Muscular pain: Painful menstruation is a reality that thousands of women live with every day. Menstrual cramps or menstrual cramps can literally make a woman immobile and non-functional. As Dr. Suman Lal, Associate Director, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Max Hospital, Gurgaon, says, “Dysmenorrhea, another name for painful periods, affects a lot of women. Menstrual cramps, which are the pain in your lower abdomen. Throbbing, cramping causes pain, they are the most common cause of pain. Other signs and symptoms such as headache, nausea, diarrhea and lower back discomfort may also be present. Premenstrual syndrome and period discomfort are different conditions (PMS) are.”
causes of menstrual cramps
Menstrual cramps can be primary or secondary. “Pain caused by primary dysmenorrhea is the most common type. Menstrual pain that is not caused by another disease. The main culprit is usually an excess of prostaglandins, which your uterus produces. These substances cause your uterine muscles to contract and cause pain. causes relaxation, resulting in cramps,” says Dr. Suman Lal.
Sometimes women develop period cramps later in life, which is called secondary dysmenorrhea. Disorders such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids that affect your uterus or other reproductive organs can cause this. Over time, this form of pain often gets worse, Dr. Lal says.
Medication for Period Cramps: To Take or Not to Take
While some decision-making souls giggle at this right away, studies have shown that, in some women, extreme period pain equates to a heart attack. Medications provide relief and, at times, allow women to carry out their daily duties – at home or at work – more comfortably. But like any medicine, it is important to seek expert advice. Dr. Lal says, “Although the severity of menstrual cramps varies from woman to woman, taking over the counter painkillers can be dangerous. Studies show that some women experience extreme pain during their periods. , which is compared to a heart attack. As a result, they are forced to take medications for immediate pain relief. Negative consequences of painkillers include constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. ”
Relieving Menstrual Cramps: Foods to Avoid
Dr. Lal says that in addition to using heat and consuming mint tea, you can also reduce cramps by avoiding certain foods like fried foods, milk and other dairy products, fatty foods, and caffeine, because They can increase cramps.
how to get rid of menstrual cramps
Here are ways to reduce menstrual cramps as suggested by Dr. Suman Lal:
Heat Application: The heat can relax the muscles responsible for cramps. Therefore menstrual cramps can be significantly reduced by using a heating pad on the back or abdomen or by taking a hot bath.
work out: Yes, you heard that right. While we all wish to curl up in bed during periods, exercise can work wonders. Exercise stimulates the body’s natural production of endorphins, which work to reduce the perception of pain.
stress reduction: Stress affects our bodies in different ways, one of which is a decrease in pain threshold. Practice deep breathing techniques, meditation, counseling and yoga to reduce stress levels.