7 Things Women Recommended for Severe Period Cramps

Menstrual cramps are a common challenge that many women face during their monthly cycles. These discomforting sensations can range from mild to severe, impacting daily activities and overall well-being. In this blog post, we’ve gathered insights from women who have found effective ways to tackle severe period cramps. Let’s explore these seven highly recommended solutions that offer empowerment and relief.

Bring on the Heat

Applying heat through a hot water bottle or Pixie Heat Belts helps relax the uterine muscles, easing the constriction that causes severe period cramps. In 2018, a research review noted that heat increased blood flow, reducing pain.

When it comes to choosing a heat source, I would recommend the Eva Thermal! It is a cordless heating belt that is thin enough to wear under any clothing. On top of that, it comes with Chinese herbal packs that are designed to soothe muscles and reduce period cramps when in contact with heat.

Inhale the Relief

Making a simple adjustment to your breathing can have a profound impact on your health and severe menstrual pain, especially since physiotherapists estimate that 80% of people breathe incorrectly! Deep and rhythmic breathing can increase oxygen flow, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. This, in turn, can alleviate muscle tension and ease the intensity of severe period cramps.

The Wim Hof Method has become a popular technique for pain relief as the man held a world record for swimming under ice and running a half marathon barefoot on ice and snow. This technique has been a lifelong journey for him, learning to breathe correctly and using this power to overcome and reduce pain. For most women, our PMS symptoms may not be as ice-cold as swimming in the Arctic, but nonetheless, this man has taught others to reduce their pain with simple breathing exercises, and the results are astonishing! You can check out his app, which will walk you through these simple but key breathing techniques!

Bend like a Pretzel

My favorite yoga poses for menstrual cramp relief are the Child Pose and Pigeon Pose, which help stretch and release tension in the pelvic region. These postures promote flexibility and stimulate blood flow to the pelvic area, reducing cramping. If you are looking for more poses to help with period pain, check out this blog post on yoga poses for menstrual cramps!

Breaking Up with Caffeine

Bidding farewell to caffeine, given its interference with optimal hormone balance, prompts the exploration of alternatives to coffee and caffeinated teas for a healthier hormonal equilibrium. Caffeine, particularly in our beloved coffee, boasts a higher percentage than many other drinks and isn’t the best for our bodies overall. While I usually steer clear of caffeine, reserving a cup of coffee as a weekend indulgence, I’ve uncovered alternative methods to satiate my caffeine cravings. Options like matcha, London fog, Chai tea, and herbal teas have become my go-to choices. My current favorite is Henry and Sons Decaf Vanilla Como, offering the perfect blend for a delightful London fog! Embracing these alternatives may not eliminate caffeine entirely, but it significantly reduces my overall intake.

One Step at a Time

While it might be the last thing you want to consider during your period, participating in moderate exercise, like walking or running, can release endorphins—the body’s natural painkillers, capable of enhancing mood and diminishing the perception of pain. Personally, I’ve discovered that running has significantly contributed to a more consistent menstrual cycle. Previously, my periods were unpredictable, and I never knew when they would start. However, with the incorporation of a regular exercise routine, my overall well-being has improved, and my menstrual cycle has also become more predictable and consistent.

Taking Supplements

When considering supplements, it’s crucial to exercise caution and conduct thorough research, as any changes to your diet can have significant positive or negative effects. Personally, I lean towards Omega-3, Magnesium, and Vitamin D for managing my period cramps, and I’ll delve into why these are my top choices.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil and specific seeds, Omega-3s boast anti-inflammatory properties, effectively alleviating menstrual cramps often associated with inflammation.

Magnesium: Renowned for its muscle-relaxing properties, magnesium diminishes cramp intensity by easing muscle contractions. I typically opt for a powdered form, such as Calm. Magnesium is also known to aid in sleep. If you find yourself craving dark chocolate before bedtime, your body might signal a need for magnesium, as dark chocolate is rich in this essential mineral.

Vitamin D: Adequate Vitamin D levels have shown a correlation with reduced menstrual pain. Playing a role in the body’s inflammatory response, it contributes to overall well-being during the menstrual cycle.

A Less Sweet Lifestyle

Processed white sugar poses a significant threat to your health, and the transformative effects of eliminating it from your diet cannot be overstated. I successfully navigated a year without this substance—an admittedly challenging journey, but the rewards were nothing short of remarkable. During this period, I enjoyed improved sleep, consistent menstrual cycles, and a complete absence of period pain! I’m not exaggerating; no cramps, and no back pain, especially after the initial three months of cutting out processed sugar.

If you are seeking expert guidance on diet and hormone balance to avoid experiencing period cramps, I highly recommend checking out @dietitianbrittany. Unlike my shocking, unconventional approach of no sugar for a year, she offers a balanced perspective and can guide you with a sensible approach to your diet.

My mom used to say, ‘White sugar, white flour, white death!’ It may sound dramatic for an eight-year-old, but the message stuck with me, and there’s some truth to it. Beyond its nutritional deficiencies, sugar has a negative impact on hormone health. Many women advocate for eliminating sugar from their diets to alleviate hormonal symptoms and enhance overall health. Embracing a sugar-free lifestyle can bring far-reaching benefits to your well-being.

I hope by incorporating these highly recommended solutions into your routine. You can navigate severe menstrual cramps with resilience and find what works best for you. Remember, every woman’s body is unique, so it’s essential to listen to your own needs and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice. Here’s to a more comfortable and empowered menstrual experience!