Cramping is a regular part of the menstrual cycle for many women throughout their reproductive years. Pain from menstrual cramps is the most common cause of lost work and school time for females in their teens and 20s, according Medline Plus. Cramps have physical causes, but outside factors such as caffeine can worsen the discomfort.
Definition
Menstrual cramps are contractions of the uterus before and during your period. These contractions help the uterus shed its lining each month so the menstrual cycle can restart once your bleeding is over. Hormones called prostaglandins trigger the contractions and the resulting discomfort, the Mayo Clinic advises. Cramps can be mild or severe enough to be temporarily disabling.
Caffeine Effects
Coffee, tea, certain soft drinks and chocolate all contain caffeine, but this substance can aggravate menstrual cramps because of its physical effects. Caffeine constricts your blood vessels and raises tension levels, according to the Women's Health Information website, which makes cramping worse. Ignore chocolate cravings during your period and temporarily switch to decaffeinated coffee and herbal teas that are naturally caffeine free to avoid any unpleasant effects.
Considerations
Some over-the-counter medications for premenstrual syndrome and multisymptom menstrual relief, including cramps, contain caffeine as an active ingredient. The amount is no more than one cup of coffee, according to Bayer Health Care, and its purpose is to relieve fatigue and reduce bloating -- caffeine is a stimulant and diuretic. Do not eat or drink caffeinated foods and beverages while taking medications containing caffeine. Switch to a caffeine-free pain reliever if you are especially sensitive to the drug's negative effects.
Dietary Restrictions
Caffeine is not the only dietary item to avoid during your period if you want to avoid cramps. Medline Plus recommends cutting back on salt, sugar and alcohol and eating fruits, vegetables, grains and other complex carbohydrates. Eat lightly throughout the day rather than having three large meals. Warm beverages help relieve cramps, but opt for drinks without any caffeine. Calcium, vitamin B6 and magnesium supplements are helpful for cramps during the premenstrual period.
Warning
Menstrual cramps usually have natural causes, but they are sometimes a symptom of a more serious medical problem. This excessive pain is called dysmenorrhea, and possible causes include ovarian cysts, fibroids, endometriosis, sexually transmitted diseases and pelvic inflammatory disease, according to Medline Plus. See your doctor if you use over-the-counter pain relievers and cut out the recommended dietary items, including caffeine, and your cramps are still severe enough to interfere with daily activities.
