Period cramps. We all get them sometimes. Knowing what they are and how to ease them is key to navigating your period with success!
What are period cramps?Period cramps are part and parcel of getting you period. Period cramps happen as a result of your uterus contracting in order to push out its unneeded lining (the endometrium in technical terms) once a month - when your egg isn’t fertilised. This tissue and blood leave your body through your vagina as a reddish fluid – aka your period. So, even though period cramps are unpleasant, they’re quite natural. But that doesn’t mean you need to suffer. There are a bunch of period cramp remedies you can try.
There are plenty of ways to ease your period cramps. Follow these simple tips for some period cramp relief:
- Rest
Getting some rest is a good way of achieving whole body relaxation, causing your muscles to expand and relax, instead of scrunching up and causing cramps.
- Get warm
Applying heat to your period crampy body is an effective way of relaxing your muscles and easing period cramps. Try a warm bath, a hot water bottle on your abdomen, or even just cuddling up under the duvet in your favourite sweats.
- Get some exercise
Exercising releases chemicals in your body called endorphins. They literally change how you perceive pain. How cool is that? It’s like nature’s very own pain killer. Don’t worry. You don’t have to overdo it. Some light stretching or a brisk walk around the block should do the trick. Think swimming would be more your thing? Use a tampon like TAMPAX Compak Pearl and never be held back from any physical activity you want to do while you have your period.
- Drink water
Many girls feel bloated during their period. Staying hydrated reduces water retention and bloating, which can make period cramps feel worse. Carry around a water bottle for some easy period cramp relief throughout the day.
- Eat chocolate
It may sound silly, but there are actually chemicals in chocolate that boost your mood, relax your body, and ease your period cramps. It’s part of why you might crave chocolate during your period. It’s a natural period cramp remedy. So, go ahead and indulge in some chocolate. Just be sure not to go overboard.
- Take a pill
If all else fails, you may want to take an over-the-counter pain killer. Be sure to always ask your parents or a trusted adult before taking any medication.
Essentially, the best thing for period cramp relief is anything that relaxes your muscles, counteracting the contractions that cause cramps. Don’t be afraid to try new things to ease your period cramps. Over time, you’ll find your very own mix of menstrual cramp relief that works for you.
