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Periods can be a hassle. About 50 percent of women deal with period pain — a medical condition called dysmenorrhea. Experts believe this pain is caused by a chemical called prostaglandin, which triggers contractions in the body to shed the uterine lining. If you deal with dysmenorrhea, do you know how to get rid of period cramps fast?
Short of looking for a new birth control routine, there aren’t many ways to stop the process of dysmenorrhea developing. However, there is plenty you can do to learn how to get rid of period cramps fast!
The best foods you can eat during your period are those high in fiber and low in fat. According to one study, women who eat plenty of fiber experience less pain during their menstrual cycle. It’s believed there is a connection between fiber intake and a decrease in estrogen levels, which is the culprit behind period pains.
On the flipside, fatty foods increase estrogen levels and can exacerbate pain. One study found women who eat a high-fat diet experience more discomfort compared to their counterparts. Avoid foods high in fat like eggs, cheese and fish. Instead, opt for whole grains like brown rice, popcorn and whole-wheat pasta — and don’t forget to eat plenty of fruits and veggies.
A massage can be the perfect way to relax and unwind, but did you know it can also get rid of period pains? Techniques that focus on the lower abdominal muscles and the lower back can offer relief, especially for those with a retroverted uterus. You can also stimulate pressure points, specific spots located on the body.
Activating pressure points, such as the webbing between the thumb and forefinger or beneath the cartilage around the ear, can alleviate the worst of your period symptoms, including cramping. Women can ask a trusted partner to massage these points or even do it themselves.
It can be challenging to deal with your period when sitting in class or trying to make it through a meeting. If you want to know how to get rid of period cramps fast, a simple solution is to sip some healing tea. Herbal teas are used around the globe to treat a variety of ailments, including cramps. Some of the best brews to drink during your menstrual cycle will reduce symptoms and help you feel more energized.
Ginger tea is a popular choice known for its anti-inflammatory properties. One study showed women who consumed ginger during their periods experienced less severe pain over a shorter duration. It also helped regulate heavy bleeding. Green tea is another option, as it’s a natural diuretic that can relieve bloating and cramps. Experts say green tea may be able to treat uterine fibroids, which can cause lower abdominal pain.
It’s a myth that your period will stop once in the water, but when submerged, the pressure keeps blood and tissue from seeping out. Your weight is also reduced by up to 90 percent, reducing the stress on your cervix and alleviating cramps. Many women say swimming is a great way to regulate periods and ease painful symptoms.
When your period hits during the summer months, try to go outside for a swim. The increased exposure to sunlight will boost your body’s production of vitamin D, which can help lessen mood and hormone shifts. Most women use a tampon or menstrual cup when in the water, as a pad can feel bulky and uncomfortable. Be sure to change your tampon or cup immediately after swimming to prevent infection.
A carefully placed heating pad can often have instant soothing effects. Doctors believe it may relax the myometrium, the smooth muscle coat of the uterus, improving blood flow. One study showed women with pain during their menstrual cycles felt symptoms lessen in as little as one hour. The more time spent using heat, the greater the relief.
Many women ease period pains with a heating pad, but experts still aren’t sure if the technique improves blood flow. If you’re experiencing discomfort or bloating during your menstrual cycle, get in a comfortable position and use a heating pad set between 104 and 107 F. After one hour, assess the severity of your symptoms.
Getting your period can be a hassle. That time of the month is often associated with annoying or painful symptoms like cramps, bloating, mood swings, headaches and more. If you’re looking for a solution, learn how to get rid of period cramps fast.
Plan your diet to ensure you’re eating enough fiber. Drink a cup of hot green tea to reduce bloating and ease pain, or reduce the stress on your cervix by taking a dip in the pool. If you’re feeling lonely, remember, all girls have gone through the struggle.
