills, injections, etc.). Most of them are designed to be taken every day for 3 weeks, followed by a week off. There are also some that you can take every 3 months or even every day of the year. You may have spotting or unexpected bleeding during the first year of use.
