Premenstrual Cramps: Ways To Help Ease The Pain

Are you one of the millions who experiences premenstrual cramps? Here are some ways to help ease the pain.

One of the most common premenstrual syndromes is cramping. Cramping can range from mild to moderate to severe, depending on the woman. Mild cramping is often felt as an occasional twinge in the pelvic area or an overall heaviness in the stomach region, whereas more severe cramping can often interfere with a woman's day-to-day activities. If you are one of the millions of women who experience the common symptom of cramping before or during your menstrual cycle, here are a few ways you may be able to alleviate the pain. However, if your cramping becomes so severe that you literally can get nothing done, consult your doctor immediately to discuss other potential sources for the cramping.

* Growing up, most mothers would recommend sleep to their children for any ailment, whether it was the flu or a sprain. In this case, getting a good night's rest or adding a nap to your normal daily routine before and during your menstrual cycle can actually help alleviate some of the cramping that may occur. Sleeping puts the body in a state of relaxation which may be just what your body needs.

* For some women, the last thing they want to do when they experience PMS symptoms or when they are in the middle of their cycle, is get out of bed and exercise. However, exercise keeps the blood flowing in your pelvic area, which can ease the cramping. This does not mean you need to go run five miles to help with the cramping; simply taking a brisk walk around your neighborhood will do your body good.

* When you start to experience menstrual cramps, simply lie down in bed and put a warm heating pad on your abdomen. If you do not own a heating pad, try one of these two homemade methods. Boil some water and soak paper towels or a dish cloth in the water. Carefully place this in a sealed bag and wrap with another cloth. You can also fill a sock with rice and heat it in the microwave until it is warm. Some doctors recommend taking a warm bath to alleviate the cramps. Also, if your cramps have traveled to your back area, you can place a heating pad on this area, as well.

* Many sufferers of cramps suggest massaging your abdomen. Again, if the cramps have made it to your back area, have a friend or family member massage your back to alleviate the pain.

* There are some who feel that certain types of yoga positions can help with cramping. Talk to your yoga instructor or physician to see if there are any movements you can do at home when cramps occur.

* Of course, if worse comes to worse, medicate yourself. If your cramps are severe and debilitating, your physician may actually prescribe you a pain medication. However, if your cramps are mild to moderate, you can simply take an over-the-counter medication like aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (like Advil). Be sure to take only the recommended dosage, however.

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