How else can I get rid of period pains?
Stop smoking – smoking tobacco can make your period pain worse. Studies into the link between smoking and period pain showed that current smokers were 41% more likely to have long-lasting period pain than non-smokers. Cutting down on the amount that you smoke, or stopping altogether, could make your period pain easier to deal with.
Deep breaths and de-stress – while there aren’t many studies on the relationship between stress and period pain symptoms, it’s thought that stress can be a trigger for painful periods. Meditation, yoga, and other relaxation techniques that reduce your stress levels can help take your mind off the pain, and may also improve your symptoms directly.
Do some light exercise – being active is likely the last thing you want to do when you have painful period cramps, but gentle-to-moderate exercises like jogging, cycling, or yoga can actually help to ease your symptoms and reduce period pain. When you exercise your body releases hormones called endorphins, which block pain signals - similar to how some painkillers work.
Relax with a massage – gentle stomach massages, using light and circular motions, can relax your muscles and reduce cramping.
Get out the hot water bottle – applying heat is a well-known remedy to soothe aching muscles, because it improves blood flow and makes your muscles less stiff. Putting a hot water bottle (wrapped in a towel!) onto your stomach, or taking a nice long soak in a warm bath, can help you relax and ease your cramps.
Changes to your diet – foods that are high in sugar, trans-fatty acids, or salt may make your menstrual cramps worse. Switching to healthier options that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D can reduce the risk of period pain. If you need help getting enough of these nutrients in your diet, you can also take supplements like fish oil tablets.
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