Drop that painkiller! These hacks will help you handle menstrual cramps like a boss

Can anything be as annoying as period cramps? Hell, forget annoying–for some, they can be so dreadful that scores of women survive on painkillers as menstrual cramps remedies for the entire course of their chums.

If you are one of them, then here’s a heads up: painkillers for menstrual cramps must be used for dire situations only. Dr Nupur Gupta, consultant gynaecologist and obstetrician, and director Well Woman Clinic in Gurugram, says: “You should take the pill only and only when the pain is unbearable. Otherwise, it’s better to steer clear of them.”

But what about the pain? Well, go holistic sister! With these five simple hacks you can bid adieu to painkillers:

1. Ginger, the harbinger of relief
Home remedies are the best way to get relief during menstrual cramps. Sip on that cup of ginger tea (minus the milk and sugar) to knock the cramps out of the park. Wondering how ginger can help those dreadful cramps? Read this to know more.

2. Get a massage
Sounds good right? Well, according to a Korean study from 2005, getting your abdomen area massaged during your periods, can alleviate cramps by directing blood flow to the affected area. Moreover, it can also loosen up stiffness in your abdomen area and help you relax.

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3. Stay active
While you can still debate whether or not you should exercise during your periods, when we talk about being active–we’re talking life long. Researchers at the University of California found that women who exercised regularly experiences less severe period cramps and pain as compared to women who were sedentary.

Also read: My #momsays jaggery can relieve period pain. And Ayurveda has her back!

4. Use a hot compress
This tried-and-tested home remedy never fails. Whether you use a heating pad or a hot-water bottle–you can expect instant relief from period cramps. The warmth relaxes the abdomen muscles and streamlines the flow.
Remember: you are a tough cookie to crack. So don’t give into the allure of painkillers until your gynaecologist advises you to and kick those period cramps to the curb–holistically.

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