What Causes Period Cramps?
Menstrual cramps will start to come on when the uterus contracts to shed its lining during your period each month.
The uterus lining produces a hormone-like substance called Prostaglandins which play a crucial role in the menstrual cycle by triggering strong contractions to help shed the uterine lining. These contractions can reduce blood flow to the uterus, causing the pain and cramping sensations associated with menstruation.
These cramps can range from mild to severe, typically in your lower abdomen, although they can also radiate to the lower back and thighs. The intensity of the cramps can vary for each person, from mild discomfort to debilitating pain, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as lower back pain, nausea, and headaches.
The higher the levels of prostaglandins, the more severe the cramps are likely to be. Women with higher prostaglandin levels may experience more intense pain.
Tips for Managing Period Cramps:
Fortunately, there are various strategies for managing menstrual pain and discomfort to help ease pain and discomfort and making your time of the month less daunting.
- Heat Therapy: Applying a heating pad or taking a warm bath can help relax the muscles, helping to alleviate cramps.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen can effectively reduce inflammation and relieve menstrual pain.
- Exercise: Some gentle physical activity, such as walking or yoga, can improve blood circulation and help ease cramps.
- Nutrition: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and magnesium, as well as staying well hydrated, can also be helpful to alleviate menstrual cramps. Learn more about amazing foods for your period here!
Can Menstrual Cups Help with Period Pain?
It might surprise you to learn that menstrual cups are actually an increasingly popular tool in alleviating cramps. Lots of women actually report that using a menstrual cup helps ease cramping, the cup encourages the pelvic muscles to relax more, helping to reduce tension and alleviate cramps.
Unlike tampons, cups collect blood without obstructing the blood flow, this natural flow can help prevent the buildup of pressure in the uterus and reduce the intensity of your cramps.
Our menstrual cups are designed to be soft and flexible and when worn correctly, will flex and conform to fit the shape of the vaginal canal which can help minimise the aggravation of sensitive pelvic muscles.
When Should You Be Concerned About Period Cramps?
Most women will experience some discomfort, from mild to moderate cramping to headaches and fatigue. But how can you tell whether your menstrual pain is normal or something to worry about?
While period cramps are a normal part of the menstrual cycle for many women, severe or persistent pain could indicate an underlying health issue. Conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or fibroids can cause more severe menstrual pain.
If you experience unusually intense or prolonged cramps, it is always safest to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any potential complications.
Sooooooo
Period cramps are a normal part of your monthly cycle and happen for many women. You can help manage the cramps and ease any muscle pain with heat therapy, over-the-counter pain relief, exercise, and nutrition to help ease sore muscles.
While mild to moderate cramps are usually typical and part of daily life for lots of women, severe or persistent pain could indicate an underlying health issue and should always be checked over by your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying causes.
Bonus Point
Many people report a considerable decrease in period cramps and discomfort when switching to reusable and sustainable period care. Wanna try? Get your first Ruby Cup