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Painful Cramps

Painful Cramps

Menstrual cramps are common during the initial stage of the monthly period. Sometimes cramps can be painful and in some women, extremely so.

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About Painful Cramps

Menstrual cramps are categorized as being either primary or secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea (the most common) occurs most often in young girls who have just begun their menstrual cycles. It often becomes less severe when a woman reaches her mid-twenties or after she has given birth. Secondary dysmenorrhea is when menstrual cramps are caused by other conditions such as endometriosis, fibroid tumors, pelvic adhesions, and ovarian cysts or by the use of an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control.

Menstrual cramps are often related to prostaglandin which is a naturally occurring hormone like substance that causes the uterus to contract. However, if a woman does not ovulate, it is unlikely that she will encounter cramps during her menstrual period. Physicians often prescribe oral contraceptives to help ease the painful periods. But, you should be aware that birth control pills can cause abnormal bleeding in some women.

Over the counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, used around the clock as soon as you notice the first sign of your period can usually help to reduce the severity of cramps in many women by inhibiting the release of those prostaglandins. Acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) will help to ease the pain, but it does not affect prostaglandins.

Some studies have shown that regular physical activity can often help to reduce cramping in some women. Natural progesterone may also help reduce the symptoms that are causing the menstrual cramps.

Supplementing your diet with zinc and calcium has been found to reduce cramps, bloating, and related PMS symptoms.

Herbal remedies, such as Viburnum prunifolium, Scutellaria spp. and Cimicifuga racemosa, have an antispasmodic effect that may help to reduce some menstrual cramps. Other useful herbs include cramp bark, squaw vine, unicorn root, bromelain, evening primrose oil, and black cohosh.

Try taking a warm bath and using aromatherapy or a heating pad on your lower abdomen or on your back. Relaxing and letting those around you know that you are not feeling yourself will help by reducing the stress of your everyday life that may be contributing to your menstrual cramps.

If you find that your painful cramps are not relieved by any of the methods listed above, make an appointment to see your health care provider.

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Painful Cramps