What Exactly Are Menstrual Cramps?
Menstrual cramps are throbbing, agonising cramps in your lower abdomen that occur just before and during your period. They are among the most common and irritating aspects of your period, and they can occur just before or throughout that period of the month. Many ladies get them regularly.
Cramps can range in severity from moderate to severe. They normally occur for the first time a year or two following a girl’s first menstruation. They normally get less painful with age and may stop completely once you have your first child.
Symptoms of Period Cramps
You could have:
- Throbbing pain in your stomach (sometimes severe)
- You get a feeling of pressure in your stomach.
- Hip, lower back, and inner thighs pain
When cramps are strong, the following symptoms may occur:
- Stomach ache
- Vomiting and/or loose stools
Causes and Risk Factors for Menstrual Cramps
Muscle spasms cause menstrual cramps in the uterus, also known as the womb, and it can press on adjacent blood vessels if it contracts too aggressively during your menstrual period. This temporarily deprives the uterus of oxygen, and a lack of oxygen causes your pain and cramping.
Other factors include:
- Endometriosis is when the uterine lining (the endometrium) develops outside the uterus.
- Fibroids in the uterus
- Adenomyosis is a condition in which your uterine lining develops into neighbouring muscle.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a bacterial infection that begins in the uterus and can extend to other reproductive organs.
- Cervical stenosis refers to a constriction of the bottom.
Treatment for Period Cramps
Take aspirin or another pain medicine, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen, if you have mild period cramps. Take these drugs as soon as the bleeding or cramping begins for the best results.
Heat can also be beneficial. Apply a heating pad or a hot water bottle to your lower back or stomach. A warm bath may also be beneficial.
Other lifestyle adjustments that may be beneficial include:
- Take a break when you need one.
- It will help if you avoid caffeine and salty meals.
- It would be best if you avoid tobacco and alcohol.
- Massaging your lower back and abdomen will help you relax.
- Consume dietary supplements.
- Try to keep your tension under control.
- Acupuncture or acupressure are two options.
- Inquire with your doctor about herbal remedies.
- Make exercising a part of your weekly routine to help prevent cramping.
If, however, these remedies don’t seem to be working for you or you feel there is some other cause behind your cramps, consult an online lady doctor.