Menstrual cramps result from muscle contractions in the uterus and are common in women of childbearing age. According to the Center for Young Women's Health, exercising during the menstrual period may help relieve cramps for some women. Exploring different remedies for menstrual cramps can help you find the most effective treatment for you.
Significance
Most women have experienced the pain of menstrual cramps at some point in their lives. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that more than half of all menstruating women suffer some degree of pain for one to two days each month. While not dangerous to your health, the discomfort caused by menstrual cramps can lead to lost productivity and reduced quality of life when severe.
Over-the-Counter Medicines
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, or NSAIDs for short, are an excellent remedy for menstrual cramps. They include ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen. According to Mayo Clinic, taking these drugs a few days before your period begins can help prevent cramping. Because they take a while to begin working, NSAIDs are most effective when taken in advance or at the first sign of pain. Acetaminophen---an over-the-counter pain reliever from a different drug class---can be combined with NSAIDs for additional pain relief. In some cases, doctors may prescribe stronger medications when pain is severe.
Heat Therapy
Heat therapy is a cheap, drug-free option for treating menstrual pain. Mayo Clinic states that heat can be just as effective as over-the-counter painkillers for relieving menstrual cramps. Applying a heating pad to the affected area or soaking in a hot bath before running can help ease muscle tension associated with cramping. Disposable thermal heat pads can be worn under clothes and provide lasting relief during activities like running.
Safety Precautions
Before using over-the-counter pain medications, read dosing directions carefully to avoid developing adverse effects and interactions. NSAIDs, like ibuprofen or aspirin, may increase the risk of bleeding, so ask a doctor before using them if you suffer from a bleeding disorder. To prevent burns, avoid prolonged contact with heating devices, particularly if you suffer from diabetes or another condition that causes nerve damage.
Considerations
When it comes to menstrual cramps, no single treatment works for every woman. While gentle exercise can be helpful in some instances, strenuous workouts like running may aggravate pain. Talk to your doctor if your cramps are severe, persistent or accompanied by heavy bleeding. These may be signs of a more serious condition like endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
