Do you suffer awful period pain on the second day? Follow these 8 tips to ease it

So, Aunt Flo is back! Periods can be a time of discomfort overall, but are you one of those who find it tougher to deal with on the second or third day? Well, it’s safe to say you’re not alone in this. Some women report having debilitating pain, particularly on the second day of the menstrual cycle. There could be many reasons behind it. But the good news is that you can deal with it at home. Let us find out how to manage period pain on the second day of periods.

Health Shots asked Dr Asha Hiremath, Obstetrician, Gynecologist, and Laparoscopic Surgeon, Maternity Hospital, Indiranagar, Bengaluru, to explain why period pain gets worse on the second day of the menstrual cycle.

Why is period pain more painful on the second day?

Dr Hiremath explains that menstruation involves the regular shedding of blood and tissues. Due to this, the muscles in the uterus may contract to cut off blood supply and oxygen to the uterus. “When the uterus is deprived of oxygen, it releases chemicals that may trigger the pain such as prostaglandins which increases uterine contractions. This type of period pain usually occurs during the second day of your period and is termed as Dysmenorrhea,” adds the expert.

Tips to ease the second day of period pain

Period cramps can be agonising, especially on the second day. Listed below are these 8 ways to help relieve period pain.

1. Apply heat to your abdomen

Applying heat can help the muscles relax and improve blood circulation helping ease period cramps. You may opt for hot bags that can provide some relief from stomach cramps.

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2. Cut down on caffeine intake

“If you rely on coffee to function, it may not be helpful during periods because caffeine narrows down your blood vessels to narrow which may constrict your uterus causing painful cramps,” says Dr Hiremath. Here’s more about the link between caffeine and period cramps.

3. Try ajwain

Ajwain, commonly known as carom seeds, is not only the secret to curing digestive problems, but can also ease period pain. It is a useful medicinal therapy that can treat pain and cramps because of its high content of carbohydrates, fat, protein, fiber, saponins, flavour and minerals such as calcium, iron, iodine, manganese and thiamine.

4. Summer foods

You can feel relaxed by eating some foods such as dark chocolate, avocado, salmon, green leafy vegetables, and broccoli. Consuming these foods helps reduce inflammation and ease other menstrual cramps.

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5. Stay hydrated

Dr Hiremath says, “Lack of water intake results in bloating causing discomfort making menstrual cramps worse.” Drinking hot water helps increase the blood flow throughout your body which in turn relaxes your muscles. So don’t forget to drink water.

6. Drink herbal teas

Besides water, herbal teas help relieve contractions in the uterus which causes cramping due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, its soothing effect helps you relax and destress. You can drink fennel tea, ginger tea, and chamomile tea.

7. Exercise

Exercising relieves cramps because it releases beta-endorphins also known as the body’s natural painkiller. Exercising allows blood to flow smoothly helping chemical compounds like prostaglandins burn faster which causes uterine contractions.

8. Painkiller

It is okay to take painkillers if your period is making your discomfort worse. Anti-inflammatory painkillers such as diclofenac, ibuprofen and naproxen can be used to relieve period pain. These painkillers won’t hurt your uterus or render you infertile. It’s only a myth that people believe. Focus on relaxing because, for many women, periods are a challenging time.

Takeaway

A majority of women experience period cramps, but the intensity of the pain may vary from one woman to another. Using these tips in your routine during the period cycle may help ease the pain. It is advised to consult a doctor if the pain hampers your daily activities due to its severity.