Most women experience menstrual cramps at some time in their life. For some, the pain may be occasional and nothing more than a minor nuisance, while others may experience what they consider to be debilitating pain on a regular basis. If you have ever suffered from menstrual cramps, you have probably tried different tactics to help lessen the pain. Read on for some different activities that may help you achieve some relief from your menstrual cramps.
Medications
A number of different over-the-counter medicines may offer relief for your menstrual cramps. Make sure to talk to a doctor before beginning any type of medication regimen, just to be on the safe side. You may choose to take Midol, which is advertised not only to provide relief of cramping but also bloating and in some cases irritability. Additionally, ibuprofen and naproxen, which can be both found generically or in brands such as Aleve and Motrin, may help reduce the severity of your menstrual cramps. If you know for certain that your period is about to start, it is a good idea to take any of these medications ahead of time. Otherwise, take the prescribed amount on the bottle at your first experience of cramping. If over-the-counter medicines have no impact on your cramping, talk to your gynecologist, who in some cases may prescribe you a prescription painkiller.
Exercise
Exercise can help relieve the severity of your menstrual cramps because it helps to relax your body and your muscles. Exercising can also help your mind be distracted from the cramping pain you may be experiencing.
Heating Pads
Laying a heating pad across your abdomen may give you some relief from your cramping. Make sure that you have a barrier such as a heating pad cover, or your own T-shirt, between your skin and the pad so that you do not burn yourself. Start the heating pad on the lowest temperature possible and then increase as needed. Be careful to follow the instructions on the heating pad so that you know how long it can safely be applied to your skin, and never sleep with the heating pad on you.
Distracting Activities
While keeping busy will not cure your menstrual cramps, focusing on them is certain to make them seem more intense and longer. If you are cramping and you have tried taking medicine, exercising and using a heating pad, choose an activity that will keep your mind occupied. Watch a favorite movie, take a walk or get together with some girlfriends to keep your mind off of the pain.
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