Cramps, medically referred to as dysmenorrheal, are a common symptom of a woman's menstrual period. The pain and intensity of menstrual cramps vary from woman to woman. Some women may experience debilitating, severe cramping that effects daily activities. Although the pain usually resides in the abdomen, some women may feel cramping in the back as well. There are several types of vitamins that can help treat and prevent menstrual cramps.
Causes of menstrual cramps
According to the Mayo Clinic website, menstrual cramps occur when the uterus contracts to discharge its lining. This happens during a menstrual period when hormones trigger the contractions. Menstrual cramps can also be caused by other conditions. Fibroids, a disorder that causes tumors to grow on the uterine wall can result in menstrual cramps. Cramps can occur due to endometriosis, where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus.
Vitamins
The book "Prevention's Healing with Vitamins" says that diets high in B vitamins can relieve menstrual cramps. Vitamin B6 allows the uterine muscles to relax, helping cramps to become more manageable. A study in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology has revealed that vitamin B1, sometimes referred to as thiamine, is effective against menstrual cramps. Vitamin E, when taken during a woman's menstrual period, can also offer menstrual cramp relief.
Sources
A woman can take a multi-vitamin supplement or take each vitamin separately. There are also powder forms of vitamins that can be dissolved in water. Certain foods are full of the vitamins that can relieve menstrual cramps. The Kids Health website says that bananas, beans, poultry, eggs, spinach and potatoes are all good sources of vitamin B6. Foods like fortified pasta, cereal, dried beans and whole grains are full of vitamin B1. Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils, nuts, avocados and green leafy vegetables.
Prevention
Niacin, a form of vitamin B3, may be used before a period to prevent cramps. "Some research shows that niacin is about 90 percent effective for relieving cramps," says Dr. Susan Lark of the PMS and Menopause Self-Help Center in California. Vitamin B3 should be taken 7 to 10 days before the start of a menstrual period to ward off cramps. A woman should start with 25 mg. If this is not effective, dosage can be increased over the months.
Warnings
Although most menstrual cramp pain is normal, Dr. Susan Lark explains that some medical conditions can cause severe cramping that may need the attention of a doctor. Conditions like endometriosis and fibroids may require medical treatment. Overdosing on vitamins can have serious consequences. The LifeForce Hosptials website says symptoms of overdose can include numbness, walking difficulty, jaundice, and damage to the liver. If concerned, ask a doctor to suggest an appropriate vitamin dosage.
References
- MayoClinic: Menstrual cramps
- "Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus"; The Editors of Prevention Health Books.; 1998
- TeensHealth: Vitamins
