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Menstrual cramps don't have to be such a pain! Check out how you can ease this rough time by staying healthy and keeping moving. We explain what period pains are and share some tips on how to relieve period pain.

Menstrual cramps are a total pain. They can double you over and ruin your day. But not if you know a few smart (and comfy) moves and how to relieve period pain.

What are period pains?

Menstrual pains are you feeling your uterus (womb) contract to shed its lining. Pretty amazing, even if it doesn't feel so great.

How to relieve period pain

  1. Exercise and stretch. It loosens up your muscles and helps to provide period pain relief.

  2. Rub your lower tummy. That helps to relax the muscles and provides period pain relief.

  3. Medicate. Try an over-the-counter pain reliever to relieve period pain. These medicines can help to relieve period pain. If you’re a teen, make sure to get the parental stamp of approval first.

  4. Fortify. Vitamin B1 or magnesium supplements may reduce period pain, bloating and other PMS symptoms. (You know the parental approval deal).

  5. Heat things up. Take a warm bath or find a heating pad for your lower belly or back. A little heat goes a long way to reducing the effects of your menstrual pains.

Still In Pain?

If you’ve tried all these ideas, have taken pain relief and you still feel a lot of period pain, it may be time to talk to someone about what are period pains and what are more serious issues, and how to treat them. Book an appointment with your doctor. Make sure to take any menstrual cycle charts and food diaries you’ve recorded, and tell them about any medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins or mineral supplements you’re taking.

Source:

  • American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists brochure 46 Dysmenorrhea.