Struggling with period pain? Forget the painkiller, try these 3 natural hacks instead

We’ve all experienced cramps during our periods, but sometimes they can be really hard to bear. If you’re someone who suffers with debilitating cramps, then you could have dysmenorrhea. And it may sound surprising, but it’s very common. More than half of the women who menstruate report some pain from cramps every month, research suggests.  

In most cases, cramps are not viewed as a serious health condition, although in some cases they could be the cause of poor lifestyle habits. 

Before we get to the remedies, let’s understand the causes of these period cramps. 

Why are period cramps so painful?

Dysmenorrhea or severe period pain is caused by compounds called prostaglandins, and before menstruation begins every month, the level of these hormones in the lining of the uterus goes up. 

The level of prostaglandins in your body is the highest on the first day of your period, and as your period progresses, and the uterine lining is shed, the prostaglandin levels go down, and the pain gets better. 

Most of the time the pain can be treated at home, but in case you just can’t tolerate the cramps, then it’s better to consult a doctor. 

Natural period hacks to tackle the pain and cramps 

Here’s what you can do to treat period cramps at home in an effective manner: 

1. Try some yoga poses

We all know how yoga has the answer to everything, and it helps in the case of period cramps too! Whether it’s stretching your muscles or relaxing with some poses, regular yoga practice can help a lot.

Also, watch:

According to a study published in September 2016 in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, it was found that 20 undergraduate students who performed yoga for an hour once a week for three months, suffered from less menstrual cramping.

The only thing to remember is to steer clear of inverted poses, when you are menstruating.

2. Turn to a heating pad

Experts suggest that applying heat to the uterus helps relax the muscles, and can be beneficial when it comes to period cramps. According to a study published in Evidence-Based Nursing, it was found that topically applied heat was just as effective as ibuprofen for period cramps.

There were some women who used heat alone, and the results were effective as popping a pill during that time of the month.

A review published in March 2014 in The Journal of Physiotherapy also found that heat significantly reduced a woman’s period pain.

Also, watch:

3. Sip on some herbal tea

There are some teas that are particularly helpful when it comes to treating period cramps. They have been used by women of various cultures, because they work so well! Chamomile and peppermint teas are often recommended for menstrual pain because they calm the body. Other teas that help are ginger, or fennel.

So ladies, try these natural hacks before you reach out to that pill!