What to do to relieve menstrual pain?

This is an automatically translated article.

The article was professionally consulted with Specialist Doctor II Tran Thi Mai Huong - Obstetrician and Gynecologist - Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital.
Abdominal pain every month when menstruation comes is the fear of many women. not only abdominal pain but also accompanied by many other "pains" such as back pain, thigh pain, body fatigue,... So what to do to help with menstrual pain? The article will suggest to help women simple ways so that every "month" is no longer a fear.

1. Why do menstrual cramps happen?

During menstruation, the muscles of the uterus contract and relax to help remove the lining buildup that causes the most common symptom of a dull ache in the lower abdomen. Cramps sometimes happen, that's because your muscles are working.
Others may also experience nausea, vomiting, headaches, or diarrhea or constipation.
Several other factors can make period pain worse:
Heavy bleeding Under the age of 20 or just having a period, irregular periods The body overproduces or is sensitive to prostaglandins, a hormone that affects to the uterus Endometriosis (abnormal growth of uterine tissue) Use birth control.

2. What to do to relieve menstrual pain?

Applying a warm compress to the abdomen Applying heat to the abdomen and lower back can reduce the dull pain of the month.
You can use a warm water bottle, heating pad, or use a hot towel to apply. Bathing with warm water is also a great way to relax the body and relieve pain.
Massage Massage 5 minutes a day can promote blood flow and relieve stress to help you feel better. Start a few days before you are due to get your period.
Women who started applying a cream with a blend of lavender, sage, and marjoram oils to their abdomens after their period experienced less cramping during their next period. These essential oils have pain-relieving compounds.
Avoid certain foods During menstruation, women should avoid foods that cause bloating and water retention. Some of the biggest culprits to stay away from include:
Fatty, greasy foods, fast foods like chips,... Alcohol, stimulants like alcohol, beer Carbonated drinks Caffeine Food Salty foods, high-acid fruits Food supplements Foods rich in protein, vitamins, fiber
A diet aimed at reducing menstrual pain should have a lot of fresh foods, vegetables rich in minerals, vitamins and fiber. Should add the following foods:
Papaya is rich in vitamins Brown rice contains vitamin B-6, which can reduce bloating. Walnuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds are rich in manganese, which helps ease cramps. Olive oil, broccoli are rich in vitamin E. Chicken, fish and green leafy vegetables will help provide iron for the body when there is a lot of blood loss during menstruation. Boron: This mineral helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus. Researchers have demonstrated that boron reduces the intensity and length of menstrual pain. Foods high in boron include avocados, bananas, beans, and bean products. You can also take boron supplements if your diet isn't getting enough. However, you should consult your doctor before taking boron supplements. The mineral boron is also very beneficial for the brain and bones. Reducing or cutting out these foods as the month arrives can help ease cramps and reduce stress. Instead, have a cup of warm ginger tea or soothing mint tea (caffeine-free) or hot water with lemon.

Eat chocolate
Sipping a little chocolate will help reduce menstrual pain and feel more comfortable.
Need to drink enough water
Drinking water helps the body not retain water and avoid bloating during menstruation. Warm or hot water is usually better for cramps, as hot liquids increase blood flow to the skin and can relax muscles that are cramping.
Watery foods to eat to boost hydration, include: Cucumber, watermelon, berries (including strawberries, blueberries and raspberries).
Yoga Practice Yoga has the effect of releasing endorphins and helping to prevent or reduce menstrual symptoms.
Start with a few deep breaths while lying on your back with knees bent. Try yoga poses like bridge and stick pose, they will help relax the body.
Exercise Many women believe that when exercising will help them sweat, thereby helping to relax the body. Research shows that exercise is effective in reducing menstrual pain to a degree that can eliminate or reduce the need for pain medication.
Exercise releases brain chemicals called endorphins that help you feel good. So, if possible, do light exercise with activities like walking instead of strenuous activities.
Use over-the-counter medications Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the main over-the-counter pain relievers that can be used for cases of menstrual pain and heavy bleeding. The class of steroid anti-inflammatory drugs includes ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve). These medications help reduce the production of prostaglandins in the body, which in turn can help with menstrual cramps.

See a doctor For most women, menstrual cramps are normal, but sometimes they're a sign of a more serious condition. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the occurrence of cramps to control and evaluate when there are abnormalities. Take the initiative to see a doctor if:
Constant pain that prevents you from doing daily activities Abdominal pain that gets worse, or bleeding that gets worse, over time Pain medicine is used but doesn't get better For these In severe cases, the best way to treat it is to see a doctor to diagnose the cause of your menstrual pain. Some form of birth control your doctor prescribes will help keep hormone levels under control to reduce pain.
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Reference sources: healthline.com, webmd.com