Home Remedies to Relieve Stomach Pain during Periods

What are Menstrual Cramps?

Menstrual cramps refer to the pain in the abdomen experienced by females during periods. It occurs commonly but sometimes severe pain may occur due to other medical conditions.

What are the Causes of Menstrual Cramps?

Painful periods are a common symptom, and it is difficult to assess the cause. Some females are at a higher risk of experiencing period pain. The risk factors include:

• A family history of painful periods can be the reason for menstrual cramps in some females.
• Smoking is another contributing factor to experiencing period pain. Smoking depresses essential hormones that may result in menstrual pain.
• Irregular periods or intermittent periods may occur due to some underlying medical condition and may cause mild to moderate periods pain.
• Some girls attain puberty at an early age and start menstruating before 11 years of age. This may cause pain in the abdomen during periods. 
• High levels of prostaglandin in your body may cause period pain. Prostaglandins are chemicals secreted during periods. High levels of prostaglandins during periods can aggravate menstrual pain.

In some females, painful periods can also occur due to underlying medical causes that include the following:

• Endometriosis

  It is a painful condition in which cells from the uterine lining start growing in the other body parts, generally on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining.

• Uterine fibroids

  Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths of the uterine lining. Fibroids can put pressure on the abdomen and increase periods of pain.

• Adenomyosis

  It rarely occurs when the uterus's lining grows in the uterus's muscular walls. It may cause inflammation, pain, and pressure in the abdomen. It can also cause heavy and prolonged bleeding.

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

  It is an inflammatory condition that may produce fallopian tubes, ovaries, or uterus infection. Sexually transmitted diseases may cause it and cause pain and abnormal discharge in some women. 

Home Remedies for Stomach Pain During Periods

Home remedies are safe and effective for relieving period pain. Some home remedies for stomach pain during periods are:

• Apply Heat to the Abdomen

  It is the most common and effective way to relieve menstrual pain.  The application of heat relaxes the abdominal muscles and reduces discomfort. Place a hot water bottle or heating pad on the lower abdomen and back to relieve intense pain. You can also take a warm bath or shower to get relief. 

• Exercise and Yoga

  Gentle exercise and yoga give relief from stomach pain during periods. Exercise improves blood circulation to the pelvic area and other body parts and relieves cramps during the period.  Your body releases endorphins during exercise that ease period cramps. Walking is a gentle exercise that relaxes muscles and relieves cramps. Gentle stretching, deep breathing, and yoga poses such as cat-cow pose, child’s pose, and supine twist can relax the abdominal muscles and improve blood circulation. You can choose simple exercises that suit your body. Avoid any yoga pose that causes discomfort and increases pain in the abdomen.

• Massage

  Massage is a natural way to get relief from stomach pain during periods. You can gently massage the abdominal area as it will reduce tension and give relief from cramps. You can use a natural oil to massage your abdomen.

• Herbal Teas

  Chamomile or peppermint tea helps to alleviate period pain naturally. Chamomile and peppermint tea are soothing in nature and produce calming effects on the body. Chamomile is known for its calming properties and helps to relax muscles. Peppermint tea is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and helps to relieve bloating and abdominal discomfort. 

• Diet

  You can also make changes in your diet to manage menstrual cramps. You can add more fruits and green leafy vegetables to your diet. Add anti-inflammatory foods such as whole grains and omega-3 fatty acids foods such as flaxseeds, fatty fish, and walnuts to your diet. These foods are rich in nutrients and antioxidants that reduce inflammation and give relief from menstrual pain. Foods high in calcium and magnesium also give relief from pain. Eating a banana during periods gives quick relief.

• Rest and Enough Sleep

  During periods, you must rest and sleep properly. You must engage in self-care practices. Taking rest reduces fatigue and helps you to cope with period pain. You can also practice meditation and stress-relaxing techniques, such as engaging in hobbies you enjoy to get relief from menstrual pain. 

• Hydration

  Hydration helps to improve overall health. Drink enough water during periods to stay hydrated. It also helps in reducing bloating. A well-hydrated body can respond well to periods of pain and function optimally. You can add cucumber or lemon to the water to enhance water intake and reduce menstrual cramps.

• Reach Orgasm

  Reaching orgasm also helps relieve period cramps. When you reach an orgasm, the uterus contracts and releases. It gives relief from menstrual contractions due to the release of endorphins. You feel good as it releases tension in the abdominal muscles. 

• Over-the-Counter Medications

  If you do not get relief from the periods stomach pain home remedies, you can use over-the-counter pain-relieving medication. NSAIDS or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications relieve pain and inflammation. 

Conclusion

Most females experience menstrual cramps during their periods. Period cramps are normal, but some females experience severe periods of pain. If you do not get relief from home remedies, you must consult a doctor to diagnose it properly and get suitable treatment.