Home Remedies for Menstrual Cramps
You can manage your menstrual cramps with the following home remedies:
- Use hot water bottles, heating pads, or a warm bath to reduce muscle spasms. Be careful not to burn yourself.
- Drink herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, and raspberry teas. These help your muscles return to a resting state.
- Exercise regularly
- Empty your bladder quickly whenever you feel the need to
Over-the-counter medications that you can buy to relieve fever or pain include:
- Acetaminophen, such as Tylenol
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): ibuprofen, such as Advil or Motrin, naproxen, such as Aleve or Naprosyn, aspirin, such as Bayer or Bafferin
Before using over-the-counter medications, follow these guidelines:
- Read the directions on the box or bottle carefully.
- Do not use more than the recommended dose.
- Do not use a medication if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past.
- If you are under the care of a doctor for any reason, consult your doctor before taking any medication.
- Do not take any medication other than acetaminophen if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
- Do not give aspirin to anyone under 20 years of age unless your doctor tells you to.
Tell your doctor if you experience any of the following during home treatment:
- If you become pregnant
- If the pain gets worse
- If your menstrual cramps continue after your period
- If you develop symptoms such as fever
