Period cramps refer to painful sensations that people may experience before or during their period. In some cases, the discomfort can be so severe that it affects daily activities. However, there are many options available that may help provide relief from painful periods.
Dysmenorrhea is a medical term that refers to a specific condition where a person experiences severe and frequent painful cramps during their period. Research suggests that 16–90% of people who menstruate experience dysmenorrhea, with up to 29% describing the pain as severe.
Painful periods are a common problem, and the pain can range from dull and bothersome to so extreme that it may affect daily life and activities. Usually, the pain is present in the lower abdomen and lower back.
This article provides a list of potential remedies that may help manage symptoms of painful period cramps.
Menstruation typically occurs roughly every
This motion encourages the womb to expel excess tissue and blood, which builds up in preparation for pregnancy. The excess lining flows out of the body along with menstrual blood.
When the womb contracts, it can cause cramps or throbbing pains in the lower belly. People may start feeling cramps a day or two before their period starts. Period cramps tend to last for a few days. Everyone who menstruates experiences these contractions; however, some people do not notice them, while others experience severe discomfort.
In roughly
Period pain is usually worse in people under 20 and may get better or even go away entirely within a few years of their first period. For others, period pain may become milder after the birth of their first child.
In some cases, people may experience dysmenorrhea, which is the medical term for painful menstrual periods. Dysmenorrhea can be either primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is a lower abdominal pain during the menstrual cycle that does not relate to other conditions. Secondary dysmenorrhea is period pain that stems from a medical problem, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
If cramping pain begins to interrupt daily life, then a doctor or another healthcare professional may be able to help.
Learn more about period cramps here.
Period cramps are a widespread, painful sensation that many people who menstruate experience at some point in their lives. Many individuals may find relief by using natural remedies, such as:
Click here to learn more about home remedies for period pain.
Period cramps are widespread and come with varying degrees of severity. Many people may benefit from OTC remedies, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and dietary supplements.
NSAIDs may help reduce the pain of period cramps and lower levels of prostaglandins. However, more research is necessary to show the effectiveness and safety.
Some people may experience significant pain from period cramps. If the other methods do not provide relief, then a doctor may prescribe:
Learn about the most common side effects of birth control pills here.
Some frequently asked questions about period cramps may include:
Some
Learn more about what to eat during a period here.
Learn more about vitamins and supplements here.
Some essential oils may help ease the discomfort of period cramps. A
Learn all about essential oils here.
Most people will experience painful periods at some point in their lives. This is typically due to period cramps, which are painful contractions that allow the body to shed the uterus lining.
Even though the discomfort from period cramps can be significant, individuals can often find relief with self-care and OTC remedies, such as gentle exercise, heat treatments, and NSAIDs. Herbs, dietary changes, essential oils, and acupuncture may also help. If these treatments are not effective, doctors can prescribe medications that can help to manage symptoms.
Last medically reviewed on June 15, 2021
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