Period pain is a shared experience and can be an expected component of your extraordinary menstrual journey. A rite of passage that unites women across the globe! However, it does not have to be your normal.  To know how to stop period pain immediately read our article.

Sometimes, the pain arrives like an explosive thunderstorm, striking your core with powerful spasms that leave you breathless. Other times, it may manifest as a steady, persistent ache, a constant reminder of your incredible resilience. Discover effective ways to conquer period pain and reclaim your comfort. Join the Confident Hormone Club to learn how!

Causes of Period Pain 

Period pain occurs when the muscles in the womb tighten or contract. Mild contractions happen in the womb, but they are usually so gentle that most women don’t feel them. During your period, the muscles in the womb contract more strongly to help shed the womb lining as part of the menstrual process. This is often why women have diarrhea or loose stools when they are menstruating. 

When the womb muscles contract, they squeeze the blood vessels in the womb lining, which briefly stops the blood and oxygen supply to the womb. When deprived of oxygen, the tissues in the womb produce chemicals that trigger sensations of pain. At the same time, your body produces chemicals called prostaglandins alongside these pain-triggering chemicals. 

Prostaglandins make the womb muscles contract even more, which increases the level of pain. Some women experience more pain than others when they have more endometrial tissue or thickness, or endometrial tissue growing elsewhere, other than the uterine lining. 

In addition, women will experience more pain than others, when their liver is slow to metabolize or detox daily estrogens, leading to a build-up of estrogen in the body, which contributes to the swelling and thickness of endometrial tissue.   Lastly, women can experience more pain than others, because some women have a higher level of prostaglandins, which leads to more muscular contractions.

What period of pain is not average? What period of pain is standard?

• Normal period pain is usually uncomfortable but not excruciatingly painful.
• The pain can often be relieved or reduced through self-care measures such as applying heat, taking over-the-counter pain medications, or using relaxation techniques.
• Normal period pain typically lasts 1-3 days, although it can vary from person to person. The pain should subside as your menstrual flow decreases.
• While there may be some discomfort, normal period pain should not severely disrupt your ability to carry out your regular activities or cause you to miss school, work, or social engagements.
• Your ability to carry out your usual activities is not affected or hindered.

   How can period pain feel better naturally?

A study found that when 20 undergraduate students participated in a one-hour yoga program once a week for three months, they experienced reduced menstrual cramps and distress compared to 20 women who did not participate. Other ways to reduce period pain include: 

• Placing a heating pad or a hot water bottle on your lower abdomen can help relax the muscles and reduce pain.
• Engaging in light physical activity, such as walking or stretching, can increase blood flow and release endorphins, which are natural pain relievers.
• Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress and alleviate menstrual cramps.
• Certain herbs, such as ginger, cinnamon, and chamomile, have been traditionally used to relieve menstrual pain. Consult with a healthcare naturopathic for guidance on using herbal remedies.
• Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins may help reduce inflammation and ease period symptoms. Additionally, reducing your intake of caffeine, salt, and processed foods might be beneficial for some individuals.
• Drinking plenty of water can help prevent bloating and minimize water retention, which is common during menstruation.
• Getting enough sleep and rest during your period can support overall well-being and help manage pain.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can be effective in reducing menstrual cramps and pain. However, it’s important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.

Why are period cramps so bad all of a sudden?

Period cramps occur due to the uterus contracting to shed its lining. These contractions are stimulated by hormone-like substances called prostaglandins, which play a role in inflammation and pain. When prostaglandin levels are higher, cramps can become more intense and may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea. 

Typically, cramps diminish after the initial days of the period as prostaglandin levels decrease. Certain factors can exacerbate cramps, including the consumption of caffeine, salt, and alcohol. These substances can narrow blood vessels, leading to reduced oxygen flow to the uterus, thereby intensifying the discomfort.

Does chocolate help period cramps?

Chocolate is a rich source of magnesium, which aids in muscle relaxation and may inhibit the production of compounds that trigger cramps. Additionally, it is abundant in polyphenols, including flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory properties and serve as powerful antioxidants within the body. Moreover, it promotes the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that can enhance mood.

Does alcohol make cramps worse?

Yes, alcohol consumption can potentially worsen cramps during menstruation. Alcohol is known to have various effects on the body, including the ability to constrict blood vessels and potentially increase inflammation. These effects can interfere with blood flow to the uterus and exacerbate the intensity of menstrual cramps.

Consumption of alcohol can raise prostaglandin levels, thereby exacerbating period cramps. When prostaglandin levels are elevated, menstrual cramps can become more intense. 

Essential oil for menstrual cramps

If you’re interested in using essential oils for menstrual cramp relief, the most effective method is to massage the oils onto the affected area. To do this, add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a carrier oil. Apply a small amount of the mixture to your abdomen at least once a day for at least one week before your period begins

• Coconut oil 
• Avocado oil 
• Almond oil 
• Extra-virgin olive oil

Painful bowel movements during the period is not endometriosis

Experiencing painful bowel movements during your period, without it being caused by endometriosis, can occur due to other factors. During menstruation, the uterus contracts to shed its lining, and these contractions can affect nearby organs, including the bowel. Hormonal changes during this time can also impact bowel movements, leading to discomfort. 

It’s important to note that while painful bowel movements during your period can be concerning, they are not always indicative of endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. If you have persistent or severe symptoms, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate management.

What drinks help with period cramps?

You can try drinking chamomile, fennel, or ginger tea to help ease your menstrual cramps. These herbal teas are natural and simple remedies that can provide relief. Additionally, they have other benefits such as reducing stress and assisting with sleep problems like insomnia.

What is a period heating pad and how it works?

A heating pad is a pain-relieving device that uses warmth to alleviate discomfort. It is placed on the affected area to provide relief. Specifically for menstrual cramps, which commonly affect the lower abdomen or back, heating pads are often designed as belt-like structures to effectively target and alleviate this specific pain.

Tea for period cramps

Tea can be beneficial for period cramps due to its calming and soothing properties. Certain herbal teas, such as chamomile, peppermint, ginger, and raspberry leaf, are particularly known for their potential to relieve menstrual pain. It’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

• Chamomile tea helps relax the muscles and reduce inflammation, while peppermint tea acts as a natural painkiller and muscle relaxant. 
• Ginger tea can help alleviate cramps and reduce inflammation, and raspberry leaf tea is believed to support uterine health. 

Can you get cramps before your period? Vaginal pain before period

Yes, it is possible to experience cramps and vaginal pain before your period. Some women may experience premenstrual symptoms, including abdominal cramps, cramps a week before the period begins. Vaginal pain or discomfort can also occur as premenstrual symptoms. These symptoms can vary from person to person and may be influenced by individual hormonal fluctuations.