Do you dread your period each month, anticipating terrible pain and discomfort? You're not alone, as the majority of women suffer some form of period pain, whether it's stomach ache, cramps, bloating or general aches and pains. You don't need to put on a brave face and suffer, though, as there are many ways you can reduce period pain. These range from getting plenty of exercise, cutting out certain items of food and drink during your period and considering taking birth control.
Do some gentle exercise
Although going down to the gym might be the last thing you feel like doing, regular exercise is proven to lessen cramps and reduce period pain. It's also good for your overall health and a great routine to get into whether you're on your period or not.
Try some gentle exercise like stretching or yoga, and you might be surprised at how much better you feel. The cobra and box pose can both help reduce uterine contractions, and the deep breathing that's required during yoga will help you to feel calmer and more comfortable.
Avoid certain food and drink
Before you reach for a portion or fries or tub of ice cream, stop and think about how it will make you feel. Avoiding fatty and fried foods will reduce your risk of pain and discomfort, and you should also go easy on anything that contains large amounts of sugar and salt. Caffeinated beverages are also a no-no, so try replacing your morning coffee with a soothing cup of peppermint or chamomile tea — shown to reduce pain and inflammation. Your diet should include plenty of fruits, vegetable and whole grains, as well as foods rich in Omega 3.
Consider birth control
If you feel like you've tried everything and are still suffering from serious pain that impacts on your day-to-day activities, it could be time to consider birth control. Visit your local medical centre to ask a qualified doctor or nurse what you're options are. Some forms of birth control are commonly used because they make periods lighter and less painful, while other forms can reduce the number of times you have a period each year.
The different options come with their own risks and benefits, so it's important to make sure you're fully informed. It may take some trial and error to find the method of birth control that helps with your period pain the most, but it will be worth it.
Share24 February 2017
Hello there! Welcome to my blog. I would like to start by telling you a story about something that happened to me many years ago. I was working in Sydney at the time as an investment banker. The hours were long and I would party every weekend to de-stress. I put on a lot of weight and began to have problems sleeping. I didn't pay much attention to the problems, as I thought I was invincible. However, one day I collapsed at work. At the hospital the doctors saved my life. Since then, I have become very interested in health and medical matters.