Menstrual cramps are undeniably painful. Studies show that 8 out of 10 women go through severe pain from the first day to the third day of their menstrual cycles. A woman’s body, mainly the tissues of the uterus, produces a chemical called prostaglandins. This chemical stimulates the muscles of the uterus to contract. When the levels of prostaglandins are high, the person may experience intense contractions of the uterus which results in pain. Other reasons for menstrual pain can be as follows:

• The tissue of the uterus appears outside the uterus – a condition called endometriosis
• Benign growth in the uterus referred to as fibroids
• Infections in and around the reproductive organ
• Abnormal pregnancy – such as outside the uterus
• Narrow cervix
• Ovarian cyst

To understand menstrual cramps better, they are commonly divided into the premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric order. The former is a symptom (or a group of symptoms) that occurs between ovulation and the period. This is when most women experience mood swings and food cravings. While there is also a pain in the lower abdomen in this stage, PMS can be effectively controlled with a good rest. However, premenstrual dysphoric order is a condition where the PMS is extended and the symptoms include sadness, irritability, and severe mood swings.

When should you seek medical help?
Home care is considered the best when it comes to dealing with menstrual pain. Rest and placing a hot pack on the abdomen and lower back can bring a lot of relief. However, consulting a healthcare provider is essential if the following is experienced:

• The cramps continue for longer than usual
• The pain worsens and is something that you have never experienced before
• Excessive bleeding where you need more than one pad (or tampon) in an hour
• If you witness any sign of infection like fever or chills
• If you’re pregnant and yet experience any of these symptoms above.

Hospitalization is a must if you:

• Faint and feel dizzy when standing up or making quick movements
• Have intense pain in the pelvic region
• Pass tissues during the menstrual flow. The tissues appear silvery in color.
• Are pregnant and have excruciating menstrual kind of pain.

Medications and home remedies for menstrual pain
In the case of an emergency, hospitalization is a must and expert supervision is needed for recovery. However, to handle the normal menstrual pain or cramps, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be taken. These are known to block the effects of prostaglandins and must be taken after consulting your doctor.

Massaging the lower back and the abdomen area with aromatic oil will help in handling the pain. A lot of women swear by a good vegetarian diet to overcome problems related to menstrual cramps.

How to prevent menstrual pain?

• Exercise regularly and try to keep the body weight as normal as possible (BMI index should always be your benchmark)
• Quit smoking
• Do not drink too much alcohol
• Cultivate a hobby that will keep you mentally and physically engaged
• Sleep well – your body needs a minimum of 6 hours of sleep
• Stay hydrated
• During your menstrual cycle, refrain from doing a lot of work. Rest is the key to keep cramps at bay.