Being a woman is a blessing in more than one way. You experience the joy of motherhood and even get to dress better than your male counterparts. Beyond the bliss, period cramps and hormonal disruptions can make life challenging for several days every month. Most women tend to feel physically exhausted and emotionally fatigued because the hormones go haywire well before the period begins.
You may even feel sleep deprived due to discomfort and pain. Popping a pill sounds like an easy solution, but becoming habitual is the last thing you want to do. Thankfully, there are better ways to deal with your menstrual woes without worrying about the side effects of medicines. Let us share a few practical ones women recommend from their personal experience.
Understand the underlying cause
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is the most common cause of cramps, fatigue, and irritability during the period. These symptoms surface due to a drop in the levels of estrogen and progesterone. But an underlying condition may cause unusual symptoms such as unbearable pain and heavy bleeding. The possibilities include uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease. If your woes are extreme or seem to worsen with time, seeing a gynecologist is the best thing to do. You must get a diagnosis and resolve the underlying condition to deal with the problem. Quick fixes will definitely not work, so you must get a proper solution.
Try a heat patch
A heat patch can deliver immense relief from cramps by relaxing the muscles of your uterus. Further, heat boosts blood circulation in your abdomen and reduces pain effectively. Studies indicate that the solution is as effective as painkillers. You only need to apply a heat patch on your abdominal area to get lasting relief. The best part is that these patches are discreet and easy to use, so you can wear them to work or college without getting attention. You can buy one online or from a pharmacy. Hot water bottles and heating pads are other alternatives you can use for heat therapy at home.
Massage with essential oils
Another simple yet surefire way to handle menstrual woes is to massage your abdominal area with essential oils. The best ones for reducing period cramps are sage, lavender, cinnamon, rose, and clove. Mix the essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil. The purpose of the carrier oil is to dilute the essential oil so that it spreads better on the skin. Moreover, it also reduces the chances of skin allergies by lowering the potency of the essential oil. Massaging gently for a few minutes can do magic for your pain and relieve it naturally.
Indulge in cannabis therapy
Cannabis is a tried and tested therapeutic aid for menstrual cramps, anxiety, and insomnia. You can trust it as a holistic remedy for all your period woes without second thoughts because several research studies prove its safety and efficacy. The best part is that it is now legal in several American states, so accessibility is hardly a concern if you live in one of these states. If you are in DC, you can check stores like mr nice guys dc to explore a broad range of products. Vapes and tinctures offer instant relief, while edibles keep the pain away for hours. You can even try a topical for local pain relief. Some hit and trial are enough to decide on your ideal dose and keep the woes at bay every month.
Maximize hydration
Experts recommend optimal hydration during the period to reduce the impact of bloating. Although drinking more water sounds counterintuitive, it can actually cut down the water retention and reduce discomfort and pain. Drinking hot water is an even better idea as it increases blood flow and relaxes the muscles. You can also drink herbal tea to double up on hydration and alleviate the cramps. Try variants like chamomile, fennel, ginger, and green tea, as they soothe your muscles and relax your nerves. They even set you up for better sleep, which takes you a step close to resolving your menstrual woes.
Exercise moderately
Surprisingly, moderate exercise can keep you pain-free and happy during your period. You must get out of bed and step out, no matter how challenging it feels. Once you start moving, the release of serotonin makes you feel good. Try low to medium-intensity aerobic activities for quick and effective results. If exercising with a group or in the gym does not appeal to you, take a brisk walk or go bicycling. The fresh air, sunlight, and greenery lift your mood as a bonus of working out in the open.
Ditch food culprits
Optimal nutrition keeps you at your healthiest best, and you need it, even more, to deal with menstrual woes. Fiber, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats are good to keep your energy on track. While eating right during your period is important, ditching food culprits is crucial as they can worsen your woes. Skip every food that may cause inflammation, bloating, water retention, and discomfort. These food culprits include sugary and salty foods, processed foods, unhealthy fat, caffeine, and alcohol.
Reduce stress
Most women experience stress during their period, and it makes cramps worse. You may feel on the edge most times, and a slight provocation can lead to an outburst. Embrace techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and music therapy to alleviate stress. Getting adequate sleep also helps lower anxiety levels during a challenging time. Ditch the gadgets, read a book, and turn off the lights sooner than later.
Menstrual woes can be challenging for most women, but you need not depend on painkillers, anxiety medication, or sleeping pills to deal with them. Cramps, anxiety, and insomnia are easy to handle naturally, provided you commit to these simple measures. Remember that your mind plays a crucial role in staying pain-free and relaxed during your period. Think positive and try these proven tricks to cruise through your period without the woes letting you down.