Menstrual cramps are also referred to as dysmenorrhea. Many women are affected by this condition several days prior to and during menstruation. Approximately 80 percent of all women experience menstrual cramps at some time. Over-the-counter medications may reduce the pain due to menstrual cramps; however, taking niacin may reduce cramp discomfort. Speak with a qualified physician prior to adding niacin to your dietary regimen.
Function
Menstruation is a natural monthly occurrence for women from a young age until menopause occurs. Menstruation generally occurs between the ages of 11 and 12 but can occur in girls as young as 8 and might not occur until the age of 15. During menstruation, According to the National Institutes of Health, your body prepares itself for pregnancy, and each cycle usually lasts approximately 28 days from the beginning of one cycle to the start of the next.
Identification
Niacin is another name for vitamin B3 and belongs to the B complex family. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, niacin is used to help your body metabolize fats and protein and in the proper functioning of your nervous system. Consuming healthy foods in your diet will provide the recommended amounts of niacin. However, in the case of niacin deficiency, you may experience symptoms of fatigue, depression and vomiting.
Causes
During menstruation, the uterus contracts to rid your body of the uterine lining. According to MayoClinic.com, hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins trigger the uterine muscles to contract to help this process. If there is an elevated level of prostaglandins, there is an increase in the severity of menstrual cramps, says MayoClinic.com. In addition, other factors may contribute to menstrual cramps such as pelvic inflammatory disease or PID, endometriosis and uterine fibroids.
Role
Niacin acts as a natural antispasmodic and vasodilator. Antispasmodic medications help reduce contractions and relax the uterine muscles. In addition, niacin also contributes to the dilation of the uterine arteries to increase blood flow. Adequate blood flow to the uterus also aids in relaxing the uterine muscles.
Uses
Using niacin as an alternative treatment for menstrual cramps may help relieve the pain. According to OBGYN.net, studies show that approximately 88 percent of women have effectively treated menstrual cramps using niacin. The recommended dosage to help uterine contractions is 100 mg twice a day for the month. In addition, while you are experiencing cramps, you may take 100 mg every two to three hours, states OBGYN.net.
