Menstrual cramps affect approximately 30 to 50 percent of all women, according to Susan Lark, M.D., and director of the PMS and Menopause Self-Help Center in Los Altos, Calif. For 10 percent of these women, monthly menstrual cramps can be so severe that daily activities become difficult or impossible to complete. Even though these cramps seem almost guaranteed to arrive each month, there are some safe and natural treatments that can be used to relieve the discomfort associated with a woman's period.
Exercise
Exercise during a woman's menses can improve blood flow to the pelvic area as well as loosen and relax muscles that may be tense due to cramping. An activity as simple as walking can be beneficial in pain relief. An added benefit is that exercising releases endorphins that affect the brain and make you feel good during and after exercise.
Stretch
Stretching the muscles associated with the pelvic region and the lower back can increase blood flow and ease discomfort associated with menstrual cramps. Yoga is a particularly good form of stretching, because it allows deep stretches and incorporates relaxation into the movement.
Heat
The application of heat to the lower abdominal area provides excellent pain relief for many people. Heating pads and hot water bottles are excellent for use at home, curled up on the couch or lying in bed. For heat relief on the go, disposable self-heating pads are available in many drugstores that can simply be placed on the inside of the panties or pants to provide direct relief to the proper area. These are excellent for women while at work, school or while running errands.
Teas, Other Liquids
Drinking hot tea made of mint, chamomile or ginger helps alleviate menstrual cramps. These teas are naturally calming and can also help eliminate extra fluid retained during a woman's period. Maintaining hydration is also essential in the health of a woman's overall health and will help the body to function in optimal status. Dehydration can make menstrual cramps more painful; drinking at least eight glasses of liquids a day is needed.
Bath
Soak in a tub of warm water (as warm as you desire). Add 1 cup sea salt and 1 cup baking soda. This mixture will help you to relax and soothe your muscles, allowing them to relax as well. Blood flow will increase when muscles are not tense and decrease pain and cramps.
