How To Overcome Menstrual Pain

Menstrual cramps could be very severe and unbearable in several women.This is not something you probably get used to,despite the fact that you have it on a monthly basis.Hence it becomes a very terrifying visitor for several pre menopausal women.This shouldn't necessarily be the case,as you could ensure you bleed seamlessly and not have pains during your periods.

What exactly causes the pain?

Menstrual pain is due to the contraction of the uterus as it tries to slough off the additional layers it has prepared for implantation of a possibly fertilized egg.So if your egg possibly got fertilized by a spermatozoa,then you are cramp free and you wont see your period ! and thats pregnancy or conception by the way !.  Once there is no fertilized egg,then there is bound to be sloughing off of those already endometrial tissue,and thats the blood you get to see.The excess contraction of the uterine muscle causes the pain which may range from mild to moderate in different women. 

How to avoid & cure mentrual pain

I will enumerate a number of steps to achieve a pain free menstruation and you can now say goodbye to the monthly terror after reading this article :

 >>> PREVENTIVE MEASURES        

A.Taking a healthy diet 

This includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as plenty of water. Attempt to keep track of how particular foods affect your period. Plenty of fiber is particularly useful in cleansing the body of excess estrogen (which can lead to heavier and more painful periods and cramps).

B. Avoid lotions, shampoos and soaps that contains xenoestrogens and phytoestrogens

Some new scientific evidence points to xenoestrogens and phytoestrogens actually causing menstrual cramps. Xenoestrogens are simply "foreign"estrogens that are not really estrogen but mimic estrogen. Xenoestrogens can be chemicals present in items used in every day life such as lotions, shampoos, and laundry detergent. Phytoestrogens are plant estrogen's that can be found in some herbs.Xenoestrogens and Phytoestrogens can cause Magnesium and Vitamin B deficiencies. A Magnesium deficiency can cause muscles to cramp.

c. Taking Vitamin supplements can be helpful

Some studies indicate that Vitamin E, thiamine and Omega-3 supplements may reduce menstrual cramps. Zinc and calcium have been found to reduce cramps, bloating and related PMS symptoms.Calcium and magnesium reduce muscle soreness, but must be taken for 2-3 months every day before producing a noticeable effect.

d. Some very severe menstrual pain may actually be a pointer to other diseases condition

Menstrual cramps can be caused by an underlying disorder such as endometriosis or fibroids, in which case the surgical removal of tissue may be required to help alleviate your symptoms.In case your pain has become too severe,or you bleed when its not your period(intermenstrual bleeding),your bleeding has become too heavy or you noticed other changes in your bleeding pattern,then you may have to see your doctor for further investigation.

e.Use your natural pain killer

Are you worried about over-use of traditional pain-killers, or they are not available, you may also wish to make use of the body's own pain-management mechanisms.

1.     Distract yourself from the pain. Distraction is one of the most powerful and readily available painkillers. So if you have intense cramps, do something that normally totally absorbs you, such as socializing with good friends, reading a book, playing a computer game, or spending time on facebook.

     Get regular exercise. Exercise increases your overall serotonin levels. Serotonin is the body's own painkiller, and also makes us feel happier.

      Sexual activities do help anything with the menstrual cycle. Try to get as much as possible. Orgasm releases oxytocin, which causes uterine contractions, which eases pain.Say goodbye to the myths of avoiding sexual feelings or actions once you are menstruating,as it could actually be of help.

>>> CURATIVE MEASURES

A. Using the right pain killer "appropriately"

Not every pain killer can cure menstrual pain.Only Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs), medicines such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin etc.), naproxen (Aleve), diclofenac,piroxicam or even aspirin are effective,and this is because the mechanism of action of NSAIDS involves the inhibition of the cyclooxygenase pathway that secrets prostaglandins; this are biological substances that causes uterine contraction. NSAIDS actually reduce menstrual blood flow not just the pain associated with menses. Acetaminophen (Paracetamol),while helpful for the pain, is not nearly as effective as the NSAIDs. Many women find that painkillers can decrease menstrual pain. If you can't tolerate ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, simple aspirin can help a lot. The effectiveness of NSAIDs builds up over time, so if your cramps are so severe that the painkillers don't do much,start taking ibuprofen every six hours up to a couple of days before you expect to get your period and continue until your cramps abate. If over-the-counter NSAIDs do not help, your doctor may prescribe a prescription NSAID such as mefenamic acid (Ponstel).

 

B.Using Contraceptive pills

Birth control pills contain hormones which prevent ovulation and reduce the severity of menstrual cramps.A well prescribed oral contraceptive pill may help prevent menstrual cramps. The same hormones can also be delivered through injection, a patch you wear on your skin or in a flexible ring you insert into your vagina.

Summarily the decision is up to you.This means you could go as far as taking pills if the pain is very severe and if you are someone that doesn't like pills then you could just settle for some of the highlighted preventive measures,whichever works fine for you or suits you best.

 .................."Wishing you good luck on your next menses"